Kyoto Uncovered: Full-Day Private Experience for First-Time Visitors
Joined 2017
Unveil the magic of Kyoto with our "Kyoto Uncovered: Full-Day Private Experience for First-Time Visitors." This exclusive tour offers a comprehensive introduction to Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
This private tour ensures a personalized and unforgettable experience, perfect for first-time visitors.
Highlights:
Bamboo grove , Fushimi Inari shrine, old streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, Nijo castle and Kinkaku-ji, Gion area and Geisha spotting streets.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Any place inside Kyoto city
- Any place inside Kyoto city * The guide will meet you at your hotel inside Kyoto. If outside, please let us know. * We provide shore excursion services from Osaka or Kobe ports for an additional fee, payable directly to the driver of the hired vehicle. Please be aware that the itinerary may be adjusted to fit your schedule and preferences.
Bamboo Grove & Nonomiya Shrine in Arashiyama
Explore the enchanting Bamboo Forest Grove in Arashiyama, a must-see destination on your tour. Stroll through towering bamboo stalks that sway gently in the breeze, creating a tranquil and otherworldly atmosphere. The forest's dense, green canopy filters sunlight, casting a serene glow that enhances the magical experience.
Next, visit Nonomiya Shrine, a historic Shinto shrine known for its serene setting and ancient traditions. Discover its beautiful architecture and lush surroundings.
This picturesque grove offers the perfect setting for a peaceful walk, surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature. Capture stunning photographs and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of one of Kyoto’s most iconic and breathtaking landscapes.
Kinkaku-ji Temple
Also known as the Temple of the Golden Pavilion, built in 1397 as a three-story Zen temple in northern Kyoto. The temple is famous for having its top two floors completely covered in gold leaf and framed by pine trees, with its reflection glistening in a pristine pond. The temple had an impressive structure built overlooking a large pond and is registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site.
Nij Castle
A UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site and one of the most famous spots in Kyoto. The castle functioned as a second home for the Tokugawa shogun who stayed here when he visited Kyoto and was the first shogun of the Edo period (1867-1603). His grandson Imitsu completed the castle palace buildings 23 years later and further expanded the castle by adding a five-story castle. Nijo castle is a perfect place where passing by the numerous halls and rooms will make you get a feel of the local heritage and political changes that happened in Japanese history.
Lunch Break / Porta Dining
During your Kyoto tour, take a delightful lunch break at Porta Dining, located beneath Kyoto Station. This bustling underground dining area offers a variety of authentic Japanese dishes in a convenient and vibrant setting. Whether you're craving fresh sushi, hearty ramen, tempura, or traditional Kyoto cuisine, Porta Dining has something for everyone. Enjoy a quick yet flavorful meal in one of the many restaurants, perfect for recharging before continuing your exploration of Kyoto. It's the ideal stop for a delicious taste of Japan in the heart of the city!
Fushimi Inari Shrine
A 1300-year-old gorgeous shinto shrine and a beautiful piece of Japanese history. This shrine is one of the most iconic sights in Japan and the most visited shrine in Kyoto. The shrine has many great attractions including the 10, 000 vermilion torii gates and foxes’ statues that are great to see and walk through. The walk through the thousand gate (senbon torii) walk offers some spectacular views.
Kiyomizu-Dera Temple , Old streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka Paths
A stunning Buddhist temple and a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most celebrated temples of Japan. It was founded in 780 on the site of the Otowa waterfall, hence the name “Pure water” temple. The temple is very well known for its 13-meter-high wooden stage, gorgeous statues inside, highest 3 story pagoda and the most iconic views over the Kyoto skyline beside it. The pedestrian only street that leads up to the temple and the area around the temple has a lot of souvenir shops, restaurants, cafes and snack shops that offer Japanese green tea sweets and traditional food.
Gion area and Geisha spotting streets
Kyoto city's entertainment district, particularly for the refined performers known as Maiko and Geisha who have enthralled patrons for centuries. Gion is full of handsome, understated townhouses and teahouses, restaurants serving traditional Kyoto cuisine, and venerable temples and shrines.
Tour Finish
We can drop you off in Gion where you can have dinner and spend the rest of your night, or take you back to the hotel.
Ending Point
We can drop you off in Gion where you can have dinner and spend the rest of your night, or take you back to the hotel.
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
Guiding Fee & Tour Management
*Transportation cost: Tour itinerary is planned based on hiring a car/ van for 8 hours in Kyoto. Transportation fee (in Kyoto)-Cash to the driver on tour day: Up to 5 passengers: ¥100,000, if more than 5 please let me know in advance.
*We provide shore excursion services from Osaka or Kobe ports for an additional fee, payable directly to the driver of the hired vehicle. Please be aware that the itinerary may be adjusted to fit your schedule and preferences.
*Entrance fee
*Lunch and personal expenses
*Gratuities are always appreciated but never expected. If you feel that your experience was exceptional, tipping is a lovely way to show your appreciation for the service provided.
Tour Important Information
*The tour itinerary is planned based on hiring a car/ van for 8 hours in Kyoto. Transportation fee (in Kyoto)-Cash to the driver on tour day: Up to 5 passengers: ¥100,000, if more than 5 please let me know in advance.
*We provide shore excursion services from Osaka or Kobe ports for an additional fee, payable directly to the driver of the hired vehicle. Please be aware that the itinerary may be adjusted to fit your schedule and preferences.
*This tour involves a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
Important message from the supplier
See the calendar for availability
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 2017
About Tour Guide Ahmed A.
Hello! I’m Ahmed, a passionate tour guide based in Kyoto, Japan. Originally from Kuwait, I moved back to Palestine where I earned my Medical Degree (MD) in 2008. In 2015, I was fortunate to receive a Japanese government scholarship to pursue further studies at Kyoto University, one of Japan’s top institutions.
Living in Kyoto opened my eyes to the rich history and stunning scenery of this ancient city, which served as Japan’s capital for over a thousand years. It ignited my passion for culture, history, and food, leading me to embark on a rewarding career as a tour guide.
I have traveled extensively across Europe and Asia, and I love sharing my knowledge of Japanese culture with others. I can provide historical insights at every stop, recommend the best local cuisine, and create personalized itineraries, including day trips from Tokyo to Kyoto.
I’m fluent in English and Arabic, and I thrive on connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. Whether you’re interested in exploring temples, experiencing traditional cuisine, or simply enjoying the beauty of Kyoto, I’m here to make your visit unforgettable.
Your safety and comfort are my top priorities. I measure my temperature before our tours and am happy to wear a mask if it makes you feel more comfortable. While I'm not a driver, I will accompany you in your vehicle or arrange for a separate car and driver if needed.
Book with confidence and get ready to explore Kyoto with me! I can’t wait to show you why I believe this city is the most beautiful in Japan.
Ahmed, MD, PhD, MBA
Reviews
“Night time highlights ”
Ahmed was not able to guide us on our visit because of illness but arranged a substitute guide, Matheus. He was fabulous, adapting to our needs easily. A very enjoyable experience.
Ahmed A.
Great you enjoyed it. Thank you so much
“AHMED A., Tour guide”
Ahmed s a nice person with good knowledge of english. Unfortunately he does not speak and read japanise(the reason that we needed a guide.) He is not a lisenced guide from „gowithguide“ we had to pay for him all entryfees. He told that he has his own travel busines - therefore his tours are so expensive!!!compared with our friends. They paid for 4 days Y145000 and we Y280000!!!!! He sent us every day another guide. Sorry we cannot recommend Ahmed as a registered guide. Regards Edith Leemann
Ahmed A.
Thanks a lot for the wonderful time and pleasure to tour with you
Dzovig K.
Kyoto's Top City Highlights: 2-Day Tour Experience
“Kyoto tour”
My husband and I recently had the pleasure of going on a 2 days’ Kyoto private tour led by Ahmed and I can’t recommend him highly enough! From the moment we met, we felt like we knew each other well. He was very friendly and knowledgeable and with his flawless English, he shared his insights on Japan’s history, everyday life, as well as the sites we visited. The pace of the tour was perfect, allowing us to take our time and enjoy the moment without feeling rushed. Additionally, Ahmed was attentive and accommodating, ensuring we were comfortable at all times. We were extremely satisfied with Ahmed. If you are looking for an enjoyable day, this tour is a must, and Ahmed is the perfect guide to lead the way. Thank you for an unforgettable experience!
Ahmed A.
Thank you for your fantastic review! I’m so glad to hear that you had a wonderful time on the tour. It was a pleasure having you with us, and your kind words truly make my day.
$509/ per group
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