Private Kyoto Nara Tour by Car with Deer, Buddha and More

Kyoto , Japan

Private Kyoto Nara Tour by Car with Deer, Buddha and More

Active

(24 reviews)

7h - 8h

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

This private car tour takes you comfortably from Kyoto to Nara—with no tour buses, no tight schedules, and no crowds.
Unlike group tours, everything is fully customizable. Want to spend more time taking photos? Traveling with kids? Stop at a cozy café? Skip a spot if it's too hot? Try a specific local lunch? Just let me know.

I’ll tailor the pace and itinerary to fit your interests, energy, and mood. As an independent private guide, I offer the kind of flexibility and personal care that big group tours simply can’t match. So don’t hold back on your requests—this day is all about you.

And I’m not just your guide for the day. If you need help during your entire stay in Japan—whether it’s restaurant advice, translation help, or travel tips—I’ll be there.

Let’s make your visit to Nara truly special—relaxed, memorable, and entirely your own.

Available options

Private Kyoto Nara Tour by Car with Deer, Buddha and More

Pickup included

+ Arashiyama&Golden Pavillion

Duration: 2 hours: This option adds Arashiyama and Kinkaku-ji to the original itinerary of Fushimi Inari, Nara Deer Park, and Tōdai-ji.<br/>Arashiyama & Golden Pavillion : This is an optional add-on to visit the Arashiyama bamboo forest and Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji temple).<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Air-conditioned vehicle

Fuel surcharge

Parking Fees

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

We will explore Japan’s most famous bamboo forest. If you would like this itinerary, please select the “+ Arashiyama and Golden Pavilion” option when making your reservation.

Stop 2

We will visit Golden Temple "Golden Pavilion". If you would like this itinerary, please select the “+ Arashiyama and Golden Pavilion” option when making your reservation.

Stop 3

Start the day at Kyoto’s famous Fushimi Inari Shrine, where thousands of red torii gates create one of the most photogenic spots in Japan.
Walk through the tunnels of gates while your local guide shares fun stories and hidden facts.
After soaking up the peaceful vibe, we’ll head out to Nara by private car.

Stop 4

Meet Nara’s most famous residents—friendly deer that roam freely in the park.
Feed them, take cute selfies, and enjoy some relaxed time under the trees.
This part of the tour is free time, so feel free to explore, take photos, or simply enjoy the peaceful vibe.
You can join the guide for lunch or choose a local restaurant on your own.
It’s a great moment to slow down and enjoy Nara at your own pace.

Stop 5

Visit Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks.
Step inside the world’s largest wooden building and come face to face with Japan’s Great Buddha, a giant bronze statue standing over 15 meters tall.
Your guide will explain the temple’s rich history, how it was built in the 8th century, and its spiritual meaning in Japanese Buddhism.
We’ll also show you some fun hidden details—like the famous “healing pillar”—and help you find the best angles for impressive photos.

Stop 6

Take a peaceful walk through a forest path lined with mossy stone lanterns to reach Kasuga Taisha Shrine, one of Nara’s most sacred places.
With its quiet atmosphere and thousands of lanterns, this shrine offers a glimpse into Japan’s ancient spiritual traditions.
Your guide will share the story behind the shrine, its connection to nature, and how it remains an active place of worship.
It’s also a great chance to take atmospheric photos surrounded by greenery and light.

What's not included

Breakfast

Lunch

Bottled water

Admission fees to temples and shrines are not included

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

22 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Flexible pickup available – We can meet you at your hotel, Kyoto Station, Fushimi Inari area, or other convenient locations. Please let us know your preference in advance.

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

Select option

Private Kyoto Nara Tour by Car with Deer, Buddha and More

Pickup included

+ Arashiyama&Golden Pavillion

Duration: 2 hours: This option adds Arashiyama and Kinkaku-ji to the original itinerary of Fushimi Inari, Nara Deer Park, and Tōdai-ji.
Arashiyama & Golden Pavillion : This is an optional add-on to visit the Arashiyama bamboo forest and Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji temple).
Pickup included

Select date

Travelers

Adults

Age 3-100

Childs

Age 0-0

Booking requirements: