Kyoto Early Bird Highlights with Car Service
Joined 2023
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.
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 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
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, please bring cash)
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 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 during the tour.
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
Lynn H.
“Kanae is one of the best guides we have ever experienced ”
Kanae truly went out of her way to ensure we had a wonderful time visiting Kyoto. Having her drive us around made things so much easier, especially for my somewhat mobility challenged husband. Her pleasant demeanor, coupled with her knowledge of the history of her culture and excellent command of English made our day visiting Kyoto not only enjoyable but also very educational as well. She also showed us some hidden gems that were very special and not too crowded.
Melissa H.
“The perfect tour guide!”
We loved Kanae!!! We wanted a one full day customized tour of Kyoto seeing all the major sites while trying to avoid the crowds, and also having a sprinkling of more local off the beaten path places. Kanae exceeded our expectations in every way! Not only with the communication leading up to our tour day, but also as we were with her. We truly enjoyed spending time with her in addition to going through her well curated itinerary. She spoke really well English and wish and drove us to the different locations which was also greatly appreciated. Highly recommend Kanae!!!
Kanae O.
Melissa, thank you so much for your wonderful review! I’m so happy to hear that you enjoyed the day and the balance of famous sites and more local, hidden spots. It was a real pleasure spending time with you and your husband, and guiding both of you through Kyoto. I'm glad the itinerary and transportation made your experience comfortable and enjoyable. Your kind words and recommendation mean a lot—thank you again, and I hope to welcome you back to Kyoto in the future!
Yian J.
“Fantastic guide would recommend to family and friends traveling to Kyoto ”
Kanae is born and raised in Kyoto, she is very knowledgeable, besides sites we have requested, she designed the itinerary to include beautiful and yet less touristy locations to avoid big crowds. She was very accommodating to our last minute itinerary changes as well. Good communication through out the booking process. I would definitely recommend her.
Kanae O.
Yian, thank you so much for your kind review. I'm really glad you enjoyed the mix of well-known and quieter spots—we were lucky to have such a lovely day together. It was a pleasure tailoring the itinerary to your interests and adapting along the way. I truly appreciate your thoughtful words and recommendation. Wishing you all the best and hope to see you again in Kyoto someday!
$246/ per group
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