Kyoto UNESCO World Heritage Site Private Tour

Kyoto , Japan

Kyoto UNESCO World Heritage Site Private Tour

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(13 reviews)

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About this experience

Discover Kyoto’s UNESCO Treasures with Ease!
Explore Kyoto’s UNESCO sites stress-free on this private one-day tour! With a personal driver and guide, travel seamlessly between landmarks while learning about Kyoto’s rich history. Your guide also doubles as a photographer, capturing stunning shots at Instagram-worthy spots.

Visit must-see sites like Nijo Castle, Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion), Ryoanji or Ninnaji Temple, Tenryuji, Fushimi Inari Shrine, and Kiyomizu-dera. Enjoy a local lunch at a handpicked restaurant—just sit back and savor the experience!

Perfect for first-time visitors, families, couples, and solo travelers, this all-inclusive tour ensures a hassle-free Kyoto adventure. Hotel pickup, flexible dietary options, and a comfortable itinerary make it ideal for everyone. Immerse yourself in Kyoto’s beauty with ease and comfort!

Available options

Kyoto UNESCO World Heritage Site Private Tour

Pickup included

What's included

9-hour Private Chauffeur Service with a Licensed Japanese Driver

Lunch （Vegetarian, Vegan and Gluten-free options are available with advanced request.）

Hotel Pick-up & Drop-off Please provide your pick-up place at least 24 hours before the tour starts.

Entrance fees of all venues we will visit

Tour photos Photos during the tour would be shared after the tour through email.

9 Hours of local guide Suggest suitable itinerary based on your interests and weather.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

After introductions and a quick overview of the day’s itinerary, your guide will ensure all preferences and food restrictions are addressed. Then, hop into a comfortable private car and head to Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the samurai era, marvel at the intricate architecture, and stroll through the serene gardens once graced by Japan’s shoguns.

Stop 2

Continue your journey with a visit to Kinkakuji, the famed Golden Pavilion, where you can capture stunning reflections on its tranquil pond.

Kinkakiuji is registered as World Heritage since 1994.
Its original name is called " Rokuon-ji". This was rebuilt two times in 1694 and 1950.
Kinkaku-ji is made from 3 floors. The second and third floor is covered with gold which is why this temple is called "Kinkaku-ji".
Each floor has a name and was constructed differently using different traditional structure.

Stop 3

Next, experience the meditative stillness of Ryoanji’s renowned rock garden, a masterpiece of Zen philosophy.

Next, experience the meditative stillness of Ryoanji’s renowned rock garden, a masterpiece of Zen philosophy. Stroll through the enchanting bamboo groves and discover the beauty of Tenryuji, a Zen temple featuring a world-renowned garden. Along the way, your guide will share fascinating insights into Japan’s spiritual and artistic heritage.

Savor a delicious, locally recommended lunch while engaging in friendly conversation.

Vegetarian, Vegan and Gluten-free options are available with advanced request.

Stop 6

In 1994, it was registered as one of the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Sites “Cultural Properties of Ancient Kyoto
National treasures and important cultural properties stand in the precincts of the temple, including the main hall, which is the origin of the phrase “jumping off the stage of Kiyomizu,” and the three-story pagoda

Stop 7

Conclude your adventure at Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its endless vermilion torii gates, perfect for capturing stunning photos.

It is said that there are about 30,000 Inari shrines throughout Japan, and they are popularly known as “Inari-san. Inari shrines are believed by people of all ages and both men and women to be the most popular shrines in Japan. The main shrine of the Inari shrines is the Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto. The shrine is famous for its vermilion “Senbon-torii,” a line of so many torii that there is no end in sight!

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

13 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

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.