Kyoto Private Day Trip - Enjoy Your First-Time Visit to Kyoto!
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7h
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
This is a one-day tour of Kyoto's must-see sights, very popular in any season and safe for first-time travelers to Kyoto.
You will visit Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, Kiyomizu Temple, Nijo Castle, and Kinkakuji Temple, all of which are the main attractions of Kyoto! Select the "customizable tour " option and contact your guide 2 weeks in advance to create a fully personalized itinerary.
At Fushimi Inari, enjoy the mysterious 'Senbon-torii'. Kiyomizu-dera Temple offers a unique view of Kyoto from its stage, while Nijo Castle showcases gorgeous old architecture. Kinkaku-dera Temple, known for its golden building, is said to be the origin of the 'Golden Land'
・Enjoy a jam-packed itinerary without worrying about planning
・Mastered guide - our guide have a great guide experience and have deep knowledge of Kyoto
・Avoid language barriers—no worry about the language barrier!
・If you would like to request a limo service by which you can go around with private car, select "with limo" option
Available options
Customizable tour : 8-hour
We will send you questions regarding your request. Your guide will tailor the tour and contact you 2 weeks before tour
Customizable tour : 6-hour
We will send you questions regarding your request. Your guide will tailor the tour and contact you 2 weeks before tour
Pre-Planned: Taxi Preference
Indicate if you prefer using a taxi during the tour (fare not included, around 8,000~11,000yen). Your guide will be informed.
Pre-Planned Must-Sees: 7-hour
Travelers cannot contact the guide in advance. Please consult with your guide on the day of the tour for any minor changes.
Customizable tour : 7-hour
We will send you questions regarding your request. Your guide will tailor the tour and contact you 2 weeks before tour
Custom tour with vehicle - 7hr
We will send you questions regarding your request. Your guide will tailor the tour and contact you 2 weeks before tour<br/>The Alphard or similar
Customizable tour : 5-hour
We will send you questions regarding your request. Your guide will tailor the tour and contact you 2 weeks before tour
Customizable tour : 4-hour
We will send you questions regarding your request. Your guide will tailor the tour and contact you 2 weeks before tour
What's included
Private Tour
Tour Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Fushimi Inari-taisha shrine：
The shrine is famous for the fantastic scenery of the thousand torii gates that line the approach to the shrine. These torii gates were placed at the shrine to pray for the safe fulfillment of wishes and as a token of gratitude for the fulfillment of wishes. Visit the shrine, which has been widely worshipped not only by emperors, aristocrats, and warriors, but also by the general public.
2
Stop 2
Kiyomizudera：
It is a World Heritage temple that represents Kyoto. Kiyomizu-dera, one of the most visited temples in Japan, is said to have started with the enshrining of a statue of Kannon (the name of Guanyin in Japanese), known for her compassion. You can get a full view of the beautiful streets of Kyoto from the famed stage of Kiyomizu-dera that protrudes from the mountainside.
3
It is part of the approach to Kiyomizu Temple and is said to have been used by Toyotomi Hideyoshi's wife Kita no Mandokoro. Along with Ninen-zaka, it is designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings in Kyoto City. The winding stone pavement and stone steps are lined with old-fashioned buildings on both sides, and it is one of the focal points for sightseeing at Kiyomizu.
4
Gion / Hanami-Koji Street：
This place, popular with tourists, is the main street of the Gion area. There are many Kyoto-esque buildings both within and around the avenue, such as Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines, as well as teahouses, all lined up next to each other. If you are lucky, you may even spot geishas and maikos making their way in the back alleys!
5
Stop 5
Nijo Castle, the place of glory and demise of the Tokugawa Shogunate, is a valuable castle holding Japanese history. Here you can sit in the garden and enjoy the view, a small break after the busy tourist rush.
6
Stop 6
Also known as the Golden Pavillion. It is busy all year around, but this is a must-see!
What's not included
Transportation fees, Entrance fees, Lunch, and Other personal expenses
Standard tour：Estimated Costs of the Tour: 5,370 JPY per Traveler
Customizable tour：Entrance fee and other necessary expenses for the guide
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
18 reviews
5★
16
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
70 reviews
5★
67
4★
3
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
All transportation costs, entrance fees, food and drink costs, etc. incurred at the visited spots, will be borne by the customer.
Please wear comfortable clothing as you will be walking a lot.
If you choose the "Taxi Preference", all taxi fares incurred during the tour, including those for the guide, are also the responsibility of the guest.
For customizable tour option: Please note that if you do not respond to us, the tour will be conducted according to the standard itinerary.
For customizable tour option: The hotels that can be designated as meeting places must be in the city of Kyoto.
Meeting point
In front of Bus Ticket Center, JR Kyoto Station Central Exit
Important notes
・Please contact us using the messaging feature or WhatsApp message : +81 80-7475-5829.
・Please note that we do not answer calls. In case of any difficulties meeting up, kindly call your tour guide directly.
・All transportation costs, entrance fees, food and drink costs, etc. incurred at the visited spots, will be borne by the customer.
・If you do not arrive at the specified starting place after 60 minutes from the agreed meeting time, the tour will be considered canceled.
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
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Free cancellation available
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