Private Full Day Tour in Kyoto with a Local Travel Companion
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8h
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About this experience
This comprehensive tour takes you to the city’s most iconic landmarks. Perfect for visitors looking to immerse themselves in Kyoto's rich history & culture—all in one unforgettable day.
Itinerary (Customizable):
09:00 Meeting the Guide
10:00 Kinkaku-ji Temple
Visit the stunning Golden Pavilion, a Zen temple adorned with gold leaf.
11:00 Nijo Castle
Explore Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its Edo-period architecture.
12:30 Lunch Break
Enjoy a relaxing lunch at one of Kyoto's local restaurants, savoring authentic Japanese cuisine.
14:30 Fushimi Inari Shrine
Walk through the iconic red torii gates of Fushimi Inari, one of Japan's most famous shrines.
16:00 Kiyomizu-Dera Temple & Streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka
Visit the breathtaking Kiyomizu-Dera Temple with its panoramic views of Kyoto.
17:00 Tour Finish
Available options
Companion
Pickup included
Kyoto Full Day Tour with a Local Travel Companion
Pickup included
What's included
Pick up in Kyoto City
Travel Companion fees
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Also known as the Temple of the Golden Pavilion, built in 1397 as a three-story Zen temple in northern Kyoto. The temple is famous for having its top two floors completely covered in gold leaf and framed by pine trees, with its reflection glistening in a pristine pond. The temple had an impressive structure built overlooking a large pond and is registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site.
2
Stop 2
A UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site and one of the most famous spots in Kyoto. The castle functioned as a second home for the Tokugawa shogun who stayed here when he visited Kyoto and was the first shogun of the Edo period (1867-1603). His grandson Imitsu completed the castle palace buildings 23 years later and further expanded the castle by adding a five-story castle. Nijo castle is a perfect place where passing by the numerous halls and rooms will make you get a feel of the local heritage and political changes that happened in Japanese history.
3
Stop 3
A 1300-year-old gorgeous shinto shrine and a beautiful piece of Japanese history. This shrine is one of the most iconic sights in Japan and the most visited shrine in Kyoto. The shrine has many great attractions including the 10, 000 vermilion torii gates and foxes’ statues that are great to see and walk through. The walk through the thousand gate (senbon torii) walk offers some spectacular views.
4
Stop 4
A stunning Buddhist temple and a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most celebrated temples of Japan. It was founded in 780 on the site of the Otowa waterfall, hence the name “Pure water” temple. The temple is very well known for its 13-meter-high wooden stage, gorgeous statues inside, highest 3 story pagoda and the most iconic views over the Kyoto skyline beside it. The pedestrian only street that leads up to the temple and the area around the temple has a lot of souvenir shops, restaurants, cafes and snack shops that offer Japanese green tea sweets and traditional food.
What's not included
Transportation fees : ¥ 1,500 for public transportation
Lunch
Gratuities are always appreciated but never expected (In case your experience was exceptional)
Nijo Castle
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Kinkakuji Temple
Available languages
Guide guide
AR
JA
FIL
EN
ZH-CN
BN
Important information
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
The total duration includes the driving time, lunch break and pick up time.
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.
$330
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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