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- Car Tour (driving guide)
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
“Perfect Day in Kyoto”
A great day visiting the sites in Kyoto with Kanae. After booking kanae, I received a message from her asking what we wanted to see in Kyoto. She put together a well planned itinerary and made sure we hit all the hot spots plus several off the beaten path. Kanae was the perfect guide for us; just the right amount of information about the sites without overwhelming us with all the details and history. Her diverse background and world travel allowed Kanae to connect eastern culture with western travelers. She is fluent in English and it was easy to have and hold a conversation with her. We Would highly recommend working/guiding with Kanae if you’re looking to see the sites in Kyoto.
“Experience Temple Tranquility ”
Kanae is a most wonderful guide who is perfect for showing you temples that will transform you with their beauty. These temples are in the lovely Northeast of Kyoto where you can be away from the crowds and sink into the atmosphere of places of contemplation, some of which are from the Heian Era of a thousand years ago. Kanae's English is excellent, and her knowledge of the area makes her a most marvelous companion to enjoy stepping back in time where you can experience these beautiful and serene temples and gardens. I can say with confidence that you will have a wonderful time.
Gloria angelica R.
Kyoto and Nara Early Bird Highlights Car Tour
Customized
“Excellent guide ”
We want to thank Kanae for her excellent guiding service on a two-day private tour of Nara and the bamboo forest. With great warmth and quality he showed us the natural beauties of his beautiful country, particularly in the Kyoto area. We highly recommend it. Alberto and Gloria
$239/ per group
Reserve
