Full Day Tour of Kyoto with Private Transportation
Description
This exclusive experience, tailored with private transportation, allows you to explore Kyoto’s most iconic sites in comfort and style, ensuring a day of unforgettable memories. From historical Kyoto to the nature of Kyoto city all in one day. Save your time and see the most of Kyoto now!
Tour Options
Itinerary
One of the most iconic features of Kiyomizu-dera is its wooden stage, which juts out over the hillside, offering panoramic views of the cherry and maple trees below, as well as the city of Kyoto. The stage is supported by hundreds of wooden pillars, constructed without the use of nails—a testament to traditional Japanese craftsmanship. The temple complex also includes the Jishu Shrine, dedicated to the deity of love and matchmaking. Visitors can try to walk between two stones with their eyes closed—if successful, it is said they will find true love. Kiyomizu-dera is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is especially popular during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. The temple's architecture, natural surroundings, and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination in Japan.
Explore Kyoto’s timeless beauty by strolling through Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, two historic lanes leading to the iconic Yasaka Pagoda. These stone-paved streets, lined with traditional wooden shops and teahouses, offer a glimpse into Japan's Edo period. Capture the stunning view of the five-story Yasaka Pagoda towering above, especially enchanting during cherry blossom season or at sunset. Whether shopping for Kyoto crafts, enjoying local delicacies, or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere, a visit to Ninenzaka, Sannenzaka, and Yasaka Pagoda is a journey into the heart of Kyoto's rich cultural heritage.
Kinkaku-ji, or the Golden Pavilion, is one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks. This Zen Buddhist temple is famous for its stunning, gold-leaf-covered exterior, which reflects beautifully in the surrounding pond. Originally built as a retirement villa for shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu in the 14th century, it was later converted into a temple. The serene gardens surrounding Kinkaku-ji are meticulously designed, with pathways leading to tranquil spots offering perfect views of the temple and its reflection. Kinkaku-ji is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit for anyone exploring the cultural treasures of Kyoto.
Discover the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a serene escape in Kyoto where towering bamboo stalks create a mystical, otherworldly atmosphere. Just a short walk away, cross the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, which spans the Katsura River and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, especially vibrant in spring and autumn. Whether you’re strolling through the bamboo forest, renting a traditional rickshaw, or enjoying the riverside scenery, Arashiyama is a must-visit destination that blends natural beauty with cultural heritage. Perfect for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a tranquil retreat in Kyoto's lush landscapes.
Step into a world of color and tradition at the Kimono Forest in Arashiyama, Kyoto. This stunning outdoor art installation features over 600 cylindrical pillars wrapped in vibrant kimono fabrics, beautifully illuminated after dark. Located near the Randen Arashiyama Station, the Kimono Forest offers a unique blend of modern art and traditional Japanese culture. Each pillar showcases intricate patterns inspired by Kyoto’s rich textile heritage, creating a mesmerizing walkway that feels like stepping through a living kimono. Whether day or night, the Kimono Forest provides a picturesque and enchanting experience, perfect for capturing unforgettable memories in Kyoto.
A landmark in Arashiyama, Kyoto offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Spanning the Katsura River, this iconic wooden bridge is surrounded by lush bamboo groves, vibrant cherry blossoms in spring, and fiery autumn foliage, making it a picturesque destination year-round. As you stroll across the bridge, the serene waters below reflect the surrounding.
Explore the spiritual wonder of Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto’s most iconic Shinto shrine, renowned for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates that wind through the sacred Mount Inari. This mystical pathway leads visitors through serene forests, offering stunning views and a deep connection to Japan’s ancient traditions. Dedicated to Inari, the deity of rice and prosperity, the shrine is dotted with fox statues, believed to be Inari’s messengers. Whether you’re seeking spiritual renewal or a breathtaking hike, Fushimi Inari Shrine is a must-visit destination that encapsulates the essence of Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
The travelers will be picked up on their hotels/accommodations. If you cannot find your accommodation in the pickup column, feel free to put a note on where to pick you up as long as it is in Kyoto or Osaka areas. Please wait for the driver in hotel's lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time starts.
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- The remaining hours are allotted for travel time
- Some destinations in Kyoto have lots of staircase and not recommended for wheelchairs
Reviews(347)
It was an amazing trip. Our guide Akira was excellent. He brought pictures so we could learn more about the history of Kyoto. His attitude was very enjoyable and was able to adapt the tour to our needs. We learned that having a Japanese guide is much better as they provide more cultural information. Kyoto is a beautiful city that I will recommend to visit. And if you could have Akira as your guide much better.
Nozo was an incredible guide! He shared so many fascinating insights into Japanese culture and took us to authentic local spots we never would have found on our own. We definitely had an amazing time!"
This full day tour in Kyoto was the highlight of our Japan vacation! We had limited time in Kyoto and this tour with Darlene made the very most of our day. We saw and learned about all of the top sites. Most notably, ask for Darlene, she is cheerful, thoughtful and really just a great tour leader who knows how to make the day fun for everyone. We started thinking about we renting kimonos mid day and she made it happen without a second thought. She was our advocate all across the city and even managed to add a bonus trip to see some monkeys in their preserve. My family could go on and on about her superior service, maybe the best endorsement is that we invited her to our house if she is ever visiting our area. Thank you!!!
Really enjoyed the tour. Well paced and good locations to see. We really enjoyed Shaniece as our tour guide. She was very friendly, patient and knowledgeable. I would highly recommend her. We were picked up in Osaka at our hotel we was very nice.
Yuki was wonderful; our driver, Chin, did a great job, too! The tour was outstanding, we saw so much in one day (be prepared to walk and climb lots of stairs - but worth every step). We don't usually do private tours when we travel, but I'm so glad we booked this one. We never would've been able to make it to all of these sites on our own in one day. I have a bad knee and not in the best shape, but Yuki was great about making sure I was doing okay. It was extremely hot/humid for our visit, but there were lots of breaks to rest and stay hydrated.
Had a wonderful private tour of Kyoto with guide Caroline and driver Lee. Both were friendly, knowledgeable, and made sure we saw the best of the city without any hassle. Caroline’s insights into the history and culture added so much to the day, and Lee got us around smoothly and on time. Highly recommend this team for a private Kyoto tour!
Had a wonderful private tour of Kyoto with guide Caroline and driver Lee. Both were friendly, knowledgeable, and made sure we saw the best of the city without any hassle. Caroline’s insights into the history and culture added so much to the day, and Lee got us around smoothly and on time. Highly recommend this team for a private Kyoto tour!
This was the best private tour I’ve been on. Well worth the money. Christine, our tour guide, was excellent. She shared so much history about each of the places she took us and made sure we got the best photo opportunities! We told her we wanted to dress up in a kimono and she made it happen. We had a mother and daughter photo shoot which I was not expecting! She is great.
Had a great day in Kyoto, with pick up from Osaka. We saw all the major temples and shrines, as well as the bamboo forest. We also got a good suggestion for a classic hot pot lunch on a restaurant dating back to the 19th century. Nozo was a great guide. We did have to ensure to drink enough as it was hot in July. Glad we did it like this, instead of train, metro, bus.
Akira was our guide, he was excellent; he paid attention to every detail, bringing us water, a cooling vest, and towels to wipe away sweat—since we traveled in July and the heat was extreme. He took pictures of us at points of interest and used photos to explain the history of each place we visited. He was very attentive to our wishes regarding what we wanted to see and buy, and he was very communicative. If I could give a higher rating, I would. It was a day well spent and a great learning experience.
