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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

One day tour in Kyoto (Arashiyama area)

Tour will start from the Hotel in Kyoto. Frst visit is Kinkakuji temple (Golden Pavillion ),then, to Ryoanji tmple where is famous for rock garden. Tour will stop at Arasiyama area to take lunch and visit Togetsu bridge, Bamboo grove, Tentyuji temple and others. The last visit is NIjyo castle. As these places are normally crowded. using chartered taxi is highly recommended in order to effectively use your valuable time in Kyoto.

One day tour in Kyoto (Arashiyama area)

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 Bamboo Grove in Arashiyama, Tenryu-ji Temple, Togetsukyo Bridge, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and ends in the historic Gion district. While these popular spots can be crowded, we utilize taxis and public transport to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey through this culturally rich city.

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

半天周游京都宇治地区（平等院凤凰堂、黄檗山万福寺）

从您们的宾馆，坐京阪电车。 1首先访问平等院凤凰堂（在宇治车站下车）走着斜看宇治川过约7，8分钟，到平等院凤凰堂。（世界文化遗产） 2然后再坐京阪电车到黄檗山万福寺（在黄檗车站下车）走着去约5分钟到黄檗山万福寺，是日本最早的禅宗寺院（中国由来的）

半天周游京都宇治地区（平等院凤凰堂、黄檗山万福寺）

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

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

Kyoto beginner’s tour

Kyoto popular spots & must visit spots -Fushimi Inari 1000s Ted Torii gate shrine -Kiyomizudera temple (world heritage) -Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka -Gion geisha district -Kinkakuji Golden temple (world heritage)

Kyoto beginner’s tour

Bamboo grove and Arashiyama area, three World Heritages.

Arashiyama is the hottest tourist destination. It is incredibly beautiful in spring and fall because of its cherry blossoms and autumn leaves. In the fall, the leaves turn brown or red! In the outstanding Tenryuji, you will see a beautiful garden with beautiful mountains in the background. There are many other beautiful places with touching stories in this area. On the way back to downtown, we can visit two world heritage sites, Kinkakuji and Ryoanji. What a wonderful route!

Bamboo grove and Arashiyama area, three World Heritages.

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

Charming must -see in north west area of Kyoto city

This tour covers 4 must-see sightseeing spot . Firstly, we visit the golden pavilion. We go to Arashiyama. We walk through Tenryuji garden and bamboo forest. In the afternoon, we'll visit Nijo castle. (We enjoy watching a live demonstration of Japanese sweet making with green tea(Mattcha).Finally you can learn about Kyoto’s traditional and wonderful kimono

Charming must -see in north west area of Kyoto city

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

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

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

Thousand Torii Gates & Sake: Fushimi Half-Day Tour

This half-day tour begins at Fushimi Inari Shrine, a sacred site with more than 1,300 years of history, famous for thousands of vermilion torii gates. Next, we will take a train to another district and visit the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum. Here you will learn how Japan’s iconic drink has been crafted for centuries and enjoy a tasting of several sake varieties. We will wrap up the tour with a leisurely stroll through the lively Otesuji Shopping Arcade.

Thousand Torii Gates & Sake: Fushimi Half-Day Tour

Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Tenryu-ji Temple Walking Tour with Local Food

Escape the usual tourist spots and step into Kyoto’s hidden corners on this peaceful hiking adventure along beautiful, untouched rivers. Enjoy gentle trails through lush forests and scenic riverbanks as you immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area. This tour offers a refreshing blend of hiking and serene landscapes—perfect for those looking to unwind, breathe fresh air, and explore a side of Kyoto few get to see.

Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Tenryu-ji Temple Walking Tour with Local Food

Off the Tourist Path: Izakaya Dining & Dart Bar Experience

Join me for a fun local night out! We’ll start with delicious yakitori at a cozy izakaya, where you can enjoy grilled skewers, drinks, and the lively atmosphere. After dinner, we’ll head to a darts bar to relax, laugh, and play with locals. This tour is all about good food, friendly people, and feeling like you’re part of the neighborhood — not just a tourist

Off the Tourist Path: Izakaya Dining & Dart Bar Experience

Hear the Hidden Sounds of Demachiyanagi

Join me on a unique walking tour to hear Kyoto, not just see it. With microphones—that I'll provide—we will explore temples, riversides, and small local streets while paying attention to and recording the soundscape of the city. From the ringing of bells to the chatter of markets, Kyoto comes alive when you listen closely.

Hear the Hidden Sounds of Demachiyanagi

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

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

Kyoto Cultural & Scenic Tour

Discover Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage on this full-day guided tour (6-7h). 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

Let's enjoy your One-day Kyoto Tour!

One-day Kyoto Tour would be personalized according to your interests and preferences. If you don't like the busy sightseeing spots, I'm happy to suggest the suitable itinerary for you on your requests. Let's enjoy your own tour to experience a wider variety of cultures in Kyoto! === I would appreciate it if you could visit my page on Facebook by my name "Tohru Shimagaki". ===

Let's enjoy your One-day Kyoto Tour!

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

Let's enjoy early morning Kyoto and maiko experience

Kyoto is one of the most popular places to visit, but so crowded. If you want to enjoy quiet Kyoto, I recommend you visit there early morning. In this tour, you can enjoy bamboo grove, morning coffee at a Japanese style coffee shop and beautiful river and mountains scenery from a wooden bridge. After that, why don't you try 'washoku', or Japanese cuisine and maiko, or cute apprentice geisha's dancing? My special early morning tour will give you wonderful and unforgettable memories in Japan!!

Let's enjoy early morning Kyoto and maiko experience

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More Private Tours in Kyoto

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

One day tour in Kyoto (Arashiyama area)

One day tour in Kyoto (Arashiyama area)

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

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

半天周游京都宇治地区（平等院凤凰堂、黄檗山万福寺）

半天周游京都宇治地区（平等院凤凰堂、黄檗山万福寺）

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

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

Kyoto beginner’s tour

Kyoto popular spots & must visit spots -Fushimi Inari 1000s Ted Torii gate shrine -Kiyomizudera temple (world heritage) -Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka -Gion geisha district -Kinkakuji Golden temple (world heritage)

Kyoto beginner’s tour

Bamboo grove and Arashiyama area, three World Heritages.

Bamboo grove and Arashiyama area, three World Heritages.

Timeless Kyoto: A Day of Walking and Wonder

Timeless Kyoto: A Day of Walking and Wonder

Charming must -see in north west area of Kyoto city

Charming must -see in north west area of Kyoto city

Fully customizable your own private tour in Kyoto

Fully customizable your own private tour in Kyoto

Kyoto Early Bird Trekking Ending with Ramen

Kyoto Early Bird Trekking Ending with Ramen

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

Thousand Torii Gates & Sake: Fushimi Half-Day Tour

Thousand Torii Gates & Sake: Fushimi Half-Day Tour

Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Tenryu-ji Temple Walking Tour with Local Food

Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Tenryu-ji Temple Walking Tour with Local Food

Off the Tourist Path: Izakaya Dining & Dart Bar Experience

Off the Tourist Path: Izakaya Dining & Dart Bar Experience

Hear the Hidden Sounds of Demachiyanagi

Hear the Hidden Sounds of Demachiyanagi

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

Perfect Trip in Kyoto

Perfect Trip in Kyoto

Kyoto Cultural & Scenic Tour

Kyoto Cultural & Scenic Tour

Let's enjoy your One-day Kyoto Tour!

Let's enjoy your One-day Kyoto Tour!

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

Let's enjoy early morning Kyoto and maiko experience

Let's enjoy early morning Kyoto and maiko experience

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!