Kyoto Private Tours

7 hours

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.

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!

Must-See Kyoto in One Day

This tour is the most effective way to discover Kyoto by yourselfes for only one day. Kyoto is an ancient capital of Japan , and the center of her civilization for over a thousand years. There are too many Shinto- shrines and Buddhsist temples to visit. So , in this tour I carefully sellected sightseeing spots among all of them. I,m sure you are satisfied with this once in a life time experience.

Bamboo grove and Arashiyama area, three World Heritages.

View all Highlights in Kyoto

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!

Kyoto Art, Culture, & Historical Tours

Zen temples with beautiful gardens, Fushimi Inari and Bamboo Forest

There are a lot of Buddhism temples and Shinto Shrines in Kyoto. This tour focuses on three UNESCO World Heritage temples with beautiful gardens, Fushimi Inari Shrine which is famous for a lot of red Torii gates and Bamboo Forest in Arashiyma to feel the profundity of Kyoto. If you are interested in the places which are not listed here, like Nijo Castle, Kyoto Imperial Palace, Gion, Nishiki Market, Sanjusangen-do, Kiyomizu-dera and others, just let me know, I will customize a tour for you.

Fully customizable your own private tour in Kyoto

There are so many great places in Kyoto that you probably want to visit but perhaps not enough time. Also, Kyoto is getting very crowded due to a lot of foreigners visiting there. It is best to have a local person guiding you to come up with a plan that suits your preference. I can create a tour with you which includes not only popular places like the Golden Pavilion and Fushimi Inari but small temples with Wabi Sabi such as those in Sagano and the oldest Japanese sweet shop in Murasakino.

半天周游京都宇治地区（平等院凤凰堂、黄檗山万福寺）

4 hours 30 min

从您们的宾馆，坐京阪电车。 1首先访问平等院凤凰堂（在宇治车站下车）走着斜看宇治川过约7，8分钟，到平等院凤凰堂。（世界文化遗产） 2然后再坐京阪电车到黄檗山万福寺（在黄檗车站下车）走着去约5分钟到黄檗山万福寺，是日本最早的禅宗寺院（中国由来的）

Private tour Fushimi Inari, Golden Pavilion, Nijo Castle, Nishiki Market Start form Kyoto or Osaka

View all Art, Culture, & Historical in Kyoto

Kyoto is the ancient and modern blend seamlessly. Join me on a private tour to explore two of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks: Fushini Inari, Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion and Nijo Castle, culminating in a vibrant exploration of Nishiki Market. Enriching journey through Kyoto's past and present, where each moment promises a new discovery.

FROM$261/ per group

Akari Y.

Kyoto Day Trip Tours

Charming must -see in north west area of Kyoto city

This tour covers 4 must-see sightseeing spot . Firstly, we visit the golden pavilion. We go to Arashiyama. We walk through Tenryuji garden and bamboo forest. In the afternoon, we'll visit Nijo castle. (We enjoy watching a live demonstration of Japanese sweet making with green tea(Mattcha).Finally you can learn about Kyoto’s traditional and wonderful kimono

Your most memorable tour in Kyoto

Kyoto is an ancient capital that has existed for over 1000 years. There are many shrines and temples, and you can also see traditional Japanese culture such as tea ceremony and flower arrangement. You can also see the beautiful scenery that will take your breath away. Please feel Kyoto, which can be said to be the origin of Japan, with all five senses.

Customized Private Tour in Kyoto

This is customized private tour in Kyoto which guests can create easily by selecting any spots from a list of popular tourist destinations. The list consists of 16 tourist destinations (S01-16) that are very popular especially among foreign tourists. After the guest's selection the guide will arrange best itinerary with tour cost and feedback proper offer to the guest for formal booking.

Kyoto welcome tour

View all Day Trip in Kyoto

We go to Fushimi Inari shrine in the morning. Fushimi Inari is the most popular sightseeing spot in Japan. So no way to skip this spot!! Next, we will go to Kiyomizu temple. Also, there is Sanneizaka which is a traditional slope pass around Kiyomizu district. Then walking around the Gion area in the nighttime! If we have extra time, I will introduce you Nishiki market!

Kyoto Nature & Outdoor Tours

Kyoto Early Bird Trekking Ending with Ramen

3 hours 30 min

Departing from Kyoto City Subway’s Keage Station, we will pass by Himukai Daijingu Shrine before making our way towards Mt. Daimonjiyama. As we ascend to the mountain's peak, you'll be greeted with panoramic views of Kyoto, stretching as far as Osaka. After descending towards Imadegawa Street, our journey will conclude at a charming local ramen restaurant.

Kyoto: Bamboo, Mountains and Markets [8 hours]

The tranquility of a meticulously maintained bamboo forest, a mountain shrine with vibrant red torii gates, and a breathtaking view of the city from a mountaintop temple. In this adventure we will explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, visit the Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine, and wander through the Tofuku-ji temple (especially beautiful in Fall or Spring). Later, we check out Kiyomizu-dera and walk through Yasaka Shrine, Gion, Shirakawa Lane, Pontocho, Teramachi, and over to the Nishiki Market.

Kyoto back road trail/behide the major temples

There's numbers of trails around Kyoto where people's life and forest are closely coexist. In this tour, guests will be guided half-day tour which starts from just beside one of the famous tourist spot "Silver temple". The trail starts from well-maintained road, getting gently increase in slope. Then we suddenly jump into an open space which is called "Hidoko (fire bed)" where Kyoto's biggest festival ”Okuribi (bonfire)" is held. Great panoramic view of Kyoto city is also available here.

One Day Tour with the Magnificent View in Saga Arashiyama

View all Nature & Outdoor in Kyoto

Saga Arashiyama is located in the northwest of Kyoto city, which was an ancient capital of Japan. It is famous for its scenic beauty. There are many picturesque places such as bamboo groves, mountain ranges, bridges, rivers, historical temples and shrines , scenic trains, and a 'Kimono Forest'. On this tour we will walk down the mountainside, visit some peaceful temples, see the beautiful bamboo groves and attractive gifts (pottery, cocoon dolls, handmade bamboo products) there.

Kyoto Unique Experience Tours

One day bike tour to southern part of Kyoto, Uji and Fushimi

8 hours 30 min

In this tour, we can visit all the must-see places in the southern part of Kyoto together. Fushimi, known for the Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousand torii gates and sake breweries, and Uji, famous for its matcha and the Phoenix Hall, each hold a unique position in Kyoto. During this tour, I, who have lived in Uji for three years and now work in Fushimi, will share the charm of these two towns from a local's perspective, as we explore by bicycle.

Let's enjoy early morning Kyoto and maiko experience

Kyoto is one of the most popular places to visit, but so crowded. If you want to enjoy quiet Kyoto, I recommend you visit there early morning. In this tour, you can enjoy bamboo grove, morning coffee at a Japanese style coffee shop and beautiful river and mountains scenery from a wooden bridge. After that, why don't you try 'washoku', or Japanese cuisine and maiko, or cute apprentice geisha's dancing? My special early morning tour will give you wonderful and unforgettable memories in Japan!!

Koto Lesson in Nijo,Kyoto

1 hour 20 min

Let's learn Japanese instrument Koto at cozy Kyo-machiya house! Koto, Japanese traditional instrument, seems difficult to play and try for beginners. However, at Soushunan, the lesson by the professional instructor enables you to play one song in 80min.

KYOTO - Calligraphy Workshop & Half-day Kyoto Tour

View all Unique Experience in Kyoto

This is a introductory calligraphy lesson and 4 hour tour. If you are with small kids, expecting to have a hands-on experience with a local, please feel free to contact me!

Kyoto Off the Beaten Path Tours

[Ichijou street] Hanging around east-west street in Kyoto

There are many old streets in old capital Kyoto area. I design a walking tour set of 31 streets.You can see the true Kyoto in this tour which is not in tourism like 30 years ago.In some streets, You could see traditional dying shops for Yuzen which is a traditional dyeing Kimono method of Kyoto.You can visit some of the shops and I will interpret between the shop owner and you.

Ancient Wizard of Kyoto [4 Hours]

4 hours

A thrilling ancient tale of a formidable Japanese sorcerer, who wielded unimaginable power over a thousand years ago. Join us as we venture to a sacred shrine dedicated to his memory, and explore the eerie abode of his otherworldly assistants. Be amazed as you encounter a collection of mystical religious talismans and amulets, each intricately decorated with symbols that will leave you spellbound. Don't miss out on this extraordinary journey into the realm of magic and mystery!

Kyoto Hiking tour Fushimi Inari to sanjusangen-do

Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for many torii gates like an orange tunnel. But most tourists just visit only the entrance. I would like to show you the deep inside of Fushimi Inari Shrine through tunnel and take you to the top of mountain. From Inari mountain, we will walk a part of “Higashiyama Trail” hiking course, then we will visit the family temple of imperial house and Sanjusangen-do temple.

[Bukkouji street] Hanging around east-west street in Kyoto

View all Off the Beaten Path in Kyoto

There are many old streets in old capital Kyoto area. I design a walking tour set of 31 streets.You can see the true Kyoto in this tour which is not in current tourism. It is like Kyoto of 30 years ago. You could see Japanese kitchen knife shops, Nishijin kimono shops and etc.You can visit some of the shops and I will interpret between the shop owner and you.

Kyoto Food & Drink Tours

Kyoto Fushimi Sake & Food Tasting Experience

4 hours

After visiting the renowned Fushimi Inari Shrine, we will explore some of the sake breweries in the Fushimi area, known for its long history of sake brewing in Kyoto. You’ll enjoy exploring the local neighborhood while tasting sake and sampling delicious food.

Let's enjoy "yuba" cuisine and Toji Temple!

7 hours

Do you know "yuba"? It is very healthy Japanese food. Yuba is soy milk skin and you can taste "yuba kaiseki" at an old yuba restaurant. After enjoying the healthy cuisine, you can also enjoy watching the yuba factory!! Near the restaurant, there is an old temple, Toji and its branch temple, Kanchiin Temple. I'm sure you will have a wonderful and rare experience in Kyoto!!

Japanese foods introduction tour

3 hours

I can show you Japanese traditional food and local food at Nishiki market and downtown after hearing your preference. Let's explore Kyoto foods together!!

KYOTO - A Tailor-Made dining experience for you

View all Food & Drink in Kyoto

3 hours

Japan has a very unique cooking style and set of table manners. Learn about the food culture and culinary history of Japan and visit local restaurants in Kyoto which offers a rich and diverse culinary tradition.

Kyoto Nightlife Tours

Kyoto Night Walking Tour

1 hour 30 min

Would you stroll Gion, Kiyamachi, Ponto-cho, Shirakawa,Yasaka Shrine with me, which are Kyoto entertainment areas ? Old wooden houses and narrow alleys such as old townscape exist as they are. Some areas are lighted up and many poeples will gather there after 18:00pm Please feel the night enthusiasm, today.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Gion District Exploration

View all Nightlife in Kyoto

3 hours

Join our tour for a captivating journey through Kyoto's historic and cultural highlights. Begin with a visit to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, renowned for its stunning architecture and panoramic city views, beautifully illuminated as twilight descends. Next, immerse yourself in the charm of the Gion District, Kyoto’s famous geisha quarter. Wander through its traditional streets, lined with historic wooden machiya houses and teahouses.

Kyoto Shopping Tours

Exclusive tour for handmade-lovers and Ginkakuji Temple

View all Shopping in Kyoto

There are many flea markets held in Kyoto on only one day in every month. In this tour, first, we will visit Ginkakuji Temple, and then, another temple where the famous handmade flea market is held. If you are interested in handmade, you will surely have a lot of fun! Only held on the 15th day of every month.

Kyoto Kids & Family Friendly Tours

Matcha, Mochi, the Majestic Byōdōin and Tōdaiji: An Forgettable Day Exploring Kyoto & Nara

View all Kids & Family Friendly in Kyoto

9 hours 40 min

Embark on a full-day tour from Kyoto to Nara discovering Japan's rich heritage start with the iconic Fushimi inari taisha famous for its thousands of red torii gates Experience the traditional art of matcha in uji, then explore Nara's majestic Todaiji temple, home to the great Buddha. Enjoy the serene Nara Deer Park. Finally experience the lively traditional of making mochi. This memorable journey blends history, culture, and authentic Local experience for a truly unforgettable day

FROM$213/ per group

Menshawi F.

Day Trips from Kyoto

Osaka

Nara

Kobe

Hyogo

Shiga

Kyoto Tour Reviews

Alfonso M.

5 / 5

Feb 21, 2025

Customized Full-Day Kyoto Tour

8 hours 30 min

Customized

Feb 21, 2025

“A private car tour of Kyoto with Kanae is the way to go ”

There would be no way my 2 adult sons and I would have been able to see as much as we did without Kanae's car. The rail system in Kyoto is not as robust as in Tokyo or Osaka, a car is a must. Kanae was kind enough to meet with us at a local restaurant the night before the tour to discuss and finalize the itinerary. Kanae took us to the "must see" sights of Kyoto as well as some very interesting hidden gems. Kanae also suggested other sites to go see the next day when we were on our own. The tour was memorable and a highlight of our trip to Japan. Thank you Kanae!!

Henry F.

5 / 5

Feb 20, 2025

Customized Private Tour in Kyoto

4 hours

Feb 20, 2025

“Wonderful visit to Kyoto”

Kanji guided my wife and me for 3 days in Kyoto. He tailored our tour to our interests. He is knowledgeable, passionate and energetic. He took us to all the important sites explained it’s history and significance and really helped us become much more knowledgeable about Japan its people ,culture and beauty We unequivocally recommend using him to anyone visiting the city.

Kenji M.

Henry-san, What a great review of my tour you gave me! I'm very glad to hear that you liked my guiding and fascinating spots we visited. Despite of cold weathers we managed to visit major attractive tourist spots because you gave me 4-days tour in total. Off course I could also enjoy myself spending a wonderful time with you and your wife. If you have another chance to visit Kyoto, please let me know so that I can tailor any tour to meet your needs. Arigatogozaimashita, Kenji

Steve L.

5 / 5

Feb 19, 2025

Kyoto 1 Day Tour covering Most Popular Spots