Kyoto Private Tour – Nationally Licensed Guide & Private Car

Kyoto , Japan

Kyoto Private Tour – Nationally Licensed Guide & Private Car

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About this experience

Discover the Timeless Beauty of Kyoto on a Private Day Tour

Experience Kyoto’s elegance and spirit on a private, customized day tour designed for comfort and discovery. Explore Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks—Nijo Castle, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kinkaku-ji, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and Fushimi Inari Taisha—while learning the stories behind their timeless charm.

Your nationally licensed guide will ensure a smooth, safe, and personalized journey, traveling in comfort with a private car from start to finish.

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Highlights:
-Explore the shogun’s historic residence.
-Stroll through the enchanting bamboo grove.
-Admire the shining Golden Pavilion.
-Walk through thousands of vermilion torii gates.
-Trusted as a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (Cert. No. EN00703).
-Comfortable travel with a private car and 10+ years professional driving.

Available options

For groups of up to five

Pickup included

For groups of up to nine

Jumbo Vehicle<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Nationally Licensed English Speaking Guide

Nationally Licensed Domestic Travel Service Supervisor

Customize the Itinerary

Certified Domestic Itinerary Manager (Quasi-National)

Nationally Licensed in Japanese History (Level 2 / 5)

Private Car with professional local driver

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Nijo Castle – Echoes of the Shogun’s Power

Step inside the magnificent Nijo Castle, a grand testament to Japan’s feudal era and the refined taste of the Tokugawa shoguns. Walk through elegant corridors where the “nightingale floors” chirp softly underfoot, designed to protect against intruders. Admire intricate wall paintings, ornate gates, and serene gardens that reflect both power and beauty in perfect balance.

Stop 2

Arashiyama – Where Nature and Tradition Meet

Escape into the natural beauty of Arashiyama, a scenic district on Kyoto’s western edge. Walk through the enchanting Bamboo Grove, cross the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, and visit Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In each season, Arashiyama offers a different charm—from cherry blossoms to autumn foliage. Enjoy a rickshaw ride or relax by the riverside for a truly serene experience.

Stop 3

Kinkaku-ji – The Golden Pavilion’s Timeless Brilliance

Admire the stunning Golden Pavilion shimmering on the surface of its tranquil pond. Once a shogun’s villa, Kinkaku-ji captures the essence of harmony between architecture and nature. Stroll through its beautifully landscaped gardens, where each view feels like a living painting. Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to see how the golden reflections change with the light.

Stop 4

Fushimi Inari Taisha – The Path of a Thousand Torii Gates

Enter a world of vibrant red gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha, one of Japan’s most iconic shrines. Dedicated to the god of prosperity and rice, this sacred mountain trail leads you through tunnels of torii gates that seem endless. Along the way, discover hidden shrines, fox statues, and panoramic views of Kyoto. Visit at sunrise or sunset for a magical and less crowded experience.

What's not included

Personal expenses

Lunch

Baby seats

Tips (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

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.