Kyoto Private Customizable Day Trip With English chauffeur
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Kyoto Private Customizable Day Trip With English chauffeur

Active
(24 reviews)
8h - 10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

These tours go beyond sightseeing—they’re immersive experiences filled with history, culture, and hidden gems. I bring stories to life, making every destination more meaningful and engaging.

Safety and comfort are my top priorities. As a skilled driver and tour guide, I ensure smooth, stress-free journeys, allowing guests to relax and fully enjoy their adventure.

Every tour is personalized, creating unique and unforgettable moments. Whether it's exploring iconic landmarks or discovering off-the-beaten-path treasures, I make sure each trip is special, memorable, and one of a kind.

Available options

Kyoto Private Customizable Day Trip With English chauffeur

Pickup included

What's included

Pick-up and Drop-off to Hotel
English Speaking Driver
Air-conditioned vehicle
Fuel surcharge
Parking Fees

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Arashiyama, a picturesque district in Kyoto, is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, historic temples, and cultural heritage. The Bamboo Grove is a must-visit, offering a tranquil and otherworldly experience. Togetsukyo Bridge spans the Katsura River, providing stunning views, especially during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts magnificent Zen gardens. Monkey Park Iwatayama offers an uphill hike leading to wild macaques and panoramic city views. The Saga Scenic Railway (Romantic Train) takes passengers through a beautiful valley, particularly vibrant in autumn. For a more immersive experience, the Hozu River Boat Ride lets visitors explore the scenic river on a traditional wooden boat. With its blend of nature, history, and adventure, Arashiyama is a must-visit for those looking to experience Kyoto’s charm.

2
Stop 2

Kinkaku-ji, or the Golden Pavilion, is one of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks. This Zen temple is covered in brilliant gold leaf, creating a stunning reflection on the Kyoko-chi (Mirror Pond). The shimmering golden structure contrasts beautifully with the surrounding greenery and seasonal changes.Kinkaku-ji is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kyoto’s most visited temples. (Entry ticket 500 yen per person)

3
Stop 3

Kyoto Imperial Palace, located in Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, was the residence of Japan’s imperial family until 1869. The palace showcases elegant traditional architecture, beautifully landscaped gardens, and a rich historical legacy. Shishinden Hall, used for important ceremonies, features a grand design with intricate woodwork. Seiryoden once served as the emperor’s residence, while Oikeniwa Garden offers a serene pond with picturesque bridges. Although the imperial family moved to Tokyo, the palace remains a symbol of Japan’s heritage. Visitors can explore its grounds and admire its refined beauty, reflecting the elegance of the Heian period. This is optional

4
Stop 4

Nishiki Market, often called "Kyoto’s Kitchen," is a vibrant, narrow shopping street lined with over 100 shops and stalls. Stretching five blocks in central Kyoto, it has been a hub for fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies for over 400 years.

The market is famous for its wide variety of traditional Kyoto foods, including yuba (tofu skin), tsukemono (pickled vegetables), fresh seafood, wagashi (Japanese sweets), and matcha-flavored treats. Many stalls offer street food-style snacks, such as grilled skewers, tamagoyaki (Japanese omelet), and seafood on a stick.

5
Stop 5

Sanjūsangen-dō is a remarkable Buddhist temple in Kyoto, famous for its 1,001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. The temple’s name means "Hall of Thirty-Three Spaces", referring to the 33 sections between the wooden pillars in its long, 120-meter hall—the longest wooden structure in Japan.

Built in 1164, the temple was reconstructed in 1266 after a fire, maintaining its impressive architecture. The main statue, a massive, seated Thousand-Armed Kannon, is surrounded by 1,000 life-sized standing Kannon statues, each with delicate golden details and unique facial expressions. This is optional (Entry ticket 600 per person)

6
Stop 6

Ginkaku-ji, or the Silver Pavilion, is a Zen temple in Kyoto known for its elegant simplicity and stunning gardens. Built in 1482 by Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa as a retirement villa, it was later converted into a Buddhist temple. Unlike its golden counterpart, Kinkaku-ji, Ginkaku-ji was never covered in silver, but its weathered wooden exterior reflects the "Wabi-Sabi" aesthetic—finding beauty in imperfection.

The temple complex features the Hōjō (main hall) and the iconic Ginkaku (Silver Pavilion), which sits peacefully beside a pond. The meticulously designed Zen garden, "Sea of Silver Sand," features a striking cone-shaped sand mound called the "Moon-Viewing Platform."

A moss-covered strolling garden winds up a hillside, offering a scenic panoramic view of Kyoto. The temple is particularly beautiful in autumn when the maple trees turn vibrant shades of red and orange.(Entry ticket 500yen per person)

7
Stop 7

Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto’s most famous temples, known for its massive wooden stage that offers breathtaking views of the city, especially during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. Founded in 778, the temple is dedicated to Kannon, the goddess of mercy, and its name means “Pure Water Temple”, inspired by the Otowa Waterfall that flows beneath it.

Visitors can drink from the three streams of the waterfall, each said to grant health, success, or love. Another highlight is the Jishu Shrine, dedicated to love and matchmaking, where visitors try to walk between two stones with their eyes closed to test their romantic fortune. The temple's pagoda, gardens, and stunning architecture make it a must-visit in Kyoto.

Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka Streets
Just below Kiyomizu-dera, Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka are charming, historic streets lined with traditional wooden buildings, tea houses, souvenir shops, and cafes. These stone-paved slopes preserve Kyoto’s old-world charm,(entry fee 500)

8
Stop 8

Fushimi Inari Taisha is one of Japan’s most iconic shrines, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that form a mesmerizing path up Mount Inari. Dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, prosperity, and business, the shrine has been a place of worship since the 8th century. The fox (kitsune) statues throughout the shrine are believed to be Inari’s messengers, often depicted holding a key to a rice granary in their mouths.

The Senbon Torii ("Thousand Torii Gates") is the most famous section, where the bright red gates create a tunnel-like effect, making it a favorite spot for photographers. Each torii gate is donated by individuals or businesses as a prayer for success and good fortune.

What's not included

All food not included
Entry tickets
Any Special Ride or Cruise not Included in this Package
We will charge to Pick up from Osaka port and Kobe port

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
5 reviews
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Tripadvisor 5.0
19 reviews
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Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Kyoto

Kyoto, once the imperial capital of Japan, is a city rich in history, culture, and tradition. Known for its numerous classical Buddhist temples, as well as gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines, and traditional wooden houses, Kyoto offers a unique blend of ancient and modern Japan. The city is a must-visit for travelers seeking to experience the heart of Japanese heritage.

Top Attractions

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

A Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, Kinkaku-ji is one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks. The temple's top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf, reflecting beautifully on the surrounding pond.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours ¥400

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, Fushimi Inari Taisha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari, the god of rice. The trails leading up the mountain offer stunning views of Kyoto.

Religious 2-4 hours (depending on how far you hike) Free

Kiyomizu-dera

A historic wooden temple with a large veranda supported by massive wooden pillars, Kiyomizu-dera offers panoramic views of Kyoto. The temple is particularly famous for its spring and autumn foliage.

Religious 1-2 hours ¥400

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

A stunning grove of bamboo, Arashiyama is one of Kyoto's most famous natural attractions. The towering bamboo stalks create a surreal and peaceful atmosphere.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (Tenryu-ji Temple costs ¥500)

Gion

Kyoto's most famous geisha district, Gion is known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, teahouses, and the chance to spot geishas and maikos (apprentice geishas).

Cultural 1-2 hours (longer if dining or attending a cultural event) Free to explore (dining and cultural events can be expensive)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kaiseki Ryori

A traditional multi-course Japanese meal that emphasizes seasonality and presentation. Each dish is carefully prepared and artfully presented.

Dinner Often includes fish, meat, and vegetables, but vegetarian options are available.

Yudofu (Tofu Hot Pot)

A Kyoto specialty featuring tofu simmered in a light kombu (kelp) broth, often served with vegetables and condiments.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian-friendly, can be made vegan if broth is vegetable-based.

Matcha Desserts

Kyoto is famous for its high-quality matcha (green tea) powder, used in various desserts like ice cream, parfaits, and wagashi (traditional sweets).

Dessert Vegetarian and vegan options available.

Obanzai

Home-style Kyoto dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, often featuring vegetables, fish, and tofu.

Lunch/Dinner Can be adapted to various dietary preferences.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the mountains Cycling through the countryside Rafting on the Hozu River Onsen (hot spring) visits Tea ceremonies Scenic walks in gardens and parks Temple and shrine visits Traditional tea ceremonies

Best Time to Visit

March to May (Spring), October to November (Autumn)

Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and are the best times to visit for cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. These seasons also see the highest tourist volumes.

15°C to 25°C (Spring), 10°C to 20°C (Autumn) 59°F to 77°F (Spring), 50°F to 68°F (Autumn)

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Japanese
  • Widely spoken: English (limited)
  • English: Limited/Rare

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (UTC+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Kyoto is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to take basic precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
  • • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
  • • Use reputable tour operators and taxis

Getting there

By air
  • Kansai International Airport • 115 km from Kyoto
  • Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 40 km from Kyoto
By train

Kyoto Station

By bus

Kyoto Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most extensive and affordable way to get around Kyoto. They cover most areas of the city and are especially useful for reaching temples and shrines.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, INDRIVER

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Gion Higashiyama Arashiyama Downtown Kyoto (Shijo-Kawaramachi)

Day trips

Nara
40 km from Kyoto • Half day to full day

Nara is a historic city known for its ancient temples, shrines, and the famous Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer.

Uji
20 km from Kyoto • Half day

Uji is a small city known for its historic temples, beautiful riverside scenery, and high-quality matcha (green tea).

Kurama and Kibune
25 km from Kyoto • Full day

Kurama and Kibune are two neighboring villages in the mountains north of Kyoto, known for their hot springs, hiking trails, and scenic beauty.

Festivals

Gion Matsuri • July (main events on July 17th and 24th) Jidai Matsuri • October 22nd Aoi Matsuri • May 15th

Pro tips

  • Visit popular attractions like Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kinkaku-ji early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
  • Consider purchasing a Kyoto City Bus Pass or other transportation passes to save money on getting around the city.
  • Try local specialties like yudofu (tofu hot pot), matcha desserts, and obanzai (home-style Kyoto dishes).
  • Explore the city's many temples and shrines, but don't forget to take time to enjoy the natural beauty of Kyoto's gardens and parks.
  • Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for local customs and traditions.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 6
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