Kyoto Private Tour: One Day Highlights and Cultural Gems

Kyoto , Japan

Kyoto Private Tour: One Day Highlights and Cultural Gems

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About this experience

You can step into Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, where centuries of tradition live on in every street, shrine, and temple. With its serene atmosphere and timeless beauty, Kyoto offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Japanese culture.
Wander through temple grounds filled with mystical energy, stroll along the traditional streets of Gion, and soak in the elegance and charm of old Japan. This experience is perfect for those who want to feel the spiritual and cultural soul of the country.

・Walk through the historic district of Gion, where geisha culture and tradition come to life
・Delicious lunch and discover the essence of Japanese cuisine
・Experience the sacred beauty of Fushimi Inari Shrine, walking under of iconic red torii gates

Available options

Kyoto Private Tour: One Day Highlights and Cultural Gems

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup & Drop off （Only in Kyoto City）

Public transportation

English Speaking Guide

Photos of Tour Participants

Local taxes

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

After lunch we will explore the Gion neighborhood, extending west of Yasaka Shrine to the north and south. A cherry-blossom lined path where nice cafes and tea houses beautifully line the street, with quintessentially Kyoto views yours for the taking in. You may even meet a Maiko (roughly equivalent to young, apprenticing Geisha) if you are lucky.

Stop 2

Yasaka Shrine awaits your visit. Yasaka Shrine is famous for the Gion Festival, one of the three biggest festivals in Japan, which local people lovingly call "Gion San." The number of worshipers over New Year's time tops more than 1 million every year, making it one of the most popular shrines in the country. Not just New Year’s, but also throughout the year you will find many visitors from both Japan and abroad.

Stop 3

This is a cultural treasure of a spot that cannot be removed, as it is the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto. It was opened by Eisai, the master who is the founder of Rinzai sect and boasts the third largest Kyoto Goyama ceremony. The vast precincts are made up of many towers and beautiful gardens and are also famous for possessing many valuable cultural assets including the Wind Fuji Thunder Graphics screen.

Stop 4

The Nishiki market is popular as a shopping district for Kyoto locals, and has shops dealing in seasonal fish and fruits, as well as traditional craft items unique to Kyoto, so here you can enjoy both shopping and eating while strolling.

Stop 5

A popular tourist spot in Kyoto, Fushimi Inari Shrine is one of the most beautiful and peaceful areas you’ll find in Japan. Composed with thousands of shrines, this popular location attracts visitors and photographers for it’s illusional, maze-like effect the shrines create when walking through it’s path.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Taxi / private car or bus

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

1 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

82 reviews

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Important information

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Some changes can be made to the itinerary based on your wishes

Meeting point

If you come from outside Kyoto city, we'll meet at Kyoto station, central gate on the day.

Important notes

• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
• A small amount of walking is involved
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions
• Not recommended for participants with back problems
• Not recommended for pregnant women
• Some changes can be made to the itinerary based on your wishes

Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

About Kyoto

Kyoto, once the imperial capital of Japan, is a city rich in history, culture, and tradition. Known for its numerous classical Buddhist temples, as well as gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines, and traditional wooden houses, Kyoto offers a unique blend of ancient and modern Japan. The city is a must-visit for travelers seeking to experience the heart of Japanese heritage.

Top Attractions

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

A Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, Kinkaku-ji is one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks. The temple's top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf, reflecting beautifully on the surrounding pond.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours ¥400

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, Fushimi Inari Taisha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari, the god of rice. The trails leading up the mountain offer stunning views of Kyoto.

Religious 2-4 hours (depending on how far you hike) Free

Kiyomizu-dera

A historic wooden temple with a large veranda supported by massive wooden pillars, Kiyomizu-dera offers panoramic views of Kyoto. The temple is particularly famous for its spring and autumn foliage.

Religious 1-2 hours ¥400

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

A stunning grove of bamboo, Arashiyama is one of Kyoto's most famous natural attractions. The towering bamboo stalks create a surreal and peaceful atmosphere.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (Tenryu-ji Temple costs ¥500)

Gion

Kyoto's most famous geisha district, Gion is known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, teahouses, and the chance to spot geishas and maikos (apprentice geishas).

Cultural 1-2 hours (longer if dining or attending a cultural event) Free to explore (dining and cultural events can be expensive)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kaiseki Ryori

A traditional multi-course Japanese meal that emphasizes seasonality and presentation. Each dish is carefully prepared and artfully presented.

Dinner Often includes fish, meat, and vegetables, but vegetarian options are available.

Yudofu (Tofu Hot Pot)

A Kyoto specialty featuring tofu simmered in a light kombu (kelp) broth, often served with vegetables and condiments.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian-friendly, can be made vegan if broth is vegetable-based.

Matcha Desserts

Kyoto is famous for its high-quality matcha (green tea) powder, used in various desserts like ice cream, parfaits, and wagashi (traditional sweets).

Dessert Vegetarian and vegan options available.

Obanzai

Home-style Kyoto dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, often featuring vegetables, fish, and tofu.

Lunch/Dinner Can be adapted to various dietary preferences.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the mountains Cycling through the countryside Rafting on the Hozu River Onsen (hot spring) visits Tea ceremonies Scenic walks in gardens and parks Temple and shrine visits Traditional tea ceremonies

Best Time to Visit

March to May (Spring), October to November (Autumn)

Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and are the best times to visit for cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. These seasons also see the highest tourist volumes.

15°C to 25°C (Spring), 10°C to 20°C (Autumn) 59°F to 77°F (Spring), 50°F to 68°F (Autumn)

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited/Rare

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (UTC+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Kyoto is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to take basic precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Use reputable tour operators and taxis

Getting there

By air

Kansai International Airport • 115 km from Kyoto
Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 40 km from Kyoto

By train

Kyoto Station

By bus

Kyoto Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most extensive and affordable way to get around Kyoto. They cover most areas of the city and are especially useful for reaching temples and shrines.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, INDRIVER

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Gion Higashiyama Arashiyama Downtown Kyoto (Shijo-Kawaramachi)

Day trips

Nara

40 km from Kyoto • Half day to full day

Nara is a historic city known for its ancient temples, shrines, and the famous Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer.

Uji

20 km from Kyoto • Half day

Uji is a small city known for its historic temples, beautiful riverside scenery, and high-quality matcha (green tea).

Kurama and Kibune

25 km from Kyoto • Full day

Kurama and Kibune are two neighboring villages in the mountains north of Kyoto, known for their hot springs, hiking trails, and scenic beauty.

Festivals

Gion Matsuri • July (main events on July 17th and 24th) Jidai Matsuri • October 22nd Aoi Matsuri • May 15th

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions like Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kinkaku-ji early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Consider purchasing a Kyoto City Bus Pass or other transportation passes to save money on getting around the city.
Try local specialties like yudofu (tofu hot pot), matcha desserts, and obanzai (home-style Kyoto dishes).
Explore the city's many temples and shrines, but don't forget to take time to enjoy the natural beauty of Kyoto's gardens and parks.
Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for local customs and traditions.