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.
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At your hotel or JR Kyoto station
- I will pick you up at your hotel if it is located in Kyoto city. Otherwise, please meet me at JR Kyoto station, or Yamashina station, which is the next station east of JR Kyoto station.
Fushimi Inari Shrine
Fushimi Inari Shrine is one of Kyoto’s most iconic Shinto shrines, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that form a stunning pathway up Mount Inari. Dedicated to Inari, the Shinto deity of rice, prosperity, and business success, the shrine dates back to 711 AD. It serves as the head shrine of the many Inari shrines across Japan. Visitors can explore the scenic trails, admire fox statues (Inari’s messengers), and experience a mystical atmosphere, especially in the early morning or late evening.
Arashiyama Area (Bamboo Forest)
Once a cottage country for aristocrats and priests, this area still retains its charming rural atmosphere today. Despite being a popular tourist destination, the allure of a bamboo forest draws many visitors. Amidst the crowds, I'll lead you to some of my favorite small yet authentic temples, offering a quieter and more genuine experience.
Kinkakuji-Temple (Golden Pavilion)
Originally an aristocrat's cottage, Ashikaga Yoshimitsu transformed this site into his renowned retirement villa in 1397, later converting it into a temple. Over the centuries, it has become one of Kyoto's most iconic temples, drawing countless tourists each year. The temple's garden is also famed for its beauty. As you stroll through the promenade-style garden, you'll marvel at the views of the pavilion and Kyoko-pond, also known as the 'mirror-lake pond,' from various vantage points. The temple was designated as UNESCO's World Heritage site in 1994.
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine and Kamishichiken Geisha District
Nestled in the northwest of Kyoto city, the Kitano Tenmangu Shrine boasts a rich history spanning over 1000 years. This shrine holds the distinction of being the very first in Japanese history to enshrine an actual person as a deity, renowned for his love of plum blossoms. As a result, the shrine features a stunning plum tree garden where visitors can revel in the beauty of the blossoms during March.
Adjacent to the shrine lies Kamishichiken, one of Kyoto's five Geisha districts. Unlike more touristy areas, Kamishichiken offers an authentic glimpse into traditional Geisha culture, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in its genuine charm.
Ending Point
Your hotel or a destination of your preference
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Guide fee
Hotel pick-up, toll, fuel, parking
Transportation between locations by Honda Vezel 4 seaters
Admission fees for temples (about 500-700 yen per temple, please bring cash)
Travel insurance (The guide is not responsible for any accidents that occur during the tour)
*Although the guide will drive you between sites, please be aware that the tour entails a considerable amount of walking. Therefore, it's advisable to wear comfortable shoes.
* The car can accommodate four people besides the driver; however, you may find the rear seat to be somewhat cramped and less comfortable. If your group has more than four people, please contact the guide before booking.
* If your hotel does not have sufficient parking space, I may ask you to wait in front of your hotel for pick-up.
* The guide does not pick up guests outside Kyoto city or from the Cruise terminal.
This tour does not include a designated lunch break. However, if you’d like something to eat, we can stop at a food shop or a restaurant during the tour.
Hello! I am Kanae, a nationally licensed guide. While working full-time as a lecturer at a local university in Kyoto, I have also been guiding for two years.
Born and raised in Kyoto, I am excited to share the beauty and culture of my hometown with my customers. Kyoto is an enchanting city, and even as a local, I am continually fascinated by its many charming spots. Whether it's the serene temples, vibrant markets, or hidden gems, there is always something new to explore and appreciate in this wonderful city.
Also, since my home is close to Shiga Prefecture, I am very familiar with the area. While Shiga may not be as popular as Kyoto, it offers a wealth of attractions for tourists. From historical sites such as temples and shrines to the stunning natural beauty of Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan, there is much to see and do. I am passionate about promoting Shiga and sharing its unique charm with visitors.
Dmitry L.
“Hidden Gems ”
We had a wonderful tour day with Kanae: she brought us to some less visited temples and truly enchanted gardens. She is very knowledgeable and friendly - she knows Kyoto very well and enthusiastically shared that knowledge with us. She even gave us some great advice on various sites of interest to explore on the following days. She is a very good guide and we enjoyed our tour with her a lot! Dmitry,Lisa
Kanae O.
Thank you so much, Dmitry and Lisa! I’m delighted to hear you enjoyed the tour and the gardens and temples we visited. I was also really impressed by both of your deep insight into Japanese culture and history, as well as your great fitness. It was an absolute pleasure guiding you both!
Cheridyn F.
“Good Times”
Our Kyoto adventure was amazing! The bamboo forest was hands-down our favorite — calming and magical. Since we’re not big on photos, we had extra time and Kanae made a stop at a local shopping district. We browsed shops, sampled sake, and even tried pickles on a stick — such a fun detour. The car service made everything seamless, and Kanae was incredibly accommodating. It felt less like a tour and more like being shown around by a local friend. Highly recommend!
Kanae O.
Cheridyn, Thank you so much for taking your valuable time to write such a generous and kind review. I’m so happy to hear you enjoyed our Kyoto adventure! It was such a pleasure exploring with you both, and I loved our little detour to the shopping district together. Thank you for being such fun and easygoing guests. I hope you made some great memories in Japan!
Tom J.
“Like visiting the family”
From start to finish our visit felt like we were visiting a family member/relative. Kanae is a Kyoto local so this is”home” for her. From the pickup at the airport, talking about the day ahead, making some adjustments based on weather, eating at local restaurants, visiting a couple of non-touristy spots, made the full day special and unique. Never rushed or mundane. Easy going, flexible, knowledgeable and family friendly.
Kanae O.
Tom, thank you so much for your kind words! I’m thrilled that you felt at home and enjoyed the day’s pace and local experiences. It was a pleasure exploring Kyoto with you and your daughter, and I hope to welcome you back again someday!
$247/ per group