Kyoto Private Day Tour with English Speaking Driver

Kyoto , Japan

Kyoto Private Day Tour with English Speaking Driver

Active

(84 reviews)

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

Journey onto this 1 Day Private Tour of Kyoto by vehicle. Accompanied by a friendly, English speaking driver, experience the historical city boasting a collection of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. See stunning landmarks such as the Kiyomizudera, Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion), Fushimi Inari Shrine, Arashiyama (Bamboo Forest) and the timeless Gion Area. This is the Japan you've always dreamed about.

Highlights
• Private Day Tour - Fully Customizable
• Experience the numerous, must-see, historically significant temples and shrines of Kyoto
• Stroll around the magnificent Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, a picture perfect spot
• Enjoy a traditional Kyoto style lunch and experience the atmospheric Gion area
• Feel safe and sound with our modern vehicles and expert drivers

NOTE: This is a suggested itinerary - you are welcome to customize it

Available options

MPV (Group of 1-5)

Group of 1-5 pax per vehicle<br/>Pickup included

Van (Group of 6-9 pax)

Group of 6-9 pax per vehicle<br/>Pickup included

What's included

English Speaking Driver (who can offer travel advise/assistance and manage the itinerary)

Petrol/Gas

WiFi Hotspot Router (In Vehicle, when available)

Modern & Clean Vehicle

Aircon

Highway Tolls

Meet & Greet

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Optional for customize

Stop 2

Optional for customize

Stop 3

Optional for customize

Stop 4

Optional for customize

What's not included

Gratuities

Food and drinks

Tour guide service (Can be requested upon booking, please let us know)

Attraction tickets- Prices depends on the attraction, estimated costs around 1,500-2,000¥/person

Surcharges if the pick up is outside Kyoto (5000-30,000¥ depends on the location)

Overtime (the service is for 10 hours, anytime beyond 10 hours will be overtime 2,500¥/30 mins)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

54 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.6

30 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Service animals allowed

Specialized infant seats are available

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

This trip is for 10 hours duration (from hotel pick-up to drop-off). Any additional time will be charged as overtime at JPY 5,000 per hour, payable directly to the driver on the day of the trip

The operator can only offer 1 child seat per group / vehicle

Please note: The operator will contact guest via WhatsApp 1 day prior the trip

This is a Private Car Rental / Hire Service with additional services of pairing you with an English speaking driver-escort who can offer travel advice.

Our Chauffeurs- All our drivers are licensed professionals and speak both English and Japanese. With over 30 years of experience on Japan’s roads, they will ensure your journey is safe, convenient and enjoyable.

Our Fleet-All our vehicles are clean, modern and highly maintained. They are equipped with free Wifi routers so you can stay connected on the go!

Important notes

Important Info:

This is a Private Car Rental / Hire Service with additional services of pairing you with an English speaking driver-escort who can offer travel advice.

• Email Address: bookings@asokotrip.com
• WhatsApp (RECOMMENDED): +63956 902 5256

-Our tours operate rain or shine and will only be cancelled in the event of unsafe weather conditions, as determined by our team. Guests have the prerogative to cancel their tour up to 24 hours in advance, in accordance with our cancellation policy.
- This trip is a 10-hour duration (from hotel pick-up to drop-off). Any additional time will be charged as overtime at JPY 2,500 per 30 minutes, payable directly to the driver on the day of the trip
-The operator can only offer 1 child seat per group / vehicle
- Drop off location change is permitted, as long as it's in allowed areas, at no extra cost. Please let driver know on the day.
-This booking is applicable for pick-up / drop-off from Kyoto area. Kobe, Osaka, Nara and other area outside Kyoto will have an extra charge from 8,000JPY-14,000JPY payable to the driver, depending on location.
-PLEASE NOTE: The operator will contact guest via WhatsApp 1 day prior the trip (4-5PM JPST)
- Food and drinks are allowed in the car with the following conditions.

a. If vehicle is unusually dirty, there will be a cleaning fee charged.

b. No alcohol allowed in the car.

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.