Private Tour Around Kyoto: Customizable Sightseeing
4.9
9 Ratings
Kyoto
Embark on a personalized adventure through Kyoto with a private driver. Create your dream itinerary or seek recommendations as you explore the city's captivating attractions.
Duration: 11 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Arashiyama - Visitors to Arashiyama will enjoy a mix of natural splendor and cultural depth:

Togetsukyo Bridge:
Famous bridge offering breathtaking views of mountains and rivers.
Bamboo Groves:
Peaceful walkways through swaying bamboo forests.
Okochi Sanso Villa:
Former actor’s home with beautifully landscaped gardens.
Monkey Park Iwatayama:
Natural environment home to over a hundred monkeys.
Tenryuji Temple:
Largest Zen temple featuring beautiful gardens.
Daikakuji Temple:
Historic Shingon sect temple with a pond and pagoda.
Saga Scenic Railway:
Relaxing train ride along the Hozu River.
Hozu River Boat Tour:
Two-hour boat ride through forested mountain areas.
Cormorant Fishing (Ukai):
Traditional fishing display on the Hozu River.
Arashiyama provides an unforgettable experience, blending nature, history, and cultural traditions in the heart of Kyoto.

  • Kinkakuji Temple - Kinkakuji, also called the Golden Pavilion, is a magnificent Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan. Famous for its glittering gold leaf exterior, the three-story building is set amidst lovely gardens and a reflective pond. Originally constructed in the 14th century, it features unique architectural styles on each floor. The temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, symbolizes the harmony between nature and human artistry, attracting visitors to admire its golden splendor.
  • Gion - Gion is Kyoto’s historic and iconic district, known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, cobblestone streets, and preserved tea houses. It is especially famous as a geisha district, where geiko (the local term for geisha) and maiko (apprentice geisha) can be seen in their elaborate traditional dress. The area comes alive in the evening with the glow of lanterns, offering a glimpse into Kyoto’s cultural past. Visitors can wander through narrow alleys, traditional teahouses, and experience the charm of Japan’s classical arts and entertainment in this atmospheric neighborhood.
  • Ginkakuji Temple - Ginkakuji, or the Silver Pavilion, is a Zen Buddhist temple located in the eastern part of Kyoto, Japan. Although it lacks the silver exterior originally intended, its minimalist beauty and peaceful surroundings make it a significant cultural landmark. The temple is encircled by meticulously designed gardens, including the famous “Sea of Silver Sand.” Built in the late 15th century, Ginkakuji embodies the aesthetics of the Higashiyama culture, offering visitors a serene escape and a look into Kyoto’s historical and artistic richness.
  • Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine - Fushimi Inari Taisha is a revered Shinto shrine situated in southern Kyoto, Japan. Known for its iconic Senbon Torii, or thousands of vermillion torii gates, the shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto deity of rice and prosperity. Visitors climb the wooded mountain trails, passing through the enchanting tunnel of torii gates. The main shrine complex at the summit provides panoramic views of Kyoto. Fushimi Inari Taisha is both a spiritual destination and a captivating cultural and natural experience, drawing millions of visitors each year.
  • Nishiki Market - Nishiki Market is a lively and historic food market in the heart of Kyoto, Japan. Often called “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” Nishiki Market is a bustling arcade lined with over a hundred stalls and shops, offering a wide variety of fresh and traditional Japanese foods, snacks, and local specialties. Visitors can explore the narrow covered market street, tasting a range of Kyoto’s culinary delights, including fresh seafood, pickles, Kyoto sweets, and other regional treats. Nishiki Market offers a sensory and cultural experience, making it a popular spot for food lovers and tourists alike.
  • Kyoto Imperial Palace - The Kyoto Imperial Palace, also known as the Kyoto Gosho, is the former residence of the Emperor of Japan. Located in the heart of Kyoto, the palace is set within a large park-like area surrounded by walls and gates. While the current buildings date back to the 19th century, the imperial residence has a rich history tied to the imperial family’s connection to Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital.

Visitors to the Kyoto Imperial Palace can admire the beautiful traditional Japanese architecture, stroll through the scenic gardens, and learn about the historical and cultural importance of the imperial family in Japan. Guided tours are available, offering insights into the palace’s history and its role in the country’s past. The expansive grounds and tranquil atmosphere make the Kyoto Imperial Palace a significant cultural site in Kyoto.

  • Nijo Castle - Nijo Castle, located in Kyoto, Japan, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its historical importance and architectural beauty. Built in the early 17th century, the castle features the exquisite Ninomaru Palace, known for its unique “nightingale floors” that chirp when walked upon, serving as a security measure. The castle’s grounds are surrounded by beautiful gardens, providing a peaceful retreat in the heart of Kyoto. Nijo Castle stands as a testament to Japan’s rich cultural heritage and offers visitors a glimpse into the country’s feudal past.
  • Kyoto Prefecture - 2 hours of the itinerary will be allocated for pick up and drop off. Depending on the location it could take more/less time
What's Included
  • highways/toll roads
  • In-vehicle air conditioning
  • Surcharges on fuel
  • Parking fees
What's Not Included
  • food and beverage
  • tickets to Kinkakuji and Ginkakuji (500 each)
  • Tickets to Nijo-jo castle 1300 yen
  • Pick up outside Kyoto (8000) yen
Additional Information

Embark on a personalized adventure through the captivating city of Kyoto with our customizable sightseeing tour featuring a private driver! Create your own dream itinerary or seek recommendations from our experienced driver as you explore the city’s most alluring attractions.

Whether you’re drawn to the serenity of ancient temples, the buzz of local markets, or the elegance of Japanese traditions, our tour ensures you get the most out of your day in Kyoto. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich history and cultural charm, all from the comfort of your private vehicle.

Worried about traffic delays? Relax! We provide extra time at no additional cost, ensuring you have the flexibility to enjoy each stop. Our private driver offers a hassle-free experience, allowing you to explore Kyoto at your own pace. Uncover the magic of Kyoto’s streets, where every turn reveals a new facet of Japan’s vibrant culture. Your personalized Kyoto adventure awaits!

Location
Arashiyama
Ukyo-ku,
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.9
(9 Ratings)
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Daydream04232896165
May 31, 2024
When Kyoto get Danushka as your private guide. - Great guide, patience, joyful and went his way to give us a great day! Really recommend him if you want to see the best of Kyoto.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Ovinim2024
May 29, 2024
10/10 experience - Traveling around Japan during the Golden Week holidays can be quite overwhelming but Mike ensured we saw all the best spots at the best time. He was very friendly, well informed, and kept everyone’s spirits high even when we were tired. Truly an unforgettable experience and would do it again! Also great music taste :)
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Dinalip2024
May 28, 2024
An enjoyable experience! - The driver was very friendly and nice and our entire group felt at ease and safe throughout the tour. He was very accommodating of our many requests as well! Thank you so much for the amazing experience!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Explorer14619636761
May 28, 2024
Highly recommended! - Had an amazing time at Kyoto thanks to Mike! Super friendly and always looking out to make it more accommodating. We were able to get around Kyoto quite comfortably at our own pace without any hassle. Me and my friends had a great time and they know all the good spots around too!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Kaveeshap2019
May 28, 2024
Amazing trip - The tour was very well planned. The guide was very communicative, helpful and outgoing and made sure we had a good experience. I would recommend this tour for anyone visiting.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Shannon_s
Jan 2, 2024
A great day trip to Kyoto - Mike was great! He spoke very good English and engaged in conversation whenever we had questions or wanted to small talk. We spoke prior to our day to give him all the places we’d like to visit. We got to see all our top “must see” places on our own and we didn’t feel rushed at all. Mike was always near by and picked us up at the location we chose within a few minutes. We had a 12 and 6 year old with us so having the service today made it great for them to get some downtime in the car between locations. Pick up and top off at our Osaka hotel was not a problem and made our day much easier. Booking this full day trip allowed us to see what we wanted in Kyoto stress free which made it so much more enjoyable!
Review provided by Viator
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July 2024
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