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
Glenis G.
“Wonderful time with Kanae”
We had the most amazing day with Kanae. She was friendly and approachable and thoughtful. She was so knowledgeable about Kyoto and took us to Temples and Shrines that were not touristy and we were so appreciative of the peace and being able to experience the culture and history . Kanae constantly ensured that we were happy with the tour and would have changed some of the itinerary but everything was perfect . She made our day interesting as well ans relaxing and we have lovely memories of our time with her in Kyoto . Thank you so much.
Daniel G.
“Kyoto - Tokyo Shinkansen ”
The last thing I need whilst making my way from Kyoto to Tokyo, on a day I am going to fly, is anxiety. When Kanae met me at my hotel first thing in the morning, I was immediately at ease. Kanae was kind, full of smiles and professional. We made our way to Kyoto Station via taxi and Kanae assisted me in purchasing my bullet train tickets and Narita Express tickets. While accompanying me on the journey to Tokyo station, I was never more relaxed, being in the hands of a professional, in a country where English is not widely spoken. Kanae made sure I got on the Narita Express as we bid farewell.
Kanae O.
Daniel, thank you so much for your kind words. I'm really glad I could help make your travel day smooth and stress-free. Wishing you safe and happy travels always!
Bridget G.
“Incredible Sites and Perfect Guide!”
I cannot say enough good things about Kanae. From the moment she picked us up from the hotel, her warmth and professionalism was evident. The temples she took us to were all some of the most stunning temples we visited during our time in Japan, and all off the beaten path so no crowds. In fact, we were the only ones there at the first! Kanae is also incredibly knowledgable about the history and traditions at each temple. Afterwards, she took us to her favorite ramen spot in Kyoto and it did not disappoint... I'm still dreaming of the food I had there. Thank you so much, Kanae!
Kanae O.
Bridget,thank you so much for your kind and generous review. It truly means a lot. I’m so glad you enjoyed the peaceful temples and that the ramen hit the spot—it's one of my favorites too! Sharing these hidden gems with both of you was such a joy. I hope your memories of Japan stay with you for a long time, and maybe one day we’ll explore even more together! et,
$252/ per group
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