Kyoto Private Tours
Book a Private Kyoto Tour with a Local Tour Guide
Kyoto Highlights Tours
Kyoto
7 hours
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$270/ per group
Yasuhisa K.
4.98 / 5
(51 reviews)
Kyoto
8 hours
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$338/ per group
Shuji O.
4.93 / 5
(44 reviews)
Kyoto
9 hrs 30 mins
Hilights in Kyoto & Nara
We will visit three highlights in Kyoto, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Bamboo Grove & Tenryuji Temple in Arashiyama and Kinkakuji Temple and visit two highlights in Nara, Todaiji Temple and Nara Deer Park. You will fully enjoy these places and get in touch with feelings of Kyoto and Nara cultures.
Hilights in Kyoto & Nara
FROM$352/ per group
Eric T.
4.89 / 5
(54 reviews)
Kyoto
5 hours
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$237/ per group
Koichi W.
4.97 / 5
(89 reviews)
Kyoto Art, Culture, & Historical Tours
Kyoto
8 hours
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. 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 one of the oldest Japanese sweets shops in Murasakino.
Fully customizable your own private tour in Kyoto
FROM$352/ per group
Nori I.
5.00 / 5
(64 reviews)
Kyoto
4 hrs 30 mins
半天周游京都宇治地区（平等院凤凰堂、黄檗山万福寺）
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 ）
半天周游京都宇治地区（平等院凤凰堂、黄檗山万福寺）
FROM$55/ per group
裕治
4.71 / 5
(14 reviews)
Kyoto
8 hours
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.
Zen temples with beautiful gardens, Fushimi Inari and Bamboo Forest
FROM$304/ per group
Hiroyuki T.
4.97 / 5
(181 reviews)
Kyoto
6 hours
Eastern Kyoto, Short Hike in a Peaceful Temple and Forest
Experience the charm of tranquility in a mountain temple. Take a 3km walk around the foothills of the Higashiyama Mountain Range, visiting shrines and temples along the path. Starting at Seikanji Temple on Mt. Kiyomizu (242m height), follow the Uta-no-Nakayama Road to Kiyomizu-dera. Then, go through Sanneizaka and Nene-no-michi, and reach Maruyama Park and Yasaka Shrine. Along the way, we can feel old stories of tragic love while enjoying panoramic views of the Kyoto cityscape.
Eastern Kyoto, Short Hike in a Peaceful Temple and Forest
FROM$257/ per group
Yosshi S.
5.00 / 5
(7 reviews)
Kyoto Day Trip Tours
Kyoto
8 hours
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
Charming must -see in north west area of Kyoto city
FROM$216/ per group
Mana F.
4.88 / 5
(105 reviews)
Kyoto
6 hours
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.
Your most memorable tour in Kyoto
FROM$250/ per group
Kazuhiko G.
4.78 / 5
(197 reviews)
Kyoto
8 hours
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.
Customized Private Tour in Kyoto
FROM$406/ per group
Kenji M.
4.74 / 5
(91 reviews)
Kyoto
8 hours
Western Kyoto Tour
We can go to Arashiyama to visit bamboo forests and explore some temples with Japanese gardens. The golden pagoda, Kinkakuji,you'll appreciate the most shiniest pagoda in Kyoto. Kitano Tenmangu shrine to pray for academic luck for your studies. Nijyo castle, the old history and story of the castle in Kyoto.
Western Kyoto Tour
FROM$379/ per person
Nobuko O.
4.96 / 5
(26 reviews)
Kyoto Nature & Outdoor Tours
Kyoto
3 hrs 30 mins
Kyoto Early Bird Trekking Ending with Ramen
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 Early Bird Trekking Ending with Ramen
FROM$57/ per person
Kanae O.
5.00 / 5
(57 reviews)
Kyoto
6 hours
The Tengu's Trail: Into the Heart of Kurama’s Mystical Mountain
Journey through the legendary mountains of Kurama and Kibune. Start at Kurama Temple, where Yoshitsune trained with the mythical Tengu, and where Aikido founder Ueshiba completed 21 days of spiritual practice. Walk through a lush, ancient forest rich with native trees and wildlife. Discover traces of history along the peaceful trail. Guided by the sound of a flowing stream, arrive in Kibune to visit its sacred Shinto shrines. A healthy, nature-filled hike connecting history, myth, and spirit.
The Tengu's Trail: Into the Heart of Kurama’s Mystical Mountain
FROM$271/ per group
Akari Y.
5.00 / 5
(2 reviews)
![Kyoto: Bamboo, Mountains and Markets [8 hours]](https://gowithguide.com/images/x0nGcqBMgwCpQQgzty_E2yK7lsAJntyNJVqn-CQ9mF0/f:avif/h:480/w:480/plain/gowithguide/tours/16152/2c3b4ad9-fb64-42f6-97ce-a08f04f0cbf4.jpg)
Kyoto
8 hours
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: Bamboo, Mountains and Markets [8 hours]
FROM$521/ per group
Jay T.
4.33 / 5
(3 reviews)
Kyoto
6 hours
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.
Kyoto back road trail/behide the major temples
FROM$216/ per group
Tomoya H.
4.80 / 5
(5 reviews)
Kyoto Off the Beaten Path Tours
Kyoto
4 hours
Half-day Kyoto History and Culture Tour
First and foremost, I do not want to provide a typical tour to the standard fair of tourist attractions. As with the majority of visitors to Kyoto, you do not really need a guide to visit such places. Instead, what makes my tour special is that I can show you the unique places of Kyoto with the addition of a historical and cultural background. Lunch at local restaurants, visit temples of the beaten path, go to local shopping arcades for unique products. Enjoy Kyoto without the crowds.
Half-day Kyoto History and Culture Tour
FROM$406/ per group
Eco H.
5.00 / 5
(7 reviews)
![Ancient Wizard of Kyoto [4 Hours]](https://gowithguide.com/images/tuQOCrOO2sM6VGcil9G5brC9iV4IdyHugNaPPtFIdis/f:avif/h:480/w:480/plain/gowithguide/tours/15709/9e763dd4-f120-4f95-9784-cb9d18b1ca63.jpg)
Kyoto
4 hours
Ancient Wizard of Kyoto [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!
Ancient Wizard of Kyoto [4 Hours]
FROM$298/ per group
Jay T.
4.33 / 5
(3 reviews)
Kyoto
6 hours
Kyoto, Arashiyama Expedition Walking Tour
The Kyoto, Arashiyama Expedition is a serene journey through Japan's natural beauty, perfect for all ages. Begin in Takao Forest, exploring hidden waterfalls, ancient temples, and secret shrines. Visit the peaceful Otaji Nembutsuji Temple and wander through the stunning bamboo forest. In summer, enjoy a refreshing dip in the Kyotaki River. This off-the-beaten-path tour offers a peaceful escape to Kyoto’s hidden wonders.
Kyoto, Arashiyama Expedition Walking Tour
FROM$264/ per group
Michele S.
5.00 / 5
(3 reviews)
![[Ichijou street] Hanging around east-west street in Kyoto](https://gowithguide.com/images/eu3pdkv9yJ3iKutMcPdeD3CdllgsEGKkMfyBm6LI908/f:avif/h:480/w:480/plain/gowithguide/tours/4801/84818.jpg)
Kyoto
5 hours
[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.
[Ichijou street] Hanging around east-west street in Kyoto
FROM$156/ per group
Yoshiharu K.
4.70 / 5
(63 reviews)
Kyoto Unique Experience Tours
Kyoto
7 hours
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!!
Let's enjoy early morning Kyoto and maiko experience
FROM$271/ per group
Yuriko S.
4.95 / 5
(59 reviews)
Kyoto
8 hours
One day bike tour to southern part of Kyoto, Uji and Fushimi
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.
One day bike tour to southern part of Kyoto, Uji and Fushimi
FROM$473/ per group
Ryuichiro M.
5.00 / 5
(10 reviews)
Kyoto
1 hr 20 mins
Koto Lesson in Nijo,Kyoto
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.
Koto Lesson in Nijo,Kyoto
FROM$61/ per person
Harumi S.
5.00 / 5
(8 reviews)
Kyoto
6 hours
KYOTO - Calligraphy Workshop & Half-day Kyoto Tour
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 - Calligraphy Workshop & Half-day Kyoto Tour
FROM$358/ per group
Mari I.
4.88 / 5
(41 reviews)
Kyoto Food & Drink Tours
Kyoto
4 hours
Kyoto Fushimi Sake & Food Tasting Experience
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.
Kyoto Fushimi Sake & Food Tasting Experience
FROM$57/ per person
Kanae O.
5.00 / 5
(57 reviews)
Kyoto
3 hours
Japanese foods introduction tour
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!!
Japanese foods introduction tour
FROM$156/ per group
Hero I.
4.92 / 5
(52 reviews)
Kyoto
3 hours
KYOTO - A Tailor-Made dining experience for you
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 - A Tailor-Made dining experience for you
FROM$237/ per group
Mari I.
4.88 / 5
(41 reviews)
Kyoto
5 hours
One day tour From Gion to the Nishiki Market
Kyoto is an ancient city, which used to like be the capital of Japan for 1000 years. There are about 1600 temples and 400 shrines and beautiful gardens. It also has a lot of traditional crafts,such as kimono, fans, Japanese artistic sweets. There are a lot of things to do and experience. First of all I will take you to Gion area.I will take you to Yasaka Shrine and Kenninji Temple. Then let's move to the Nishiki market. and have sushi lunch in the market. Gion is the area of entertainment, where there are many bars and taverns. Some important business and political talks have been conducted. You may run across Maiko and Geiko, Japanese entertainers in kimono. If you want to wear Japanese costume in Gion, I can arrange with extra charge. NIshiki market is the kitchen of the Kyoro, where local people buy their everyday food. Fish stores, vegetable stores, pickles stores and so on. A friend of mine owns a Yuba shop in the market. Yuba is vegan, dairy-free ,gluten free,preserve-free, additive-free and protein rich. You can see the yuba making process.
One day tour From Gion to the Nishiki Market
FROM$138/ per group
Toshiyo O.
4.70 / 5
(264 reviews)
Kyoto Nightlife Tours
Kyoto
1 hr 30 mins
Kyoto Night Walking Tour
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.
Kyoto Night Walking Tour
FROM$135/ per group
Eric T.
4.89 / 5
(54 reviews)
Kyoto
5 hours
Kyoto Local Bar & Izakaya Hopping tour
Let's go to Bar & Izakaya restaurant in Kyoto! Kyoto has many unique bars and izakaya restaurants. Have a drink, hang out, and chat with the locals in Kyoto's unique style. Kyoto is a very historic city of art and culture and friendly people who enjoy the nightlife. Let's taste sake, gin, beer, whiskey, wine, and other Kyoto drinks and foods just like the locals.
Kyoto Local Bar & Izakaya Hopping tour
FROM$243/ per group
Koki N.
5.00 / 5
(21 reviews)
Kyoto
3 hours
Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Gion District Exploration
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.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Gion District Exploration
FROM$304/ per group
Ahmed A.
4.73 / 5
(41 reviews)
Kyoto Kids & Family Friendly Tours
Kyoto
4 hours
Enjoy Nintendo for Kids and Gamers
Kyoto is famous for its temples and shrines. If you go with kids, it's hard to have an interest in history for kids. Kyoto has Nintendo headquarters. If you are a fan of Nintendo games, I recommend this tour of places related to Nintendo, led by a storyteller. We will drop by Pokémon Center, the Nintendo Shop, and the Used Toys Shop. You can enjoy shopping also.
Enjoy Nintendo for Kids and Gamers
FROM$237/ per group
Miyu S.
Kyoto
5 hours
A Family Day in Kyoto: All The Best Places
The Ultimate Kyoto Tour: Explore Kyoto’s top sights in just a few hours! We’ll visit Kiyomizu-dera, walk through a bamboo grove at Kodaiji, see a 1,000-year-old shrine, enjoy local shopping, and end the tour with Japanese sake in Pontocho Alley — or swap it for a family-friendly option like a market, mall, or animal café. Great for families, couples, and first-time visitors!
A Family Day in Kyoto: All The Best Places
FROM$304/ per group
Jasmine L.
5.00 / 5
(5 reviews)
Kyoto Shopping Tours
Kyoto
3 hours
Shopping Adventure in Kyoto: Fashion & Souvenirs
Escape the summer heat with this all-indoor shopping adventure! In just 3 hours, explore Kyoto’s best spots for women’s fashion and makeup, sporting goods for men, and cute Japanese character merch for kids—perfect for families or couples. From luxury brands to local treasures, there’s something for everyone. The tour ends at the historic 400-year-old Nishiki Market, where you can relax, recharge, and enjoy Kyoto’s famous street snacks.
Shopping Adventure in Kyoto: Fashion & Souvenirs
FROM$149/ per group
Jasmine L.
5.00 / 5
(5 reviews)
Kyoto
6 hours
Exclusive tour for handmade-lovers and Ginkakuji Temple
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.
Exclusive tour for handmade-lovers and Ginkakuji Temple
FROM$183/ per group
Tomoe S.
4.93 / 5
(144 reviews)
Kyoto Shore Excursion Tours
Kyoto Tour Reviews
L
Lampros S.
5 / 5
Aug 19, 2025
“Kyoto days”
Absolutely the best guide I’ve ever had – knowledgeable, friendly, and made the whole experience unforgettable. Every detail was perfectly explained, and I felt both comfortable and inspired throughout the tour. Highly recommended!”
A
Arsenia T.
5 / 5
Aug 19, 2025
“Arashimaya & kinkakuji tour ”
Very knowledgeable about our tours. Very willing to adjust according to our needs as a senior. Willing to take our pictures. Very accommodating to our needs. We never realized that the tour is a walking tour. Too hot on summer.
Maricel E.
Hello po! Thank you for the excellent review Madam, love you! Stay happy and beautiful!
R
Rian W.
5 / 5
Aug 13, 2025
“An unforgettable day with Joshie – the ideal guide for exploring the city”
We had an unforgettable day exploring Kyoto with our guide, Joshie. His deep knowledge of the country’s culture and history, combined with his background as a teacher, made every moment both engaging and educational. He took the time to explain everything with patience and passion, which really enhanced our experience. The day ended on a high note with a fantastic dinner at a local restaurant, where we got to enjoy great food and conversation together. Joshie is not just a guide — he’s someone who genuinely connects with people. We highly recommend him to anyone looking for a meaningful and memorable tour. Even our children (ages 23, 21, and 17) were thoroughly impressed and became instant fans!
Yoshihisa T.
Hi Rian. I really appreciate your excellent comment on my tour in Kyoto. I am very pleased to learn that you all enjoyed every minute of the day during the tour. I am also glad that you liked the food and the atmosphere of the izakaya for dinner. I hope our paths will cross someday soon during the cherry blossom or autumn foliage season. I wish you the best of luck! Yoshie
All Tours Customizable
Start By Messaging Your Guide
100% Private Tours
Just You and Your Local Tour Guide
Quality Assured Guides
Screened and Verified via Interviews
Private Tours in Kyoto
Unlock the mysteries of Kyoto with a local tour guide! From temples in Gion to lush gardens in Arashiyama, discovering Kyoto’s global appeal is one click away.
Ready to cool off from the day’s heat and high activity? Book a tour to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a mesmerizing forest of towering bamboo stalks. While a popular destination, private tour guides can lead you off the beaten path to explore lesser-known trails and rest stops, allowing you and your travel team to escape the crowds and rest in the peaceful ambiance of the grove.
Beyond the visual appeal, your Kyoto tour guide can share stories about the significance of bamboo in Japanese culture overall, and help you gain appreciation for Arashiyama's natural beauty in a more intimate way.