Private Kyoto Nara Private Tour from Osaka

Kyoto , Japan

Private Kyoto Nara Private Tour from Osaka

Active

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

Join an in-depth one-day tour and discover a side of Kyoto that most visitors never see.

Led by experienced local drivers, we avoid peak crowds and schedule visits during the most beautiful times of the day — early mornings or evenings — so you can take the best photos. Along the way, we not only visit the famous must-see spots (such as Togetsukyo Bridge, Fushimi Inari Shrine, and Todai-ji Temple), but also take you to hidden viewpoints, long-established local snack shops, and traditional craft studios that only locals know.

With small group size, flexible routing, and thoughtful explanations, every stop has a story and every photo is worth keeping. At the end of the tour, we will also provide personalized restaurant and shopping recommendations, so your time in Kyoto is smooth and worry-free from beginning to end.

Book now and experience a different Kyoto.

Available options

Osaka pickup– Standard(Driver)

English speaking driver: Travel smoothly between sights with a professional driver. Ideal for independent travelers who want flexible support.<br/>Pickup included

Osaka pickup–Premium(Guide)

Premium (Driver + Guide): Upgrade to a premium experience with a dedicated guide who accompanies you into sites, shares stories, maximizes your visit.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

English Speaking Driver

Air-conditioned vehicle

Fuel surcharge

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

1. Interact With the Nara Deer

Highlight: Over 1,000 wild deer live freely in Nara Park, and they are believed to be “messengers of the gods.”

Experience:

Buy “deer crackers” (Shika Senbei) to feed the deer (around 200 yen).
Enjoy the adorable moment when the deer bow to you.
Be careful and protect your belongings to avoid deer nudging or grabbing your bags.

2. Visit UNESCO World Heritage Temples & Shrines

Todaiji Temple: One of the world’s largest wooden structures, home to the famous Great Buddha of Nara.
Kasuga Taisha Shrine:Known for its thousands of stone lanterns and bronze lanterns.
Kofukuji Temple: Its five-story pagoda is one of Nara’s most iconic symbols.

Stop 2

1. Worship & Prayer

Main Deity: Inari Okami (god of rice harvests, prosperity in business, and family safety)

What you can do:

Offer prayers at the main hall for career success and good fortune.
Purchase omamori (protective charms) or ema (wooden wishing plaques) and write down your wishes to hang inside the shrine.
Many visitors specifically come here to pray for business prosperity, exam success, and good luck in finances.

2. Walk Through the Thousand Torii Gates (Senbon Torii)

Highlight Experience: The endless rows of vermilion gates winding up the mountain is one of the most iconic views in Kyoto.

Suggested route:

For a quick visit, walk the first section (about 30 minutes) to take photos at the most popular spots.
If you have more time, you can hike to the top of Mt. Inari (round trip about 2 hours), where you’ll find smaller shrines and scenic viewpoints along the way.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is one of Kyoto’s most iconic natural sights, famous for its tall, perfectly aligned bamboo that creates a dream-like Japanese landscape.

1. Stroll Through the Bamboo Path

The main walking path stretches about 400 meters from Nonomiya Shrine to Okochi Sanso Garden.

Feel the soothing rustling of bamboo leaves in the wind and enjoy the refreshing atmosphere — it’s very calming.

2. Photo & Video Spot

The towering bamboo on both sides forms a natural tunnel of light and shadow, making this one of the most photogenic spots in Kyoto.

Wearing kimono or yukata makes your photos even more atmospheric.

Perfect for taking silhouette shots, backlit shots, and couple photos.

Stop 4

Arashiyama is one of Kyoto’s most iconic cultural and natural scenic areas. It is beautiful all year round — cherry blossoms in spring, maple leaves in autumn, the bamboo forest, and the view of Togetsukyo Bridge are all must-see highlights.

1. Walk the Bamboo Grove

Experience Arashiyama’s most famous bamboo path — the morning sunlight shining through the bamboo leaves is especially dreamy.
Great spot for photography, short videos, or a peaceful walk.

2. Visit Historic Shrines & Temples

Tenryu-ji Temple: UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its dry landscape garden and seasonal scenery.
Nonomiya Shrine: Known for good luck in love and studies, and its distinctive black wooden torii gate.

3. Stroll Across Togetsukyo Bridge

This landmark bridge spans the Katsura River and offers beautiful views of both the river and the mountains.
Perfect for cherry blossom viewing in spring and vibrant maple leaves in autumn.

What's not included

Lunch

Walking Guide. (Driver will remain with the vehicle)

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

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

Select option

Osaka pickup– Standard(Driver)

English speaking driver: Travel smoothly between sights with a professional driver. Ideal for independent travelers who want flexible support.
Pickup included

Osaka pickup–Premium(Guide)

Premium (Driver + Guide): Upgrade to a premium experience with a dedicated guide who accompanies you into sites, shares stories, maximizes your visit.
Pickup included

Select date

Travelers

Adults

Age 13-80

Childs

Age 3-12

Infants

Age 0-2

Booking requirements: