Kyoto Early Bird Highlights with Car Service
Join me on this early morning tour to discover five of Kyoto's must-see sights before the crowds arrive. Travel comfortably by car as your knowledgeable guide drives you between each destination, allowing you to save time and energy while making the most of your visit. It's also an ideal way to explore Kyoto during the hot summer months, with less walking between attractions and more time to enjoy the city's beauty and history.
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?
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/46547/13e78146-dabf-401d-9a02-2237166e2b97.png)
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
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
Iris S.
“Relaxing Kyoto”
Travelling with Ms Kanae was a joy. As she drove her own car, my elderly mum and I were able to explore beautiful Kyoto at a leisurely pace and visited most attractions before the crowds. Ms Kanae is patient, knowlegable and spoke perfect English. We felt like travelling with a Japanese friend. :)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/46547/13e78146-dabf-401d-9a02-2237166e2b97.png)
Kanae O.
Iris, thank you so much for your kind review! It was such a pleasure meeting you both. I was truly impressed by your mum's energy and determination in the summer heat. She did an amazing job! I'm so glad we had the chance to spend the day together, and I hope you both have many wonderful memories of Kyoto. Wishing you safe travels, and I hope our paths cross again someday!
Ana cristina G.
“ Kanae is an Exceptional Kyoto Tour Guide - Highly Recommended ️”
We had an amazing experience exploring Kyoto's temples and historical sites with Kanae as our guide. This tour exceeded our expectations in every way. WHAT MADE THIS TOUR SPECIAL: Professional Service & Punctuality: Kanae picked us up from our hotel at 7:30 AM sharp. Throughout the day, she was incredibly punctual and professional, ensuring we made the most of our limited time in Kyoto. Comprehensive Knowledge: Kanae provided fascinating explanations of every temple and historical site we visited. She shared not just facts, but the cultural significance and historical context that brought each place to life. Local Insider Access: What impressed us most was how Kanae took us beyond the typical tourist trail. She showed us hidden gems and lesser-known locations that most visitors never discover. We experienced Kyoto like locals, not tourists, which completely changed how we saw the city. Authentic Experiences: We had a extra stop in a sake tasting. These moments felt genuine and connected us to Kyoto's culture in meaningful ways. Convenience & Efficiency: Having Kanae drive us throughout the day was invaluable. Door-to-door service from our hotel meant we weren't tired by the end of the day, and we accomplished much more than we would have independently. OVERALL ASSESSMENT: This is a full-day tour that's perfect if you only have a few days in Kyoto. It's completely worth the time investment. We've traveled for over 3 years around the world, and this ranks as one of the best experiences we've had in any destination. Kanae is not just knowledgeable—she's engaging, fun, and genuinely passionate about sharing her city. She responds quickly to inquiries and makes the entire process seamless. If you're visiting Kyoto, we highly recommend booking this tour with Kanae. You'll see the city through a local's eyes, and you'll leave with memories and connections that go far beyond typical tourism. Rating: 10/10 - Absolutely Worth It, Happy travel “Davana World Tour”
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/46547/13e78146-dabf-401d-9a02-2237166e2b97.png)
Kanae O.
Ana and Dave, thank you so much for your incredibly thoughtful and detailed review. It truly means a lot to me that you took the time to share your experience. It was an absolute pleasure spending the day with you both. I especially enjoyed hearing about your travels around the world. Your stories were so interesting, and spending the day with such fun and wonderful travelers made it even more memorable for me. Thank you again for your kindness, and I hope the memories you made in Kyoto stay with you for many years to come. Wishing you both many more amazing adventures!
David M.
“Fantastic Tour of Kyoto Highlights ”
Great communication before and during the tour. I learned a lot about Kyoto and the car service enabled seeing many sights efficiently and also provided relief for the hot temperatures. Kanae was thoughtful in adapting for conditions and made me feel welcomed. Highly recommended!
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/46547/13e78146-dabf-401d-9a02-2237166e2b97.png)
Kanae O.
David, thank you so much for your wonderful review! It was a pleasure spending the day with you, and I'm so glad you enjoyed exploring Kyoto with me. Thank you also for sharing such beautiful photos. They brought back wonderful memories of the day! I hope you enjoy the rest of your travels in Japan, and I would love to welcome you back to Kyoto someday.
$265/ 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)
/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)