Kyoto Private & Customizable Tour with English-Speaking Driver
Active
8h - 10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
At Kyosaka Tours, we go beyond basic transportation — we deliver a personalized, comfortable, and culturally enriching travel experience. What sets us apart is our commitment to stress-free travel with friendly, English-speaking drivers who understand the needs of international visitors.
We offer flexible itineraries, door-to-door service, and clean, well-maintained vehicles to ensure your comfort. Whether you want to explore hidden gems, take the scenic route, or adjust plans on the go — we’re here to make it happen.
Available options
Kyoto Highlights - Private & Customizable Tour (English Speaking)
Locations / Guide service: If you need, you can request a guide for your tour. (Should be informed earlier)
<br/>Duration: 10 hours<br/>Customizable : You can customize the itinerary and the route as preferred. <br/>luxury car<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Parking fees and tolls
PrivatePrivate and fully air-conditioned vehicle (car or van depending on group size)
English-speaking driver with basic assistance (route guidance, attraction info, and local tips)
Extended Area Pick-Up/Drop-Off (Osaka, Nara, Kobe Port) — Offered as an additional paid service.
Fuel surcharge
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Stroll through towering bamboo stalks in a peaceful forest setting, a truly magical and serene experience.
2
Stop 2
Admire the stunning Zen temple covered in gold leaf, reflected beautifully in its surrounding pond.
3
Stop 3
Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” this lively market street is about 400 meters long and lined with over 100 shops and stalls.
Highlights:
Local delicacies: pickles, tofu, matcha sweets, fresh seafood, wagyu skewers, and seasonal produce.
Souvenirs like Kyoto-style knives, chopsticks, and handcrafted goods.
Family-run stalls with food samples and traditional snacks.
4
Stop 4
Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka are two beautifully preserved stone-paved streets in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district. Lined with traditional wooden townhouses, shops, and tea houses, they lead up to the famous Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Known for their historic charm, local snacks, and souvenir shops, these scenic slopes offer one of the most authentic old Kyoto experiences.
5
Stop 5
Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto’s most famous temples, known for its grand wooden stage overlooking the city. Founded in 778, it offers stunning views, seasonal beauty, and the sacred Otowa Waterfall, where visitors drink for health, success, and longevity.
6
Stop 6
Fushimi Inari-taisha is Kyoto’s most important Shinto shrine, dedicated to Inari, the god of rice and prosperity. It is world-famous for its thousands of bright red torii gates forming paths up Mount Inari, creating one of Japan’s most iconic sights. Visitors can hike through the gates, explore smaller shrines along the way, and enjoy panoramic views over Kyoto.
7
Stop 7
Sanjūsangendō is a historic Buddhist temple built in 1164, famous for its long wooden hall stretching 120 meters. Inside, it houses 1,001 life-sized statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, creating one of the most breathtaking sights in Japan. The temple is also known for its annual archery competitions held in January.
What's not included
Admission fee
Entrance fee
Government Fees
unless pre-arranged
Reviews breakdown
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Tripadvisor
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
