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Kyoto Early Bird Highlights with Car Service
Joined 2023
Join me on this tour as we explore four 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.
Itinerary
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 Yamashina station
- I will pick you up at your hotel if it is located in Kyoto city. Otherwise, please meet me in front of JR Yamashina station, which is the next station east of JR Kyoto station.
Arashiyama (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.
Ryoanji Temple
The garden at Ryoanji Temple is renowned as one of Japan's most famous, embodying the essence of Buddhist Zen philosophy. Composed solely of white pebbles, stones, rocks, and moss, this 'dry landscape garden' evokes a profound sense of tranquility. Sitting quietly while gazing upon its minimalist beauty often leads to moments of Zen delight, with interpretations left open to the imagination. Recognizing its cultural significance, the temple was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1994.
Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion)
Originally an aristocrat's cottage, Ashikaga Yoshimitsu transformed this site into his renowned retirement villa in 1397, later converted 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
Want to personalize this tour?
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
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)
Meals (Breakfast and lunch- about 15 USD per person)
Travel insurance (The guide is not responsible for any accidents that occur during the tour)
Tour Important Information
*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 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.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
Joined 2023
About Tour Guide Kanae O.
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.
Reviews
Gary W.
Kyoto Early Bird Highlights with Car Service
“Early bird highlights with car”
Our tour with Kanae was an absolute delight. From the moment she met my wife and I (in her car) at our hotel it was like meeting a close friend. In absolutely clear fluent English we were able to chat about many topics regarding her hometown of Kyoto as well as her family life and comparisons to our own lives in Europe. Based on Kanae’s suggestions we were able to flex the tour and see and experience things that were not in the original schedule. We went for a ramen lunch in a fabulous little family owned restaurant that we never have ventured into (or even found) without her. Cannot recommend Kanae enough to anyone wanting a guide in Kyoto. Brilliant experience from start to finish. Thank you so much.
Kanae O.
(22 reviews)Gary, thank you so much for your wonderful review. I am touched by your kind words. It was an absolute pleasure guiding you and Jenny. I really enjoyed spending time and chatting with both of you. I am also glad to know that you also found my favorite ramen restaurant fabulous! Thank you again for booking with me this time, and I would be thrilled to welcome you back to Kyoto for another tour in the future!
Shan L.
Kyoto Two-Day Blend of Highlights and Local Life
Customized
“Unforgettable holiday in Kyoto with Kanae”
Kanae is a very friendly, lovely mother with 2 children who lives in Kyoto. We booked her for 2 two-day customized tour. She didn't pack us into a tight schedule but really spent time walking us through the historical places in Kyoto. She drove us around the city and always prepared enough water for the hot days. As a Japanese, she speaks very good English, which helps us a lot in making reservation in restaurant or shopping. She also explained a lot about the history and culture behind the buildings and the people as well as the authentic local food. She is a pleasant person and we really appreciate her guidance for our stay in Kyoto.
Kanae O.
(22 reviews)Shan, thank you so much for your kind words and wonderful review! It was truly a pleasure guiding you and your family around Kyoto. I really enjoyed your company. You made me feel that I was showing my dear friends around Kyoto, and I learned a lot from your deep insights into everything. I hope to see you again on your next trip to Japan!
Giovanni S.
Kyoto Half-Day Tour: Highlights, Nature, and Historic Town Walk
Customized
“Kind and prepared”
Kanae was so helpful and caring, she pampered us and made our experience fabulous. We had a custom tailored tour, and she started perfectly in time. She accompanied us along the tour, explaining in perfect English the history and some fun facts of the the things along the route. She was always kind and worrying about us, if we understood all or we were comfortable. She managed our lunch and it was exquisite. I would absolutely recommend Kanae as guide in Kyoto.
Kanae O.
(22 reviews)Giovanni, thank you so much for your kind and generous review. I was really impressed by how organized you were in planning your trip to Japan. I am sure your thorough research before coming made your experience even more enjoyable, and I learned a lot about appreciating the journey from you. I had a wonderful time with all of you. You have such a beautiful family, and spending time with you was an absolute pleasure. I hope to see you again here in Kyoto!
