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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!

Tatsuhiro N.

It took me some 20 years to be qualified for this job and I feel honored for being able to help tourists from abroad understand our nation and culture. Japan is a beautiful country with a long history, tradition and rich cultural heritages, having various features in each of the four distinct seasons. Although there are now many visitors from abroad, mainly from Asian countries, they are mostly interested in shopping taking advantage of cheaper yen rather than understanding our people and culture. Kyoto and Nara are the two cities best known by foreign tourists, but not all the aspects of Japanese culture are concentrated there. If you visit the countryside other than these two cities, you will never fail to see the beautiful natural surroundings and people who will warmly welcome you. I wish to work as the bridge between Japanese people and tourists from all over the world.

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.

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.

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!

Tatsuhiro N.

It took me some 20 years to be qualified for this job and I feel honored for being able to help tourists from abroad understand our nation and culture. Japan is a beautiful country with a long history, tradition and rich cultural heritages, having various features in each of the four distinct seasons. Although there are now many visitors from abroad, mainly from Asian countries, they are mostly interested in shopping taking advantage of cheaper yen rather than understanding our people and culture. Kyoto and Nara are the two cities best known by foreign tourists, but not all the aspects of Japanese culture are concentrated there. If you visit the countryside other than these two cities, you will never fail to see the beautiful natural surroundings and people who will warmly welcome you. I wish to work as the bridge between Japanese people and tourists from all over the world.

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.

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.

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

Premium tour of Kyoto (1) : Arashiyama, Nijo-jo Castle & Kinkakuji temple

Premium tour of Kyoto (1) : Arashiyama, Nijo-jo Castle & Kinkakuji temple

Why not enjoy your holidays in Kyoto? You can certainly get in touch with many things Japanese that we are proud of. They are old temples and shrines, cultural assets and the beautiful natural surroundings. You can also enjoy dropping in at souvenir stores and buy exquisitely made products, such as folding fans, porcelain and traditional Japanese cakes. I would like to take you to the following places, which are the three representative tourist destinations in this city: (1) Arashiyama It is the place where all the traditional natural beauties of Japan are combined together. They are Togetsukyo bridge, bamboo grove and the old temples. If you go up to the observation spot, you can enjoy the magnificent view of the gorge below. You can also see rickshaws of the olden times drawn by young people with smiling passengers on board. There are souvenir shops selling variety of goods and products. (2) Nijo-jo Castle (World Cultural Heritage Site) This castle was built in the early 17th century by the Tokugawa Shogunate government for the purpose of protecting the Kyoto Imperial Palace and as the accommodations when Tokugawa Shogun was in Kyoto. It was subsequently enlarged by successive Shogun. It is the castle as well as the palace, where you can see the powerful structures and beautiful gardens. You can learn, in addition, how great the power of Tokugawa Shogun was. (3) Kinkakuji temple (the Golden Pavilion) (World Cultural Heritage Site) The history of this temple began when the third Shogun of the Muromachi period acquired a tract of land in this area from a powerful statesman in 1397 and built a villa of his own to entertain the Emperor and members of the nobility. The upper two levels of the temple are covered with pieces of gold foil and are shining brilliantly against the background of the rich greenery. The pond in the foreground reflects the golden structure. It looks like the materialization of Pure Land of Buddha in this world. In addition, on the top of the golden structure is the shining phoenix.

Premium tour of Kyoto (1) : Arashiyama, Nijo-jo Castle & Kinkakuji temple

FROM$202/ per group

FROM$202/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Tatsuhiro N.

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$269/ per group

FROM$269/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Yasuhisa K.

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$195/ per group

FROM$195/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Fumi U.

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$337/ per group

FROM$337/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Shuji O.

Premium tour of Kyoto (1) : Arashiyama, Nijo-jo Castle & Kinkakuji temple

Premium tour of Kyoto (1) : Arashiyama, Nijo-jo Castle & Kinkakuji temple

Why not enjoy your holidays in Kyoto? You can certainly get in touch with many things Japanese that we are proud of. They are old temples and shrines, cultural assets and the beautiful natural surroundings. You can also enjoy dropping in at souvenir stores and buy exquisitely made products, such as folding fans, porcelain and traditional Japanese cakes. I would like to take you to the following places, which are the three representative tourist destinations in this city: (1) Arashiyama It is the place where all the traditional natural beauties of Japan are combined together. They are Togetsukyo bridge, bamboo grove and the old temples. If you go up to the observation spot, you can enjoy the magnificent view of the gorge below. You can also see rickshaws of the olden times drawn by young people with smiling passengers on board. There are souvenir shops selling variety of goods and products. (2) Nijo-jo Castle (World Cultural Heritage Site) This castle was built in the early 17th century by the Tokugawa Shogunate government for the purpose of protecting the Kyoto Imperial Palace and as the accommodations when Tokugawa Shogun was in Kyoto. It was subsequently enlarged by successive Shogun. It is the castle as well as the palace, where you can see the powerful structures and beautiful gardens. You can learn, in addition, how great the power of Tokugawa Shogun was. (3) Kinkakuji temple (the Golden Pavilion) (World Cultural Heritage Site) The history of this temple began when the third Shogun of the Muromachi period acquired a tract of land in this area from a powerful statesman in 1397 and built a villa of his own to entertain the Emperor and members of the nobility. The upper two levels of the temple are covered with pieces of gold foil and are shining brilliantly against the background of the rich greenery. The pond in the foreground reflects the golden structure. It looks like the materialization of Pure Land of Buddha in this world. In addition, on the top of the golden structure is the shining phoenix.

Premium tour of Kyoto (1) : Arashiyama, Nijo-jo Castle & Kinkakuji temple

FROM$202/ per group

FROM$202/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Tatsuhiro N.

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$269/ per group

FROM$269/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Yasuhisa K.

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$195/ per group

FROM$195/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Fumi U.

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$337/ per group

FROM$337/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Shuji O.

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$303/ per group

FROM$303/ 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$377/ per group

FROM$377/ 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$303/ per group

FROM$303/ 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$195/ per group

FROM$195/ 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$303/ per group

FROM$303/ 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$377/ per group

FROM$377/ 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$303/ per group

FROM$303/ 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$195/ per group

FROM$195/ 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$175/ per group

FROM$175/ 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$253/ per group

FROM$253/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Kanae O.

Comfortable Kyoto Van Tour (4–7 Guests): See All the Must-Sees, Hassle-Free

Comfortable Kyoto Van Tour (4–7 Guests): See All the Must-Sees, Hassle-Free

Kyoto is beautiful, but walking long distances and moving between sights can be tiring. This tour makes it easy. Ride in a van taxi. While crowds can’t always be avoided, you’ll save time and energy between stops. Visit famous spots like Fushimi Inari, Golden Temple, and Bamboo Forests with your guide who is a Instagram influencer can also take amazing photos of your trip.

Comfortable Kyoto Van Tour (4–7 Guests): See All the Must-Sees, Hassle-Free

FROM$674/ per group

FROM$674/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Yuta I.

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$741/ per group

FROM$741/ 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$175/ per group

FROM$175/ 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$253/ per group

FROM$253/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Kanae O.

Comfortable Kyoto Van Tour (4–7 Guests): See All the Must-Sees, Hassle-Free

Comfortable Kyoto Van Tour (4–7 Guests): See All the Must-Sees, Hassle-Free

Kyoto is beautiful, but walking long distances and moving between sights can be tiring. This tour makes it easy. Ride in a van taxi. While crowds can’t always be avoided, you’ll save time and energy between stops. Visit famous spots like Fushimi Inari, Golden Temple, and Bamboo Forests with your guide who is a Instagram influencer can also take amazing photos of your trip.

Comfortable Kyoto Van Tour (4–7 Guests): See All the Must-Sees, Hassle-Free

FROM$674/ per group

FROM$674/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Yuta I.

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$741/ per group

FROM$741/ per group

Japan Tour Guide - Yoshiroh N.

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Kyoto Tour Reviews

Ian B.

5 / 5

Sep 3, 2025

Kyoto Historical Tour --- Memory of Emperor & Shogun

“Enjoyable & informative day exploring Kyoto castles, palaces and temples”

We very much enjoyed our day with Makoto. The sites visited were an interesting selection where we could learn more about Japanese history and culture. Makoto is a very thoughtful guide, providing us with material to take home as well as a momento of our day together. Having Makoto guide us between the four sites made the day so much more seamless than if we’d tried to do it ourselves.

Makoto Y.

Dear Ian, Thank you very much for your nice comments. It was so hot today but I have enjoyed the tour with you as you are so keen to learn about the Japanese history and culture. Also you brought good memory of England and U.S. for which I enjoyed very much. It was amazing that you enjoyed "Ochazuke" (rice with tea), and "Kakizouri" (shaved ice), which is typical Japanese food. You fit Japanese culture so well and quickly. I am sure that you find more of Japanese culture and food in your trip. Thanks again for your choosing me of your guide this time. Makoto

L

Linda C.

5 / 5

Sep 3, 2025

Kyoto 4-hour tour

Customized

“Outstanding VIP Tour Arrangement by Michiko-san””

We urgently needed to arrange a VIP guest tour, and Michiko-san was able to accommodate even the most difficult requests. Although the payment was not completed until the day before the tour, Michiko-san kindly understood our hotel’s circumstances. Our VIP were extremely satisfied with Michiko-san’s service, and we would very much like to request her support again in the future.

Michiko T.

Dear Linda, thank you for the wonderful review! It was my great honor to be chosen as a guide for your guests. It has become an unforgettable experience to see Kyoto with such friendly and considerate guests on the very hot 2 days. I hope these 2 days will also leave them beautiful impression. I look forward to working together again!

T

Talia E.

5 / 5

Sep 2, 2025

Kyoto 2 half day tour on 19 & 20 Aug

Customized

“Super helpful guide! ”

Kaori was great with our group of 11 - patient with us as we made our way (sometimes slowly) and also engaging with our teens and kids. Helpful in thinking about ways to beat the heat too...Would definitely recommend!

Kaori K.

Hi Talia! Thank you for your comment :)) It was fun 2days with your family and friends! We followed the instinct more than plan! That was great part of our time I believe lol I wish you all had unforgettable memories in Japan! Kaori

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