Tailored Private Kyoto & Arashiyama Experience: One-Day Tour
This personalized experience allows you to explore the iconic sights of Kyoto, including its historic temples and vibrant cultural districts. In Arashiyama, stroll through the enchanting Bamboo Grove, visit the tranquil Tenryu-ji Temple, and enjoy the scenic views of the Togetsu Bridge. With a tailored itinerary, this private tour ensures you see the best of both areas at your own pace, making it a perfect choice for a memorable and immersive day.
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
- *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.
Arashiyama Sightseeing : Bamboo Grove, Nonomiya Shrine & Tenryu-ji temple Garden, Hozu-Gawa River , Togetsu Bridge ,
Arashiyama Sightseeing: Discover the enchanting beauty of Arashiyama as you explore its iconic Bamboo Forest, the serene Hozu-gawa River, and the picturesque Togetsu Bridge. Visit the stunning Tenryu-ji Temple Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance of the historic Nonomiya Shrine. This captivating journey through Arashiyama offers a perfect blend of nature and culture.
Kinkakoji Temple
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kinkaku-ji Temple, Kyoto's iconic Golden Pavilion, shimmering brilliantly against its serene pond backdrop. Stroll through the exquisite gardens, reflecting the harmonious blend of nature and artistry that defines this UNESCO World Heritage site. Perfect for culture enthusiasts and photographers, this tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into Japan's architectural splendor and tranquil elegance.
Nishiki Market / Lunch Break
Known as "Kyoto's Kitchen". Dive into the culinary heart of Kyoto at Nishiki Market, a bustling five-block marketplace brimming with over a hundred vibrant stalls and shops. Savor the flavors of fresh seafood, local delicacies, and unique snacks while exploring traditional Japanese ingredients and gourmet treats. Perfect for food lovers and cultural explorers, this tour offers an unforgettable taste of Kyoto's rich culinary heritage.
Gion District
Stroll through the Gion district, Kyoto’s renowned geisha area. Immerse yourself in the charm of traditional Japanese culture as you wander along narrow streets lined with wooden machiya houses, teahouses, and shops. Gion is one of the few places where you can spot geiko (geisha) and maiko (apprentice geisha) dressed in exquisite kimonos, bringing the past to life. The district offers a perfect blend of cultural elegance and history, making it an essential stop on your Kyoto journey.
Fushimi Inari Shrine
Embark on a spiritual journey at Fushimi Inari Shrine, renowned for its thousands of iconic red torii gates that create a mesmerizing path through lush forest trails. Discover the beauty and mystique of this ancient Shinto shrine, dedicated to the deity of rice and prosperity, with stunning views and serene surroundings. Perfect for hikers and culture enthusiasts, this tour offers an unforgettable blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage in Kyoto.
Tour Finish
Ending Point
Fushimi Inari Shrine
Want to personalize this tour?
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This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Guiding Fees & Tour Management
*Transportation fee
*Entrance fees
*Lunch & personal Expenses
*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.
*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
*This tour is based on using public transportation, however we recommend car hiring (cost is JPY 100,000 per day in cash to the driver for up to 5 pax) since it will make it more convinient and efficient. In case you are interested please ask me to manage it.
*These tour involves a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
*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.
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
About Tour Guide Ahmed A.
Hello! I’m Ahmed, a passionate tour guide based in Kyoto, Japan. Originally born in 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
Varija R.
“Gion 2 hour evening tpur”
Ahmed is an excellent guide. He explained everything in detail. He accomodated eveeyone and took photos patiently.
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Ahmed A.
Thanks alot for the nice review and always my pleasure
Ahu A.
“Excellent Kyoto Tour with Ahmed!”
We had a truly wonderful day exploring Kyoto with Ahmed. Everything was perfectly organized — from the comfortable transportation to the thoughtful timing at each stop. Ahmed is not only knowledgeable about Kyoto’s history and culture, but also incredibly kind, patient, and attentive to our group’s needs. He made sure we saw all the must-see highlights while keeping the day relaxed and enjoyable. Lunch was delicious, and we appreciated how flexible he was with our schedule. We always felt safe, comfortable, and well cared for. Thank you, Ahmed, for such a memorable experience — we’ll warmly recommend you to anyone visiting Kyoto!
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Ahmed A.
I am so happy and thrilled to know you enjoyed it and to read your review. Wishing you and your lovely group all the best. This is also one of the best tours I even did because your group was so friendly and nice, and their company was just a total joy. Thanks a lot again and wishing to meet you again in Japan
Lynn P.
“Poor communication”
We cannot really say much about Ahmed as a guide because he sent us someone else. As for Ahmed as a tour operator, we are very disappointed with his services. Because the information given by him by private message was not very clear, we almost ended up booking a tour that was 3 times as expensive as a similar tour offered by other operators. In the end, we figured out that he asked more than 1,000 euros for a day tour by private car in Kyoto. After that he sent us a booking link to another tour that was still different to what we requested. When we realized that he sent us a link for the wrong tour, it was already too late to cancel. Our guide Kazz was great. He was helpful, friendly and very flexible with spontaneous requests. On top of that he took a lot of pictures of us that he sent us via Google Drive the same day. We highly recommend him as a guide.
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Ahmed A.
Thank you. For future tours, please check well what the tour description is, what is included and what is not, otherwise you end up in troubles like this. Its good that the guide was great and you enjoyed with him.
$512/ per group
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Kyoto's must-see attractions and World Heritage sites in one day.
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One day tour in Kyoto (Arashiyama area)
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Bamboo grove and Arashiyama area, three World Heritages.
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Shall we explore some of the most popular sightseeing destinations in Kyoto while most tourists are preparing for their tour? I would also like to take you some hidden gemes in Kyoto. Beat the crowds!
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