Private Car Tour - Enjoy the authentic castle towns and famous Oumi beef just outside Kyoto
Joined 2023
First, while it is early enough, we will drive and hike a little bit on the ancient steps to one of the oldest temples in Kyoto and Shiga called Hyakusaiji. After that, we will explore a castle that has a tower that is one of the five originals remaining in Japan, Hikone Castle.
We will enjoy Oumi beef for lunch. Oumi beef is if not better, as good as Kobe beef known as one of the three best beefs in Japan.
We will enjoy the scenery in Oumihachiman from the mountain top and the old moat.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
JR Oumihachiman station
- Will come and pick you up at the station by my car. * Oumihachiman is about 30 minutes by JR train from the Kyoto station.
Visit Hyakusaiji temple
Will visit Hyakusaiji which was established by the famed prince, Syotoku back in the early 7th century. We will hike up for about 15 mins through the woods on the ancient steps and get to the main hall of the temple.
Visit Hikone Castle and the town
Will visit Hikone Castle which is one of the only five original castle towers in Japan date back to the early 17th century.
Lunch
We will go to a restaurant that serves Oumi beef which is one of the three best beefs in Japan.
Oumihachiman old street and the shopping area
We will go through the photogenic streets with old style houses and visit an area where some charming/unique shops are.
Hachiman moat
We will walk along the moat and see the beautiful traditional scenery of Japan.
Himure Hachimangu Shrine
We will visit Himure Hachimangu Shrine.
Hachimanyama castle ruins
We will ride on the cable car to go up the mountain to the castle ruins area. Will trek a bit and see the beautiful view of Lake Biwa and rice paddies.
JR Oumihachiman station
I will take you back to the JR station where our tour started and
end the tour.
Ending Point
JR Oumihachiman station
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
- English translation / guide fee
- Private car
- Pick up and drop off by car (at JR train station)
- Transportation cost from Kyoto to Oumihachiman (JR train)
- Lunch has to be paid by yourself based on what you would like to have (avg. 15 to 30 USD per person).
- Lunch for the guide also has to be borne by your side
- Entrance fee to the castle, temples and etc
- Parking fee (if necessary)
- Cable car fee (up & down, cash only, 6 USD
Tour Important Information
- This tour involves a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
- Please let me know in advance if you have any food allergies or other dietary restrictions.
- Need to allocate at least 45 - 60 mins for lunch time.
- The guide will not be liable for any injuries or loss incurred during the tour. It is recommended to have overseas travel insurance.
Also, please remember to carry enough cash in Japanese Yen since some small stores do not accept credit card. Thank you.
Important message from the supplier
For some tours I can not guide everyday due to store closings. Please check my availability on each tour page. Thank you!
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 Nori I.
I have lived in the US, UK, and India for approximately 20 years, and I’ve also traveled to about 30 countries. Living abroad for such a long time made me realize Japan’s value and sparked my interest in working as a translator/guide for foreigners. I’m truly passionate about introducing people to historical sites, authentic Japanese culture, and stunning natural spots that may not be widely known to people outside of Japan. There are countless places that I believe people would love.
Originally from Nagoya, I cover areas around the city and the Kansai region including Kyoto, Shiga and Mie. I’m here to ensure your trip to Japan becomes an unforgettable memory. Looking forward to meeting you!
Reviews
Marek G.
“Fantastic Kyoto Tour with Nori”
We had an amazing experience exploring Kyoto with our guide, Nori. His English was excellent, which made communication smooth and enjoyable. What truly stood out was how well-prepared and knowledgeable he was — Nori could answer every question we had, no matter how detailed. He shared fascinating stories and historical anecdotes about each place we visited, which brought the sites to life in a unique and memorable way. His passion for the city and its culture was truly inspiring. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a deeper, more meaningful Kyoto experience!
Nori I.
I am really glad to hear that you were able to enjoy my tour. You had some tough questions but I guess I was able to satisfy them. Those questions make me realize there is a lot more to learn. Thanks again for taking my tour. Take care!
Sydney G.
“Wonderful tours”
We are so glad we had Nori to guide us on our first few days in Japan. He was incredibly knowledgeable about history and culture, as well as a pleasure to spend time with. He was able to customize the tour to match our interests, even making updates on the fly as he got to know us better! We would highly recommend Nori to anyone visiting the area.
Nori I.
Thanks for the kind words. I really appreciate it. It was my pleasure to go around Kyoto and Shiga for the 1.5 days. I am really glad that you two enjoyed the tours. Hope to see you again in the future!
Gerald D.
“Exceptional guide, Most memorable experience in Arashiyama.”
With the kind, outstanding guidance of Nori, we visited the Arashiyama area of Kyoto. The itinerary consisted of Tenryuji, the bamboo grove, Okochi Sanso, Saihoji, Toriimoto, Adashino Nenbutsuji & Otagi Nenbutsuji. This was a carefully curated itinerary and most memorable. Thanks to Nori, who provided guidance with the planning. We visited most of theses, whiles largely beating the crowds for the most part, during the peak, cherry blossom season. He is kind, professional and an exceptional individual.
Nori I.
Thanks for your kind comments. I appreciate it. We walked a lot but by going to the back side of Arashiyama, we were able to visit many precious small temples with beautiful gardens and etc. it is always fun walking in the area with less people. I am really glad that you were able to enjoy it!
$416/ per group
