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Japanese Kyoto Private Tours

Due to high demand, we recommend that you use our date filter to make sure you view tours/guides that are available on your preferred dates.

Kyoto

8 hours

Discover Kyoto with a Local – Learn Japanese Culture Through Real Stories & Sights

Discover Kyoto’s cultural heart in just one day with a local guide. Visit three iconic spots: the golden beauty of Kinkaku-ji, the stunning hillside temple Kiyomizu-dera, and the peaceful bamboo groves of Arashiyama. Along the way, you’ll learn real stories, traditions, and the deeper meaning behind each place. This tour blends famous sights with local insights, giving you more than just photos — it gives you a true connection to Kyoto.

Discover Kyoto with a Local – Learn Japanese Culture Through Real Stories & Sights

Kyoto's must-see attractions and World Heritage sites in one day.

Perfect for those with limited time, this well-organized tour allows you to experience Kyoto’s most iconic sights efficiently. The itinerary includes the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Ryoanji, Bamboo Grove in Arashiyama, Tenryu-ji Temple, Togetsukyo Bridge. While these popular spots can be crowded, we utilize taxis to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey through this culturally rich city.

Kyoto's must-see attractions and World Heritage sites in one day.

Early Bird Tour Western Kyoto including Bamboo Forest and Kinkakuji Kinkakuji

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!

Early Bird Tour Western Kyoto including Bamboo Forest and Kinkakuji Kinkakuji

The Spirit of Old Kyoto” Walking Tour"

You will experience one of the best cities in Japan. Kyoto has unique architecture and wonderful atmosphere. If you want to see the old traditional Japanese design with in modern Japan Kyoto is waiting for you.

The Spirit of Old Kyoto” Walking Tour"

Full-Day Kyoto Private Tour!! World Heritage and Local Secrets, Just for You!

Please feel free to share your interests- places you wish to visit, foods you'd like to try, or how long you'd like to stay at each location. I"ll create a fully customized 8-hour tour just for you, blending famous sights with local hidden gems!

Full-Day Kyoto Private Tour!! World Heritage and Local Secrets, Just for You!

Timeless Kyoto: A Day of Walking and Wonder

Step into Kyoto’s heart on this unforgettable walking tour. Begin at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, then stroll through historic lanes like Sannen-zaka and Ninen-zaka. Admire Yasaka Pagoda, relax at Chion-in Temple, and end at Fushimi Inari Shrine with its iconic red torii gates. Along the way, I’ll share hidden gems and local stories. Having lived in Kyoto for over five years and with my wife’s local roots, I’m your personal guide to the city’s best-kept secrets. Don’t miss this unique Kyoto experience!

Timeless Kyoto: A Day of Walking and Wonder

Hilights in Kyoto & Nara

We will visit three highlights in Kyoto, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Bamboo Grove & Tenryuji Temple in Arashiyama and Kinkakuji Temple and visit two highlights in Nara, Todaiji Temple and Nara Deer Park. You will fully enjoy these places and get in touch with feelings of Kyoto and Nara cultures.

Hilights in Kyoto & Nara

My Favorite Golden Route: Kyoto One-day Tour

This tour is designed for those who would like to visit major scenic sites in Kyoto and off-the-beaten spots as well in a single day. The route is the one that has been favored and admired by many of my guests for the past few years. The itinerary mainly consists of three areas; Kitayama, Arashiyama and Fushimi areas. You will surely have unforgettable memories through the tour with me.

My Favorite Golden Route: Kyoto One-day Tour

Premium tour of Kyoto (1) : Arashiyama, Nijo-jo Castle & Kinkakuji temple

Why not enjoy your holidays in Kyoto? You can certainly get in touch with many things Japanese that we are proud of. They are old temples and shrines, cultural assets and the beautiful natural surroundings. You can also enjoy dropping in at souvenir stores and buy exquisitely made products, such as folding fans, porcelain and traditional Japanese cakes. I would like to take you to the following places, which are the three representative tourist destinations in this city: (1) Arashiyama It is the place where all the traditional natural beauties of Japan are combined together. They are Togetsukyo bridge, bamboo grove and the old temples. If you go up to the observation spot, you can enjoy the magnificent view of the gorge below. You can also see rickshaws of the olden times drawn by young people with smiling passengers on board. There are souvenir shops selling variety of goods and products. (2) Nijo-jo Castle (World Cultural Heritage Site) This castle was built in the early 17th century by the Tokugawa Shogunate government for the purpose of protecting the Kyoto Imperial Palace and as the accommodations when Tokugawa Shogun was in Kyoto. It was subsequently enlarged by successive Shogun. It is the castle as well as the palace, where you can see the powerful structures and beautiful gardens. You can learn, in addition, how great the power of Tokugawa Shogun was. (3) Kinkakuji temple (the Golden Pavilion) (World Cultural Heritage Site) The history of this temple began when the third Shogun of the Muromachi period acquired a tract of land in this area from a powerful statesman in 1397 and built a villa of his own to entertain the Emperor and members of the nobility. The upper two levels of the temple are covered with pieces of gold foil and are shining brilliantly against the background of the rich greenery. The pond in the foreground reflects the golden structure. It looks like the materialization of Pure Land of Buddha in this world. In addition, on the top of the golden structure is the shining phoenix.

Premium tour of Kyoto (1) : Arashiyama, Nijo-jo Castle & Kinkakuji temple

Kyoto's most popular sightseeing spots tour and enjoy a various kinds of Kyoto's specialities

This tour covers 4 must-see sites and Nishiki Market. You visit the most renowned sites such as the Golden Pavilion, Ryo-an-ji temple where you may find an elegant beauty in its simple rock garden Nijo-castle ,the luxurious palace of the Tokugawa Shoguns. Sanjyu-sangendo temple, where the thousand life-size statues and the Principal statue make you feel like you are in a forest of Buddha! says " It's amazing ! Lastly visit Nishiki Market, where you can enjoy eating Kyoto’s cuisine.

Kyoto's most popular sightseeing spots tour and enjoy a various kinds of Kyoto's specialities

Fully customizable your own private tour in Kyoto

There are so many great places in Kyoto that you probably want to visit but perhaps not enough time. It is best to have a local person guiding you to come up with a plan that suits your preference. I can create a tour with you which includes not only popular places like the Golden Pavilion and Fushimi Inari but small temples with wabi sabi such as those in Sagano and one of the oldest Japanese sweets shops in Murasakino.

Fully customizable your own private tour in Kyoto

Lo mejor de Kioto

Sumérgete en la rica historia y la deslumbrante belleza de Kioto. En este recorrido les llevaré a través de los lugares más icónicos de esta antigua capital japonesa. Comenzaremos con el majestuoso templo Kinkakuji. Seguiremos con el histórico castillo Nijojo. Luego, nos adentraremos en la espiritualidad del templo Sanjusangendo. Por último el encantador distrito de Gion, cuna de las tradicionales geishas. Ven y descubre conmigo los tesoros de Kioto.

Lo mejor de Kioto

1-Day Highlights Tour Including All of Kyoto’s major sightseeing elements

The most representative elements of Kyoto sightseeing are shrines, temples, castles, and the quintessential Kyoto cityscape. This tour covers all of these major elements. Specifically, we will visit Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, Nijo Castle, Gion, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple, which are all very popular with tourists, mainly by public transportation and on foot. This tour allows busy travelers to efficiently enjoy Kyoto's major tourist attractions.

1-Day Highlights Tour Including All of Kyoto’s major sightseeing elements

Record the Sounds of Shisendō & Enkōji Temples • Sound Walk

Kyoto rewards those who listen. We wander slowly with professional microphones, recording the tranquil peace of gardens, birds, bamboo and Enkōji’s distinctive water feature. I’ll guide you through easy recording techniques, then edit your takes into a polished 'audio postcard' to keep and share. Curious about pace, group size or timing? Message me and we’ll shape it together.

Record the Sounds of Shisendō & Enkōji Temples • Sound Walk

A mellow-out in Kyoto (Arashiyama centered)

Arashiyama has been the beloved landscape for many ancient emperors, who had been buried in the Arashiyama park area. It is now managed by the Kyunaicho, Imperial Office. This tour highlights several attractions, inclusive of both must-to-be-visited site, bamboo grove, kimono forest and off-the-beaten-track scenic spots, such as view terrace of Hozukyo gorge, three emperors' crematorium, Kokura Pond (Lotus flower), Hair (Shrine), Suminokura Ryoi in Edo period.

A mellow-out in Kyoto (Arashiyama centered)

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

Perfect Trip in Kyoto

Do you want to visit the most popular places in Kyoto in 1 day? If your answer is “YES”, this is the tour for you ;) We will visits the famous temples and shrines and enjoy the nature around and learn the history and legends behind them. Let’s explore the old capital of Japan Kyoto and learn more about Japan!!

Perfect Trip in Kyoto

Eastern Kyoto, Short Hike in a Peaceful Temple and Forest

Experience the charm of tranquility in a mountain temple. Take a 3km walk around the foothills of the Higashiyama Mountain Range, visiting shrines and temples along the path. Starting at Seikanji Temple on Mt. Kiyomizu (242m height), follow the Uta-no-Nakayama Road to Kiyomizu-dera. Then, go through Sanneizaka and Nene-no-michi, and reach Maruyama Park and Yasaka Shrine. Along the way, we can feel old stories of tragic love while enjoying panoramic views of the Kyoto cityscape.

Eastern Kyoto, Short Hike in a Peaceful Temple and Forest

Customized Private Tour in Kyoto

This is customized private tour in Kyoto which guests can create easily by selecting any spots from a list of popular tourist destinations. The list consists of 16 tourist destinations (S01-16) that are very popular especially among foreign tourists. After the guest's selection the guide will arrange best itinerary with tour cost and feedback proper offer to the guest for formal booking.

Customized Private Tour in Kyoto

Golden Temple, Bamboo Forest, Nostalgic Tram Ride Tour

Keifuku Tram is beloved as "Randen" by Kyoto local. You can enjoy the nostalgic tram ride that takes you the Bamboo forest path in the precinct of Tenryuji temple. This tour takes you to Ryoanji temple that is famous for its rock garden and the Golden temple (Kinkakuji). This tour also includes strolling in the Geisya district of Kamishichiken.

Golden Temple, Bamboo Forest, Nostalgic Tram Ride Tour

Very Special 1day Kyoto Tour just for You

Kyoto had been the capital of Japan for 1000 years and has many wonderful places to visit. Please choose a few places among the following sightseeing spots, as you like. If you have any other preferable spots, please let me know. I'll guide you as many places as possible. Please note that some places are located in a little far away from the center of the city and it may need some time to go and come back.

Very Special 1day Kyoto Tour just for You

Kyoto Cultural & Scenic Tour

Discover Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage on this full-day guided tour (about 6h - 7h). Explore shrines, temples, traditional streets, and even local hidden spots if you’d like. Perfect for first-time visitors and anyone wanting to experience the true spirit of Kyoto. This model course can be customized to your preferences after booking. Pace: Moderate, with walking, bus and train (or taxi if you'd like) Best for: Culture lovers, history fans, and first-time visitors

Kyoto Cultural & Scenic Tour

The Tengu's Trail: Into the Heart of Kurama’s Mystical Mountain

Journey through the legendary mountains of Kurama and Kibune. Start at Kurama Temple, where Yoshitsune trained with the mythical Tengu, and where Aikido founder Ueshiba completed 21 days of spiritual practice. Walk through a lush, ancient forest rich with native trees and wildlife. Discover traces of history along the peaceful trail. Guided by the sound of a flowing stream, arrive in Kibune to visit its sacred Shinto shrines. A healthy, nature-filled hike connecting history, myth, and spirit.

The Tengu's Trail: Into the Heart of Kurama’s Mystical Mountain

Kyoto City Adventures & Highlights Tour

Hi my name is Naoki Thank you so much for checking my tour! This tour covers both must-visit & local hidden places of the city including the very local hidden places NOT in the guide books! You can maximize the chance to explore & enjoy as many places as possible within your time limit!

Kyoto City Adventures & Highlights Tour

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More Private Tours in Kyoto

Japanese Kyoto Private Tours

Discover Kyoto with a Local – Learn Japanese Culture Through Real Stories & Sights

Discover Kyoto with a Local – Learn Japanese Culture Through Real Stories & Sights

Kyoto's must-see attractions and World Heritage sites in one day.

Kyoto's must-see attractions and World Heritage sites in one day.

Early Bird Tour Western Kyoto including Bamboo Forest and Kinkakuji Kinkakuji

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!

Early Bird Tour Western Kyoto including Bamboo Forest and Kinkakuji Kinkakuji

The Spirit of Old Kyoto” Walking Tour"

You will experience one of the best cities in Japan. Kyoto has unique architecture and wonderful atmosphere. If you want to see the old traditional Japanese design with in modern Japan Kyoto is waiting for you.

The Spirit of Old Kyoto” Walking Tour"

Full-Day Kyoto Private Tour!! World Heritage and Local Secrets, Just for You!

Please feel free to share your interests- places you wish to visit, foods you'd like to try, or how long you'd like to stay at each location. I"ll create a fully customized 8-hour tour just for you, blending famous sights with local hidden gems!

Full-Day Kyoto Private Tour!! World Heritage and Local Secrets, Just for You!

Timeless Kyoto: A Day of Walking and Wonder

Timeless Kyoto: A Day of Walking and Wonder

Hilights in Kyoto & Nara

We will visit three highlights in Kyoto, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Bamboo Grove & Tenryuji Temple in Arashiyama and Kinkakuji Temple and visit two highlights in Nara, Todaiji Temple and Nara Deer Park. You will fully enjoy these places and get in touch with feelings of Kyoto and Nara cultures.

Hilights in Kyoto & Nara

My Favorite Golden Route: Kyoto One-day Tour

My Favorite Golden Route: Kyoto One-day Tour

Premium tour of Kyoto (1) : Arashiyama, Nijo-jo Castle & Kinkakuji temple

Premium tour of Kyoto (1) : Arashiyama, Nijo-jo Castle & Kinkakuji temple

Kyoto's most popular sightseeing spots tour and enjoy a various kinds of Kyoto's specialities

Kyoto's most popular sightseeing spots tour and enjoy a various kinds of Kyoto's specialities

Fully customizable your own private tour in Kyoto

Fully customizable your own private tour in Kyoto

Lo mejor de Kioto

Lo mejor de Kioto

1-Day Highlights Tour Including All of Kyoto’s major sightseeing elements

1-Day Highlights Tour Including All of Kyoto’s major sightseeing elements

Record the Sounds of Shisendō & Enkōji Temples • Sound Walk

Record the Sounds of Shisendō & Enkōji Temples • Sound Walk

A mellow-out in Kyoto (Arashiyama centered)

A mellow-out in Kyoto (Arashiyama centered)

Kyoto Early Bird Trekking Ending with Ramen

Kyoto Early Bird Trekking Ending with Ramen

Perfect Trip in Kyoto

Perfect Trip in Kyoto

Eastern Kyoto, Short Hike in a Peaceful Temple and Forest

Eastern Kyoto, Short Hike in a Peaceful Temple and Forest

Customized Private Tour in Kyoto

Customized Private Tour in Kyoto

Golden Temple, Bamboo Forest, Nostalgic Tram Ride Tour

Golden Temple, Bamboo Forest, Nostalgic Tram Ride Tour

Very Special 1day Kyoto Tour just for You

Very Special 1day Kyoto Tour just for You

Kyoto Cultural & Scenic Tour

Kyoto Cultural & Scenic Tour

The Tengu's Trail: Into the Heart of Kurama’s Mystical Mountain

The Tengu's Trail: Into the Heart of Kurama’s Mystical Mountain

Kyoto City Adventures & Highlights Tour

Hi my name is Naoki Thank you so much for checking my tour! *This tour covers both must-visit & local hidden places of the city including the very local hidden places NOT in the guide books! *You can maximize the chance to explore & enjoy as many places as possible within your time limit!

Kyoto City Adventures & Highlights Tour

More Private Tours in Kyoto

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More About Kyoto

Hi my name is Naoki Thank you so much for checking my tour! This tour covers both must-visit & local hidden places of the city including the very local hidden places NOT in the guide books! You can maximize the chance to explore & enjoy as many places as possible within your time limit!