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Kyoto Private Tours & Local Tour Guides

Discover Things to Do and Plan a Trip to Kyoto, Japan with a Local Guide

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Popular Kyoto Tour Guides

Michiko N.

Hello, and thank you for visiting my page among so many wonderful guides! My name is Michiko. I was born and raised in Kyoto, and I still live here. In my twenties, I lived for a short time in the UK, and recently I spent a year in Thailand. I love traveling to different countries, and I enjoy talking with people from all over the world. When we are in a country that is not our own, I believe it is important to show respect. I always try to respect your culture, and I hope to share the spirit of Japanese hospitality with you too. Kyoto is a beautiful and special place. It has a long history, many unique small shops, and charming hidden paths. In summer, it gets very hot, so I can guide you by car for comfort. But if you like walking, I’m happy to do that too. I can also take you to some delicious local food spots! Besides guiding, I work in the theater and performance art. I love telling stories and sharing emotions. I’m looking forward to showing you not only the famous places, but also the heart of Kyoto—its quiet beauty, kind people, and unforgettable stories. …Besides guiding, I work in the theater and performance art. I love telling stories and sharing emotions. Right now, I’m working on a new artistic project: I create theater-style performances inside shop windows. My dream is to show my work outside Japan someday. I’m still learning and growing as an artist, so if you’re interested, I’d love to talk with you about Japanese performing arts, like Kabuki! I really look forward to the day I can guide you around Kyoto. Let’s discover beautiful moments together!　　 with BIG LOVE!

Fumi U.

I have spent nearly 30 years working with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), contributing to development projects in Latin America and African countries. During this time, I cultivated strong cross-cultural understanding and effective communication skills. For the past 10 years, I have lived in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Guanajuato, Mexico, where I managed a guesthouse, operated a jewelry workshop, and provided guided tours. Through these experiences, I have developed a deep sense of hospitality and attentiveness, ensuring that visitors have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Leveraging these skills, I am dedicated to sharing the beauty of Japan with international guests and creating unforgettable travel experiences.

Yasuhisa K.

I have worked in the multi-national organizations including UN agency for around 30 years and stationed at various cities including Rome, Bangkok and Hanoi. Although I have retired from those international carriers, I wish to keep the international cooperation and develop the friendship with people who visits our country. As I like history and am practicing Noh song and wood curving of Buddha images, I have decided to live in Nara where is surrounded by many historical places and traditional cultures, when I returned back to Japan in 2017. I wish to offer you custom made trip ideas to be able to enjoy the atmosphere of old city, Nara. I am also planning to develop trip plans to enjoy the local cultures. Please call me Yasu.

Shuji O.

Hi, I am Shuji, a licensed tour guide living near Kansai International Airport. I taught world history in high schools for four decades. So, I can explain Japanese culture or history in an easier way tailored to you who have different cultural and historical backgrounds. I also practiced Kendo, Japanese fencing, for more than four decades, and now I enjoy growing vegetables and going fishing. Therefore, I can also share some Japanese culture and its nature. I have traveled to more than 25 countries and all over Japan. I’m also passionate about photography and know many photogenic places in Japan. If you prefer to go off the beaten track, I can take you to hidden gems, including some cozy restaurants. Of course, I also know how to enjoy the crowded, most popular tourist sites. I am here to make your trip stress-free. See you soon!

Michiko N.

Hello, and thank you for visiting my page among so many wonderful guides! My name is Michiko. I was born and raised in Kyoto, and I still live here. In my twenties, I lived for a short time in the UK, and recently I spent a year in Thailand. I love traveling to different countries, and I enjoy talking with people from all over the world. When we are in a country that is not our own, I believe it is important to show respect. I always try to respect your culture, and I hope to share the spirit of Japanese hospitality with you too. Kyoto is a beautiful and special place. It has a long history, many unique small shops, and charming hidden paths. In summer, it gets very hot, so I can guide you by car for comfort. But if you like walking, I’m happy to do that too. I can also take you to some delicious local food spots! Besides guiding, I work in the theater and performance art. I love telling stories and sharing emotions. I’m looking forward to showing you not only the famous places, but also the heart of Kyoto—its quiet beauty, kind people, and unforgettable stories. …Besides guiding, I work in the theater and performance art. I love telling stories and sharing emotions. Right now, I’m working on a new artistic project: I create theater-style performances inside shop windows. My dream is to show my work outside Japan someday. I’m still learning and growing as an artist, so if you’re interested, I’d love to talk with you about Japanese performing arts, like Kabuki! I really look forward to the day I can guide you around Kyoto. Let’s discover beautiful moments together!　　 with BIG LOVE!

Fumi U.

I have spent nearly 30 years working with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), contributing to development projects in Latin America and African countries. During this time, I cultivated strong cross-cultural understanding and effective communication skills. For the past 10 years, I have lived in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Guanajuato, Mexico, where I managed a guesthouse, operated a jewelry workshop, and provided guided tours. Through these experiences, I have developed a deep sense of hospitality and attentiveness, ensuring that visitors have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Leveraging these skills, I am dedicated to sharing the beauty of Japan with international guests and creating unforgettable travel experiences.

Yasuhisa K.

I have worked in the multi-national organizations including UN agency for around 30 years and stationed at various cities including Rome, Bangkok and Hanoi. Although I have retired from those international carriers, I wish to keep the international cooperation and develop the friendship with people who visits our country. As I like history and am practicing Noh song and wood curving of Buddha images, I have decided to live in Nara where is surrounded by many historical places and traditional cultures, when I returned back to Japan in 2017. I wish to offer you custom made trip ideas to be able to enjoy the atmosphere of old city, Nara. I am also planning to develop trip plans to enjoy the local cultures. Please call me Yasu.

Shuji O.

Hi, I am Shuji, a licensed tour guide living near Kansai International Airport. I taught world history in high schools for four decades. So, I can explain Japanese culture or history in an easier way tailored to you who have different cultural and historical backgrounds. I also practiced Kendo, Japanese fencing, for more than four decades, and now I enjoy growing vegetables and going fishing. Therefore, I can also share some Japanese culture and its nature. I have traveled to more than 25 countries and all over Japan. I’m also passionate about photography and know many photogenic places in Japan. If you prefer to go off the beaten track, I can take you to hidden gems, including some cozy restaurants. Of course, I also know how to enjoy the crowded, most popular tourist sites. I am here to make your trip stress-free. See you soon!

View All Kyoto Tour Guides

New Kyoto Tour Guides

Charley S.

Konnichiwa - - - Charley here. Originally, I grew up in Los Angeles and San Diego for the first quarter century of my life. In 2000, I moved to Aichi Prefecture, Japan. One of my main goals was to play music with Japanese musicians, particularly in the underground music scene, which I've been a part of throughout my life. Also, I wanted to enjoy and explore the beauty of living in a foreign country. I've been living here for 25 years, and can gladly say that I have been engaged thoroughly in both of those goals. Since the beginning of moving to Japan, I've always chosen to hang out and engage with Japanese people as opposed to other foreigners. I often find myself in izakaiyas and concert events where I am the only foreigner, but fortunately I am on good terms with the staff and other customers. So if you are looking to see the less touristy aspects of Japan, please feel free to get in touch with me and I would love to share what I have come to appreciate about Japan. Cheers !

Lina Y.

Hi! my name is Lina^_^ I’m from Kobe, Japan. I’m a beginner tour guide, so I would really appreciate your patience and kindness. I love sharing Japanese culture with visitors and seeing their reactions when they learn something new. My hobbies include art, DJing, and sewing, and I enjoy discovering the best spots for sightseeing and local treats. I look forward to showing you the highlights of Osaka and making your experience fun and memorable:))

Katia S.

Hello, bonjour, привет ! I’m a multilingual guide based, offering cultural and historical tours across Osaka, Kyoto and Nara — with a special focus on Shinto shrines, Buddhist temple and Japan history. Kansai is a beautiful area which provide everything you want to see in Japan! Electric, gourmet and vintage with Osaka, traditional and rich of Japanese crafts and temples with Kyoto, and turn to country side and beautiful nature and history in Nara. One of my favorite spots to guide is Sumiyoshi Taisha, one of Japan’s oldest and most iconic Shinto shrines. Through these tours, I share stories, traditions, and perspectives that bring Japanese history and mythology to life. My journey to Japan — all the way from Europe via the Transiberian Railway — reflects my deep love for cultural exchange and meaningful travel. If you’re looking for a laid-back, authentic way to experience Japan with a passionate local — I’m your guide. Book a tour and let’s make it an unforgettable day!

Miyu S.

I'm Miyu. I'm from Osaka. I studied abroad US for 4 months. I'm working as a tour guide in Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara for 4years. If you are with kids, old people no problem. My youngest guest is 0 years old. My oldest guest is over 90years old. If you wanna change your plan during the tour. No problem! This is a private tour. I can change the destinations whenever you want. I like history, anime, and games. I like to see many people from all over the world.

Charley S.

Konnichiwa - - - Charley here. Originally, I grew up in Los Angeles and San Diego for the first quarter century of my life. In 2000, I moved to Aichi Prefecture, Japan. One of my main goals was to play music with Japanese musicians, particularly in the underground music scene, which I've been a part of throughout my life. Also, I wanted to enjoy and explore the beauty of living in a foreign country. I've been living here for 25 years, and can gladly say that I have been engaged thoroughly in both of those goals. Since the beginning of moving to Japan, I've always chosen to hang out and engage with Japanese people as opposed to other foreigners. I often find myself in izakaiyas and concert events where I am the only foreigner, but fortunately I am on good terms with the staff and other customers. So if you are looking to see the less touristy aspects of Japan, please feel free to get in touch with me and I would love to share what I have come to appreciate about Japan. Cheers !

Lina Y.

Hi! my name is Lina^_^ I’m from Kobe, Japan. I’m a beginner tour guide, so I would really appreciate your patience and kindness. I love sharing Japanese culture with visitors and seeing their reactions when they learn something new. My hobbies include art, DJing, and sewing, and I enjoy discovering the best spots for sightseeing and local treats. I look forward to showing you the highlights of Osaka and making your experience fun and memorable:))

Katia S.

Hello, bonjour, привет ! I’m a multilingual guide based, offering cultural and historical tours across Osaka, Kyoto and Nara — with a special focus on Shinto shrines, Buddhist temple and Japan history. Kansai is a beautiful area which provide everything you want to see in Japan! Electric, gourmet and vintage with Osaka, traditional and rich of Japanese crafts and temples with Kyoto, and turn to country side and beautiful nature and history in Nara. One of my favorite spots to guide is Sumiyoshi Taisha, one of Japan’s oldest and most iconic Shinto shrines. Through these tours, I share stories, traditions, and perspectives that bring Japanese history and mythology to life. My journey to Japan — all the way from Europe via the Transiberian Railway — reflects my deep love for cultural exchange and meaningful travel. If you’re looking for a laid-back, authentic way to experience Japan with a passionate local — I’m your guide. Book a tour and let’s make it an unforgettable day!

Miyu S.

I'm Miyu. I'm from Osaka. I studied abroad US for 4 months. I'm working as a tour guide in Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara for 4years. If you are with kids, old people no problem. My youngest guest is 0 years old. My oldest guest is over 90years old. If you wanna change your plan during the tour. No problem! This is a private tour. I can change the destinations whenever you want. I like history, anime, and games. I like to see many people from all over the world.

View All Kyoto Tour Guides

Popular Kyoto Private Tours

Kyoto's must-see attractions and World Heritage sites in one day.

Kyoto's must-see attractions and World Heritage sites in one day.

Perfect for those with limited time, this well-organized tour allows you to experience Kyoto’s most iconic sights efficiently. The itinerary includes the Bamboo Grove in Arashiyama, Tenryu-ji Temple, Togetsukyo Bridge, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and ends in the historic Gion district. While these popular spots can be crowded, we utilize taxis and public transport to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey through this culturally rich city.

Kyoto's must-see attractions and World Heritage sites in one day.

FROM$197/ per group

FROM$197/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Fumi U.

One day tour in Kyoto (Arashiyama area)

One day tour in Kyoto (Arashiyama area)

Tour will start from the Hotel in Kyoto. Frst visit is Kinkakuji temple (Golden Pavillion ),then, to Ryoanji tmple where is famous for rock garden. Tour will stop at Arasiyama area to take lunch and visit Togetsu bridge, Bamboo grove, Tentyuji temple and others. The last visit is NIjyo castle. As these places are normally crowded. using chartered taxi is highly recommended in order to effectively use your valuable time in Kyoto.

One day tour in Kyoto (Arashiyama area)

FROM$271/ per group

FROM$271/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Yasuhisa K.

Bamboo grove and Arashiyama area, three World Heritages.

Bamboo grove and Arashiyama area, three World Heritages.

Arashiyama is the hottest tourist destination. It is incredibly beautiful in spring and fall because of its cherry blossoms and autumn leaves. In the fall, the leaves turn brown or red! In the outstanding Tenryuji, you will see a beautiful garden with beautiful mountains in the background. There are many other beautiful places with touching stories in this area. On the way back to downtown, we can visit two world heritage sites, Kinkakuji and Ryoanji. What a wonderful route!

Bamboo grove and Arashiyama area, three World Heritages.

FROM$340/ per group

FROM$340/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Shuji O.

Early Bird Tour Western Kyoto including Bamboo Forest and Kinkakuji Kinkakuji

Early Bird Tour Western Kyoto including Bamboo Forest and Kinkakuji Kinkakuji

Shall we explore some of the most popular sightseeing destinations in Kyoto while most tourists are preparing for their tour? I would also like to take you some hidden gemes in Kyoto. Beat the crowds!

Early Bird Tour Western Kyoto including Bamboo Forest and Kinkakuji Kinkakuji

FROM$238/ per group

FROM$238/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Koichi W.

Kyoto's must-see attractions and World Heritage sites in one day.

Kyoto's must-see attractions and World Heritage sites in one day.

Perfect for those with limited time, this well-organized tour allows you to experience Kyoto’s most iconic sights efficiently. The itinerary includes the Bamboo Grove in Arashiyama, Tenryu-ji Temple, Togetsukyo Bridge, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and ends in the historic Gion district. While these popular spots can be crowded, we utilize taxis and public transport to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey through this culturally rich city.

Kyoto's must-see attractions and World Heritage sites in one day.

FROM$197/ per group

FROM$197/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Fumi U.

One day tour in Kyoto (Arashiyama area)

One day tour in Kyoto (Arashiyama area)

Tour will start from the Hotel in Kyoto. Frst visit is Kinkakuji temple (Golden Pavillion ),then, to Ryoanji tmple where is famous for rock garden. Tour will stop at Arasiyama area to take lunch and visit Togetsu bridge, Bamboo grove, Tentyuji temple and others. The last visit is NIjyo castle. As these places are normally crowded. using chartered taxi is highly recommended in order to effectively use your valuable time in Kyoto.

One day tour in Kyoto (Arashiyama area)

FROM$271/ per group

FROM$271/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Yasuhisa K.

Bamboo grove and Arashiyama area, three World Heritages.

Bamboo grove and Arashiyama area, three World Heritages.

Arashiyama is the hottest tourist destination. It is incredibly beautiful in spring and fall because of its cherry blossoms and autumn leaves. In the fall, the leaves turn brown or red! In the outstanding Tenryuji, you will see a beautiful garden with beautiful mountains in the background. There are many other beautiful places with touching stories in this area. On the way back to downtown, we can visit two world heritage sites, Kinkakuji and Ryoanji. What a wonderful route!

Bamboo grove and Arashiyama area, three World Heritages.

FROM$340/ per group

FROM$340/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Shuji O.

Early Bird Tour Western Kyoto including Bamboo Forest and Kinkakuji Kinkakuji

Early Bird Tour Western Kyoto including Bamboo Forest and Kinkakuji Kinkakuji

Shall we explore some of the most popular sightseeing destinations in Kyoto while most tourists are preparing for their tour? I would also like to take you some hidden gemes in Kyoto. Beat the crowds!

Early Bird Tour Western Kyoto including Bamboo Forest and Kinkakuji Kinkakuji

FROM$238/ per group

FROM$238/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Koichi W.

View All Kyoto Private Tours

New Kyoto Private Tours

A Hike through the Historical Turning Points of Kyoto

A Hike through the Historical Turning Points of Kyoto

Kyoto became the capital of a nation centered on the Emperor in the 8th century. However, the Emperor was frequently forced to engage in battles for real power against the powerful temples with religious influence and SAMURAI leaders with armed forces. This tour takes you to the site of the Imperial Palace and Nijo-jo Castle, symbols of power throughout the 1,100 years. We also visit sites of revitalization projects after the capital was relocated to Tokyo in the 19th century.

A Hike through the Historical Turning Points of Kyoto

FROM$306/ per group

FROM$306/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Yosshi S.

Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Tenryu-ji Temple Walking Tour with Local Food

Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Tenryu-ji Temple Walking Tour with Local Food

Experience Kyoto’s Arashiyama with a tour that combines culture, nature, and flavor. Visit Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and stroll through the iconic Bamboo Forest. Taste authentic local food and, as an optional highlight, ride the scenic Arashiyama Romantic Train for stunning mountain and river views. A perfect blend of history, beauty, and local charm.

Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Tenryu-ji Temple Walking Tour with Local Food

FROM$381/ per group

FROM$381/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Leo T.

Shinto Shrine, Buddhism Temple, Zen Garden, Old Town and Palace-Kyoto

Shinto Shrine, Buddhism Temple, Zen Garden, Old Town and Palace-Kyoto

Kyoto is blessed with a long history and rich culture. There are a lot of places to visit there, there are a lot of things to see there to understand its profundity. This tour covers five different categories, Shinto Shrine, Buddhism Temple, Zen Garden, Old Town and Palace to understand the cultural value of Kyoto It can be said that these different cultural aspects are mixed up to create the unique atmosphere of Kyoto.

Shinto Shrine, Buddhism Temple, Zen Garden, Old Town and Palace-Kyoto

FROM$306/ per group

FROM$306/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Hiroyuki T.

One day trip to explore Okusaga, western Kyoto's hidden gem

One day trip to explore Okusaga, western Kyoto's hidden gem

Are you tired of the crowds? Let's explore Kyoto’s western treasures. Begin at the peaceful Ōtagi Nenbutsu-ji, famous for its hundreds of whimsical stone statues. Then walk along the historic Atago Kaidō to Jōjakkō-ji Temple. Stroll through the magical Bamboo Grove and visit Tenryū-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After lunch, we’ll head to Ryōan-ji, world-renowned rock garden, and finish at the glittering Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks.

One day trip to explore Okusaga, western Kyoto's hidden gem

FROM$197/ per group

FROM$197/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Fumi U.

A Hike through the Historical Turning Points of Kyoto

A Hike through the Historical Turning Points of Kyoto

Kyoto became the capital of a nation centered on the Emperor in the 8th century. However, the Emperor was frequently forced to engage in battles for real power against the powerful temples with religious influence and SAMURAI leaders with armed forces. This tour takes you to the site of the Imperial Palace and Nijo-jo Castle, symbols of power throughout the 1,100 years. We also visit sites of revitalization projects after the capital was relocated to Tokyo in the 19th century.

A Hike through the Historical Turning Points of Kyoto

FROM$306/ per group

FROM$306/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Yosshi S.

Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Tenryu-ji Temple Walking Tour with Local Food

Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Tenryu-ji Temple Walking Tour with Local Food

Experience Kyoto’s Arashiyama with a tour that combines culture, nature, and flavor. Visit Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and stroll through the iconic Bamboo Forest. Taste authentic local food and, as an optional highlight, ride the scenic Arashiyama Romantic Train for stunning mountain and river views. A perfect blend of history, beauty, and local charm.

Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Tenryu-ji Temple Walking Tour with Local Food

FROM$381/ per group

FROM$381/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Leo T.

Shinto Shrine, Buddhism Temple, Zen Garden, Old Town and Palace-Kyoto

Shinto Shrine, Buddhism Temple, Zen Garden, Old Town and Palace-Kyoto

Kyoto is blessed with a long history and rich culture. There are a lot of places to visit there, there are a lot of things to see there to understand its profundity. This tour covers five different categories, Shinto Shrine, Buddhism Temple, Zen Garden, Old Town and Palace to understand the cultural value of Kyoto It can be said that these different cultural aspects are mixed up to create the unique atmosphere of Kyoto.

Shinto Shrine, Buddhism Temple, Zen Garden, Old Town and Palace-Kyoto

FROM$306/ per group

FROM$306/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Hiroyuki T.

One day trip to explore Okusaga, western Kyoto's hidden gem

One day trip to explore Okusaga, western Kyoto's hidden gem

Are you tired of the crowds? Let's explore Kyoto’s western treasures. Begin at the peaceful Ōtagi Nenbutsu-ji, famous for its hundreds of whimsical stone statues. Then walk along the historic Atago Kaidō to Jōjakkō-ji Temple. Stroll through the magical Bamboo Grove and visit Tenryū-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After lunch, we’ll head to Ryōan-ji, world-renowned rock garden, and finish at the glittering Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks.

One day trip to explore Okusaga, western Kyoto's hidden gem

FROM$197/ per group

FROM$197/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Fumi U.

View All Kyoto Private Tours

Popular Kyoto Private Cars

Kyoto Spiritual Tour! – Half Day by Private Car

Kyoto Spiritual Tour! – Half Day by Private Car

Visit 4 special places in Kyoto and feel the calm, spiritual energy. Kyoto is hot in summer, but you can relax in a cool and quiet car. This tour is only on weekdays, so there are fewer people. It’s good to enjoy Kyoto slowly and peacefully. Each place has beautiful nature. The air is very clear and fresh. Your mind can feel calm and clean again. This is for people who want to take care of work, family, and themselves. The car can take 3 adults. If you come with kids, just tell us before!

Kyoto Spiritual Tour! – Half Day by Private Car

FROM$177/ per group

FROM$177/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Michiko N.

Kyoto Early Bird Highlights with Car Service

Kyoto Early Bird Highlights with Car Service

Join me on this tour as we explore five of Kyoto's must-see sights, starting early to beat the crowds. You'll enjoy the convenience of transportation between locations, with your knowledgeable guide driving you to each site. This allows you to save valuable time and energy for fully immersing yourself in the beauty and history of each location.

Kyoto Early Bird Highlights with Car Service

FROM$255/ per group

FROM$255/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Kanae O.

"Discover Kyoto's Hidden Treasures Ⅰ: Let’s explore the traditional culture untouched by tourism"

"Discover Kyoto's Hidden Treasures Ⅰ: Let’s explore the traditional culture untouched by tourism"

In this tour, I'll take you on a journey to experience the ancient culture deeply rooted in Kyoto, which only locals can truly appreciate, in my car. Kyoto is a basin surrounded by mountains over 900 meters high in three directions. For most of its 1200-year history, it has thrived on this flat basin. However, once you step into the mountains surrounding the area, you'll discover a world that can only be experienced with my tour.

"Discover Kyoto's Hidden Treasures Ⅰ: Let’s explore the traditional culture untouched by tourism"

FROM$578/ per group

FROM$578/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Ryuichiro M.

A trip to Kyoto and Osaka in one day

A trip to Kyoto and Osaka in one day

If you want to visit as many cities as possible during your limited stay in Japan. In such cases, private car tours are recommended. Avoid crowded buses, tedious train transfers, and expensive taxies. I will cover all major sightseeing spots in Kyoto and Osaka in one day in comfort!

A trip to Kyoto and Osaka in one day

FROM$748/ per group

FROM$748/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Yoshiroh N.

Kyoto Spiritual Tour! – Half Day by Private Car

Kyoto Spiritual Tour! – Half Day by Private Car

Visit 4 special places in Kyoto and feel the calm, spiritual energy. Kyoto is hot in summer, but you can relax in a cool and quiet car. This tour is only on weekdays, so there are fewer people. It’s good to enjoy Kyoto slowly and peacefully. Each place has beautiful nature. The air is very clear and fresh. Your mind can feel calm and clean again. This is for people who want to take care of work, family, and themselves. The car can take 3 adults. If you come with kids, just tell us before!

Kyoto Spiritual Tour! – Half Day by Private Car

FROM$177/ per group

FROM$177/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Michiko N.

Kyoto Early Bird Highlights with Car Service

Kyoto Early Bird Highlights with Car Service

Join me on this tour as we explore five of Kyoto's must-see sights, starting early to beat the crowds. You'll enjoy the convenience of transportation between locations, with your knowledgeable guide driving you to each site. This allows you to save valuable time and energy for fully immersing yourself in the beauty and history of each location.

Kyoto Early Bird Highlights with Car Service

FROM$255/ per group

FROM$255/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Kanae O.

"Discover Kyoto's Hidden Treasures Ⅰ: Let’s explore the traditional culture untouched by tourism"

"Discover Kyoto's Hidden Treasures Ⅰ: Let’s explore the traditional culture untouched by tourism"

In this tour, I'll take you on a journey to experience the ancient culture deeply rooted in Kyoto, which only locals can truly appreciate, in my car. Kyoto is a basin surrounded by mountains over 900 meters high in three directions. For most of its 1200-year history, it has thrived on this flat basin. However, once you step into the mountains surrounding the area, you'll discover a world that can only be experienced with my tour.

"Discover Kyoto's Hidden Treasures Ⅰ: Let’s explore the traditional culture untouched by tourism"

FROM$578/ per group

FROM$578/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Ryuichiro M.

A trip to Kyoto and Osaka in one day

A trip to Kyoto and Osaka in one day

If you want to visit as many cities as possible during your limited stay in Japan. In such cases, private car tours are recommended. Avoid crowded buses, tedious train transfers, and expensive taxies. I will cover all major sightseeing spots in Kyoto and Osaka in one day in comfort!

A trip to Kyoto and Osaka in one day

FROM$748/ per group

FROM$748/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Yoshiroh N.

View All Kyoto Private Cars

Day Trips from Kyoto

Osaka Tour Guide

Osaka

Nara Tour Guide

Nara

Kobe Tour Guide

Kobe

Hyogo Tour Guide

Hyogo

Shiga Tour Guide

Shiga

Osaka Tour Guide

Osaka

Nara Tour Guide

Nara

Kobe Tour Guide

Kobe

Hyogo Tour Guide

Hyogo

Shiga Tour Guide

Shiga

Kyoto Tour Reviews

L

Lea B.

5 / 5

Aug 28, 2025

Kyoto tour with Lea san!

Customized

“A lovely day in Kyoto with Michiko”

We made the booking very last minute, and yet, Michiko was a star in preparing a programme. She was extremely attentive to our requests and she arranged a very nice tour for us. She knows well the art scene, theatre and can arrange very interesting visits. Michiko is very open to discussion, she likes her city and is genuinely happy to show it to tourists like us. She explained many things to us about the places we visited and about the daily life in Japan. She even helped us in visiting a supermarket and bring back some actual food souvenirs … She drove us through the city and is a very prudent driver. We recommand visiting Kyoto with her

Michiko N.

Thank you so much for choosing me this time. Kyoto’s summer is very hard,,, I really appreciate that you tried to discover Kyoto even in this heat. As someone who lives here, it makes me very happy. I hope I was able to meet your wishes. More than anything, I am grateful for all the stories you and your family shared with me. You even kindly supported me when I was not perfect. It was truly an honor to spend this time together with you. Thank you very much, and I really hope we can meet again someday!

C

Claudia S.

5 / 5

Aug 27, 2025

Full day private guided tour in Kyoto

“Una experiencia inolvidable en Kyoto gracias a José!”

Organicé un tour privado en Kyoto para mis padres con José, y estoy inmensamente agradecida por la increíble experiencia que tuvieron. De principio a fin, el servicio fue profesional, atento y profundamente enriquecedor. José no solo tenía un conocimiento increíble de la historia, la cultura y los tesoros escondidos de Kyoto, sino que también fue paciente y atento al ritmo e intereses de mis padres. Esto fue más que un tour: fue una experiencia verdaderamente significativa. Mis padres se sintieron bienvenidos, informados y atendidos en todo momento. Si buscas un guía en Kyoto que combine profundos conocimientos con genuina hospitalidad, no busques más y contacta a José!!!

Jose david V.

Muchísimas gracias por tan agradables palabras. Espero que tus padres pasen unos días excelentes en Japón.

William T.

5 / 5

Aug 27, 2025

Arima Onsen- day-trip

Customized

“Awesome Arima Onsen day-trip”

I wanted to visit Arima Onsen, known for it's amazing healing properties, however, being unfamiliar with the Kansai area decided to go with a highly customized tour that would use the Shinkansen as well as the day use of Onsen including lunch. I used Mary's guide service for my daughter previously, and was sure she could come up with a great tour plan for me. It ended up being one of the best guided tours I have taken thus far. Not only did Mary plan every detail of the tour per my requests, but my guide, Layla, was exemplary in her planning and research of the Arima Onsen area that we visited. The highlights of the tour included: 1. Arima Onsen Ginsuisou Choraku - this ryokan was wonderful and beyond description as the pictures don't do it justice. Both the silver and gold springs were very clean and pleasant and I had the most relaxing and invigorating time with it's day usage. 2. Kaiseki lunch - the traditional and seasonal meal far exceeded my expectations as it was absolutely a gorgeous peace of art in itself. 3. Mt. Rokko Ropeway - initially not part of the tour but we had arrived early and were able to take the ropeway to the top of the mountain with amazing views of Kobe and Osaka. In summary, I was touched by the care and attentiveness that my guide, Layla, exhibited during the tour. Everything went smoothly even when we had to go off the plan such as the detour to Mt. Rokko per my last-minute request. Not only did she thoroughly research the area regaling me with in-depth knowledge of the history and cultural significance of Arima, but Layla also did little things like bring a small electric fan so I could cool down in the very hot weather. She was really organized and did not miss a beat. I highly recommend Mary and tour guide Layla for any future tours in Kansai. I could not have done this Arima Onsen excursion without them. Thank You!

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