Kyoto Highlights Private Car Day Tour with English Speaking Guide

Kyoto , Japan

Kyoto Highlights Private Car Day Tour with English Speaking Guide

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(2 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

Discover the charm of Kyoto on a personalized private tour designed just for you. This full-day experience allows you to explore iconic landmarks or hidden gems at your own pace, with an English-speaking driver ready to cater to your preferences. Enjoy a stress-free day with convenient hotel pickup from Kyoto, Osaka, or Nara, in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. Whether you're interested in UNESCO World Heritage sites or local neighborhoods, this tour gives you the flexibility to create your perfect itinerary.

- Private tour tailored to your specific interests and needs
- Flexible itinerary to see Kyoto your way, with no rush
- Hassle-free pickup and drop-off at your hotel or accommodation
- Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle for up to 10 hours.

Available options

Kyoto Highlights Private Day Tour with English speaking Guide

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Air-conditioned vehicle

Complimentary pick up and drop off is available from 3 cities: Kyoto, Osaka and Nara.

Parking Fees

Detailed itinerary

Discover the natural beauty and cultural charm of Arashiyama, one of Kyoto’s most scenic districts. Stroll through the famous Bamboo Grove, visit the peaceful Tenryu-ji Temple, and enjoy panoramic views from the Togetsukyo Bridge. You can also explore hidden gardens, meet friendly monkeys at the Iwatayama Monkey Park, or take a relaxing walk along the Katsura River. Arashiyama offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and traditional Kyoto atmosphere — ideal for photography, slow travel, and quiet reflection.

Stop 2

Step into one of Kyoto’s most iconic sights — the stunning Kinkaku-ji, or Golden Pavilion. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its top two floors completely covered in shimmering gold leaf, beautifully reflected in the surrounding pond. Stroll through the peaceful Zen garden, admire the mirror-like waters, and learn the fascinating history of this 14th-century temple once used as a shogun’s retirement villa. It’s a breathtaking spot for photos, reflection, and soaking in the essence of traditional Japanese beauty.

Stop 3

Step into Kyoto’s vibrant culinary heart at Nishiki Market, a lively, covered street packed with over 100 shops and stalls. Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” this historic market offers everything from fresh seafood and local produce to traditional snacks, sweets, and handmade kitchenware. Sample local specialties like yuba (tofu skin), pickled vegetables, grilled mochi, and matcha treats as your guide introduces you to the flavors and traditions of Kyoto’s food culture. It’s a perfect spot for adventurous eaters, cultural explorers, and anyone who loves a truly local experience.

Stop 4

Gion offers a fun and educational walk through Kyoto’s traditional past. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the narrow streets, old-style wooden houses, and the chance to spot a real-life maiko (apprentice geisha) in traditional dress. Your guide will share stories that bring Kyoto’s history to life in a way that’s engaging for all ages — and there are plenty of snack stops along the way, including sweet shops with mochi and matcha treats.

Stop 5

Step into timeless elegance at the iconic Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO site offering panoramic views of Kyoto from its grand wooden terrace. Surrounded by carefully maintained temple grounds, gardens, and traditional architecture, this visit invites you to immerse yourself in centuries of spiritual and aesthetic tradition. Ideal for travelers seeking a refined and culturally rich experience, with personalized insights from your private guide.

Stop 6

Explore Kyoto’s most iconic and photogenic site — Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of vibrant vermilion torii gates that form winding paths up Mount Inari. This sacred Shinto shrine is dedicated to Inari, the god of rice and prosperity, and is guarded by statues of foxes, his messengers. Guests can walk as far as they like up the peaceful forest trail, enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto, and experience a deeply spiritual atmosphere unique to Japan. A must-see for first-time visitors and photographers alike.

What's not included

WiFi on board

Meals

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

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.