Tours/Kyoto/Kyoto tour with English Speaking Chauffeur
Viator · Private tour

Kyoto tour with English Speaking Chauffeur

4.9(29)Kyoto1 hour
VIATOR4.4(5)TRIPADVISOR5.0(24)

Description

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!

Tour Options

Private Tour Around Kyoto with English Speaking Driver (No Guide)
  • Pickup included
Mini Van
  • Mini Van Pickup included

Itinerary

90 min

Customers at Arashiyama will experience a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness: Togetsukyo Bridge: Iconic bridge with stunning mountain and river views. Bamboo Groves: Serene paths through swaying bamboo groves. Okochi Sanso Villa: Former actor's residence with landscaped gardens. Monkey Park Iwatayama: Natural habitat for over a hundred monkeys. Tenryuji Temple: Largest Zen temple with attractive gardens. Daikakuji Temple: Historical Shingon sect temple with a pond and pagoda. Saga Scenic Railway: Leisurely train journey along the Hozu River. Hozu River Boat Tour: Two-hour boat tour through forested mountainsides. Cormorant Fishing (Ukai): Traditional fishing spectacle on the Hozu River. Arashiyama offers a memorable experience, combining nature, history, and cultural traditions in the heart of Kyoto.

Admission not included60 min

Kinkakuji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a stunning Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan. Renowned for its dazzling gold leaf exterior, the three-story structure sits amidst beautiful gardens and a reflective pond. Originally built in the 14th century, it showcases distinct architectural styles on each floor. The temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a symbol of harmony between nature and human craftsmanship, drawing visitors to marvel at its golden beauty.

60 min

Gion is Kyoto's historic and iconic district, renowned for its traditional wooden machiya houses, cobblestone streets, and preserved tea houses. It is particularly famous for being a geisha district, where geiko (the local term for geisha) and maiko (apprentice geisha) can be spotted in their elaborate traditional attire. The area comes to life in the evening with the glow of lanterns, offering a glimpse into Kyoto's cultural past. Visitors can explore narrow alleys, traditional teahouses, and experience the allure of Japan's classical arts and entertainment in this atmospheric neighborhood.

Admission not included60 min

Ginkakuji, or the Silver Pavilion, is a Zen Buddhist temple situated in the eastern part of Kyoto, Japan. Although it doesn't have a silver exterior as initially intended, its minimalist beauty and serene surroundings make it a notable cultural landmark. The temple is surrounded by meticulously designed gardens, including the well-known "Sea of Silver Sand." Constructed in the late 15th century, Ginkakuji reflects the aesthetics of the Higashiyama culture, offering visitors a tranquil escape and a glimpse into the historical and artistic richness of Kyoto.

60 min

Fushimi Inari Taisha is a revered Shinto shrine located in southern Kyoto, Japan. Renowned for its iconic Senbon Torii, or thousands of vermillion torii gates, the shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice and prosperity. Visitors ascend the wooded mountain trails, passing through the mesmerizing tunnel of torii gates. The main shrine complex at the summit offers panoramic views of Kyoto. Fushimi Inari Taisha is not only a spiritual destination but also a captivating cultural and natural experience, attracting millions of visitors each year.

90 min

Nishiki Market is a vibrant and historic food market located in the heart of Kyoto, Japan. Often referred to as "Kyoto's Kitchen," Nishiki Market is a bustling arcade lined with over a hundred stalls and shops, offering a wide array of fresh and traditional Japanese foods, snacks, and local specialties. Visitors can explore the narrow covered market street, sampling a variety of Kyoto's culinary delights, including fresh seafood, pickles, Kyoto sweets, and other regional delights. Nishiki Market provides a sensory and cultural experience, making it a popular destination for food enthusiasts and tourists alike.

60 min

The Kyoto Imperial Palace, also known as the Kyoto Gosho, is the former ruling palace of the Emperor of Japan. Situated in the heart of Kyoto, the palace is set within a large park-like area surrounded by walls and gates. While the current structures date back to the 19th century, the imperial residence has a rich history rooted in the imperial family's connection to Kyoto, Japan's ancient capital. Visitors to the Kyoto Imperial Palace can explore the beautiful traditional Japanese architecture, stroll through the scenic gardens, and learn about the historical and cultural significance of the imperial family in Japan. Guided tours are available, providing insights into the palace's history and the role it played in the country's past. The expansive grounds and serene atmosphere make the Kyoto Imperial Palace a notable cultural site in Kyoto.

Admission not included60 min

Nijo Castle, located in Kyoto, Japan, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its historical significance and architectural beauty. Built in the early 17th century, the castle features the exquisite Ninomaru Palace, known for its unique "nightingale floors" that produce a chirping sound when walked upon, serving as a security measure. The castle's grounds are surrounded by beautiful gardens, providing a tranquil 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.

120 min

2 hours of the itinerary will be allocated for pick up and drop off. Depending on the location it could take more/less time

Highlights

highways/toll roads
Air-conditioned vehicle
Fuel surcharge
Parking Fees

What's included

Included
highways/toll roads
Air-conditioned vehicle
Fuel surcharge
Parking Fees
Not included
food and beverage
tickets to Kinkakuji and Ginkakuji (500 each)
Tickets to Nijo-jo castle 1300 yen
Pick-up from Osaka (15000) yen
Pick-up from Kobe (25000) Yen
Kinkakuji and Ginkakuji
Nijo-jo castle

Traveller Ratings

4.9
29 reviews
5
27
4
1
3
0
2
1
1
0

Important Information

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Reviews(29)

D
dennisaV4696MJ
August 23, 2025
Excellent driver in Kyoto.

Good driver and informative. He answered all of our questions. Good English skills. He planned our sights around what we were interested in seeing.

G
Guochun L
August 15, 2025
Our family had the tour , all of us enjoyed the convenience

We had a great time , thanks a lot for the convenience and flexibility! And the introductions are good too. Although the weather was super hot, he tuned on the AC to help us to cool down, that was very considerate.

D
dennismM1434MH
July 25, 2025

Dhanu was a great driver. He was prompt and got us to the places that we wanted to go to and was receptive to all our modifications to the schedule and destination. We wouldn’t have been able to cover the same amount of ground without a driver. Well worth the money!

A
Alejandra_G
July 6, 2025
We were able to meet the...

We were able to see the most important places in Kyoto, the guide was very friendly and explained the most relevant information about each place.

Z
Z7803NZlesliew
May 12, 2025
Kyoto in one day!

Dhanu was an exceptional tour guide. I was extremely grateful for the way he accommodated my tour of Kyoto. He was extremely efficient and patient with me. We navigated all the sites in one day because he effectively navigated through the large crowds at the various attractions. He was very knowledgeable of the historical significance of each one despite not being native. The bonus was that he was an excellent photographer and knew all the best places to take pictures and capture the moment. I would highly recommend using him for your tour in Kyoto.

L
Lindsay_N
April 16, 2025
Restful, more enjoyable and efficient way to see many sites in 1 day

This was a perfect experience to do at the end of our trip. We were tired so having a day where we could be driven directly to attractions was a gift. Yasiru was a wonderful guide. We communicated easily in English. He was respectful, kind, polite and accommodating. He showed us the best places for photos and the less crowded ways to see the sites. He was also just a lovely person to talk with and learn from. If we had not done this experience, we never would have been able to see so many sites in 1 day.

B
bradc946
April 16, 2025
Dhanu is amazing

Had a great experience with Dhanu. Was very knowledgeable and helpful. We booked at the last minute and could not have been more impressed with the experience.

P
Periyanan_V
April 3, 2025
Rashi the chauffeur was...

Rashi the chauffeur was excellent; He was on time, very professional, took us to all the places , parked the car and took us up to the entrance and gave a little overview as to what to expect; We highly recommend him

M
mrs_m_spencer
March 29, 2025
Great Kyoto day trip from Kobe port

We used this tour as an excursion from a cruise ship docked in Kobe. Dhanu was amazing, he picked us up from the port terminal and took us to all main spots in Kyoto we wanted to see. He shared suggestions and other places to see. We had an amazing day and managed to see a lot in one day. Highly recommend this tour

M
marccG4147CJ
March 28, 2025
Kyoto personal tour

Definitely recommend, so many things to see in Kyoko and we made it to every one of them in a single day. March is busy so be sure to plan ahead. Without this tour we would have barely seen anything as most spots are spread across the city.

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