Kyoto , Japan

Private Guided Day Tour of Kyoto

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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

Explore Kyoto with Your Private English-Speaking Driver-Guide! Experience Kyoto in comfort with our private tour. Your English-speaking driver will also serve as your guide, ensuring a seamless and enriching journey. Customizable Itinerary for Your Perfect Day
Choose your preferred destinations and enjoy convenient pick-up and drop-off at your desired locations. Our private tour offers ultimate flexibility tailored to your interests. Stress-Free Travel Without the Crowds. Avoid the hassle of crowded public transportation and enjoy a stress-free sightseeing experience in comfort. Visit Kyoto's Highlights in One Day Effortlessly visit top attractions like Kiyomizu-dera, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kinkaku-ji, and Nijo Castle in a single day. Let us guide you through Kyoto's must-see sights.

Available options

Customizable Tour: 7-hours

Duration: 7 hours<br/>Pickup included

Entrance fee included

Pay admission fees to the places you visit in advance.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Customizable itinerary

Hotel meet-up within designated area in Kyoto

Car Rental Fee

A private English speaking tour guide who serves as a driver

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

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.

Stop 2

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.

Stop 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.

Stop 4

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.

Stop 5

Kinkaku-ji, or the Golden Pavilion, is a famous Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto. Covered in gold leaf and surrounded by a beautiful pond and gardens, it offers stunning views and serene surroundings. Built in the 14th century, it remains a must-visit landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Experience the enchanting beauty and peaceful atmosphere that make Kinkaku-ji a true gem of Japan.

What's not included

Food and drinks

The necessary expenses for the guide(should be discussed directly with your tour guide)

Entrance Fee (Admission fees vary depending on the spot selected. ※Around ¥2,000 - ¥5,000)

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The hotels that can be designated as meeting places must be in the city of Kyoto.

We will be sent a Google form to request their requirements once the booking has been completed.Customers booking the customisation option will be sent a Google form to request their requirements once the booking has been completed.

Please note that if you do not respond to us, the tour will be conducted according to the standard itinerary.

This tour is not wheelchair accessible.

Meeting point

MK Taxi VIP Station is in front of the Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit. Cross the main road after you come out from the Hachijo Exit. The guide will welcome you with a board saying 'Travel OTOMO'.

Important notes

・We ask for customer information and preferences once your booking has been confirmed.
・Your guide will contact you two weeks before the tour to discuss the itinerary based on the information you provided.
・Please note that if you do not respond to us, the tour will be conducted according to the standard itinerary.
・The itinerary and meeting point provided are based on the standard itinerary and are provided for your reference only.
・If you do not arrive at the specified starting place after 60 minutes from the agreed meeting time, the tour will be considered canceled.
・If the weather is bad on the day, there is a possibility that the means of transportation, destinations, and routes may be changed.
・Some spots only accept cash as a payment method, so please have cash ready.

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.