Private Day in Kyoto Customized Travel Experience in English
Active
10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore the enchanting beauty of Kyoto during cherry blossom season on a private customizable tour. Travel in a comfortable, spacious, air-conditioned vehicle, guided by an English-speaking driver. This tour allows you to enjoy scenic routes and visit iconic landmarks while steering clear of the busiest traffic areas. Perfect for couples, families, or friends looking for a personalized experience in this culturally rich city.
- Enjoy a private tour with a flexible itinerary tailored to your interests
- Travel in comfort with an air-conditioned vehicle and expert driver
- Visit iconic Kyoto landmarks while avoiding heavy traffic
- Perfect for couples, families, or friends seeking a memorable day in Kyoto
Available options
Private Day in Kyoto Customized Travel Experience in English
Pickup included
Spring Travel
Maximum 7 Pax: When the seven passengers are in the travel day<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Fuel surcharge
Parking Fees
Detailed itinerary
1
Start your morning enveloped by towering emerald bamboo stalks swaying gently overhead, their shadows dancing on the forest floor. Cherry blossoms frame the iconic pathway, creating a serene, otherworldly gateway to Kyoto’s natural beauty—perfect for those unforgettable photographs.
2
Escape into this tranquil hidden gem, where 1,250 whimsical stone statues carved by visitors gaze playfully from mossy gardens. Far from tourist throngs, it’s a peaceful cherry blossom retreat that reveals Kyoto’s quirky spiritual side.
3
Stop 3
Wander UNESCO-listed grounds where late-blooming omuro-zakura cherries burst in cotton-candy pink clusters. The five-story pagoda and golden hall glow against petal-strewn paths—a true springtime masterpiece.
4
Stop 4
Marvel at the Golden Pavilion’s mirror-like reflection shimmering in its tranquil pond, topped with delicate cherry blossoms. This Zen icon dazzles even more vibrantly during hanami season, drawing photographers worldwide.
5
Stop 5
Savor Kyoto’s “Kitchen” with 400m of bustling stalls offering matcha sweets, grilled skewers, and fresh pickles. Sample seasonal sakura-flavored treats while soaking up the lively atmosphere and vendor chatter.
6
Climb to the iconic wooden stage overlooking Kyoto, framed by hillside cherry blossoms. Stroll the preserved sloped streets below, lined with teahouses, wagashi shops, and traditional machiya houses bursting with spring color.
7
Stop 7
Conclude beneath thousands of vermilion torii gates winding mystically up Mount Inari. Fox statues guard sacred paths as sakura petals drift through the sunset glow—Kyoto’s most magical finale.
What's not included
Travelers pay directly for paid entrance fees
Meals
Available languages
Guide guide
JA
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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.
$397
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
