/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/13828/061360b9-71bd-4b17-929b-01ba6c99828b.JPG)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/13828/7a1ef474-b1fa-42e6-aecd-da6f235f15b3.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/13828/098e5ab0-f064-432e-9416-5c00125b798e.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/13828/e3fbeb5b-47c6-4ba0-b20f-9394547caaaa.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/13828/274838f5-7fab-4e32-8d9b-a36b0e5c0b57.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/13828/60d1cfba-5614-427d-88b1-4a5dfea96cfa.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/13828/d6bc9da8-e08c-45a5-a66f-46fe96f62d83.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/13828/c4e5e825-370a-40a5-bcba-5c84222722b8.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/13828/7bfac98f-bd5d-4619-8706-79dd129e7f40.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/13828/790c8df1-c8e2-4a47-bf12-c6ab26705352.jpg)
Kyoto Early Bird Highlights with Car Service
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/46547/13e78146-dabf-401d-9a02-2237166e2b97.png)
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 famous shrines, known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates leading up Mount Inari. Dedicated to the Shinto deity of prosperity and business success, it offers a unique and mystical atmosphere.
Arashiyama Area (Bamboo Forest)
Once a retreat area for aristocrats and priests, Arashiyama still retains a charming atmosphere today. Famous for its bamboo forest, the area attracts many visitors, but I’ll also take you to some quieter, authentic temples away from the crowds.
Kinkakuji-Temple (Golden Pavilion)
Originally built as a retirement villa for shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu in 1397, Kinkaku-ji is now one of Kyoto’s most iconic temples. Famous for its golden pavilion reflected on the pond, the temple is also known for its beautiful strolling garden. It was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994.
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine and Kamishichiken Geisha District
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, with over 1000 years of history, is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of learning and scholarship. Famous for its beautiful plum blossoms, the shrine offers a peaceful atmosphere in northwest Kyoto. Nearby is Kamishichiken, one of Kyoto’s oldest Geisha districts, known for its traditional and authentic 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 or a restaurant 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
Sue B.
“Highlight of our trip and most memorable experience ever!”
I can’t express how incredible my experience with our guide, Kanae, was during our private tour exploring my heritage in Japan. I am a sansei (third-generation Japanese American), and my family and I decided to splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Japan. Kanae picked us up at our hotel in Kyoto and drove us to Shiga Prefecture, where we visited the castle ruins connected to my ancestors. She also helped interpret for me at the local historical museum and city hall. Kanae was so kind and generous with her time and knowledge, and she was incredibly easy to communicate with. She tailored our tour exactly to what I had dreamed of and went far beyond our expectations. Our full day with Kanae was the highlight of my trip. I will always be grateful to her for her kindness and for introducing me to the beauty and hospitality of Japan.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/46547/13e78146-dabf-401d-9a02-2237166e2b97.png)
Kanae O.
Sue, thank you so much for your incredibly kind words. It was truly an honor to be a part of your heritage journey and to help you connect with your family history in Shiga. Seeing the places connected to your ancestors and learning more about your roots was a special experience for me as well. I am so happy that the day became a meaningful part of your trip to Japan. Thank you for trusting me with such an important experience. Meeting you and your family was a real pleasure, and I will always remember our time together. I wish you and your family all the very best, and I hope you will have the opportunity to visit Japan again someday.
Lindsay D.
“Quiet temples and beautiful gardens”
We had a great day with Kanae visiting some less touristic temples with serene and beautiful gardens. It was lovely to have fewer crowds after a hectic day visiting the more touristic sights the day before. Being able to use her car to get around was a bonus which we really appreciated. Kanae is an excellent guide who has a lot of knowledge, she has a friendly outgoing manner and we would not hesitate to recommend her to others.
Kanae O.
Lindsay, thank you so much for your lovely review. I’m very happy to hear that you enjoyed visiting Kyoto’s quieter temples and beautiful gardens after the busy sightseeing spots. It was a pleasure spending the day with both of you. Thank you again for your kind words and recommendation. It was wonderful meeting you, and I hope to see you again if you ever return to Japan.
Jennifer G.
“Great day with Kanae!”
Kanae was an excellent host for our day of sightseeing. She was knowledgable and we had great conversations about life in Japan. We packed so much into our day with her that we couldn’t have done on our own. We are very grateful to her for showing us around her beautiful hometown!
Kanae O.
Dear Jennifer, Thank you very much for your kind and thoughtful review. I truly appreciate your words. I had a wonderful time with both of you and really enjoyed spending the day together. It was a pleasure showing you around Kyoto, and I’m so glad we were able to make the most of the day and visit so many places. Your interest and openness made the experience even more enjoyable for me. Thank you again for choosing me as your guide. I hope you had a great time throughout your trip in Japan—and next time, please don’t forget to try aburi mochi! Warm regards, Kanae
$262/ per group
More tours by Kanae O.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/14966/c26a63da-1282-4ab0-844d-48ff2891cd96.jpg)
Serene Temples with enchanting Gardens Tour
Are you tired of the crowds at all the popular tourist sites in Kyoto? Join me on an excursion to my favorite region, Ohara, located in the northeastern part of the city, where you can experience the tranquil countryside ambiance. In Ohara, I will introduce you to three of the most charming temples, each offering a serene atmosphere and enchanting gardens in every season. Upon request, I can also take you to a local restaurant where you can savor traditional cuisine.
Serene Temples with enchanting Gardens Tour
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/16701/9687002c-50e9-4ce3-9698-3f4773fba35f.jpg)
Another Side of Kyoto: Exploring Uji and Wazuka – Home of Japanese Green Tea
This tour will show you a different side of Kyoto—peaceful, uncrowded, and surrounded by nature. We will explore the Uji area, often called the 'Kyoto of Green Tea,' where you can admire the breathtaking scenery of tea plantations. Along the way, we’ll visit Byodo-in Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as Shojyuin Temple, a small yet charming gem.
Another Side of Kyoto: Exploring Uji and Wazuka – Home of Japanese Green Tea
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/13747/56657057-2b61-486b-912d-e99c61b1868f.jpg)
Kyoto Early Bird Trekking Ending with Ramen
Departing from Kyoto City Subway’s Keage Station, we will pass by Himukai Daijingu Shrine before making our way towards Mt. Daimonjiyama. As we ascend to the mountain's peak, you'll be greeted with panoramic views of Kyoto, stretching as far as Osaka. After descending towards Imadegawa Street, our journey will conclude at a charming local ramen restaurant.
Kyoto Early Bird Trekking Ending with Ramen
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/16702/dee326d8-cb0f-4032-a6c6-8f07ecabc8cd.jpg)