Explore Kyoto in Comfort – Private Car Tour with English Driver

Kyoto , Japan

Explore Kyoto in Comfort – Private Car Tour with English Driver

Name: Explore Kyoto in Comfort – Private Car Tour with English Driver
SKU: 5622159P3
Price: 467.00 USD
Availability: InStock

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

Discover the timeless beauty of Kyoto on our exclusive, private day trip. Tailored just for you, we create a personalized itinerary based on your interests, so you can explore Kyoto’s iconic sights at your own pace.

Visit renowned landmarks such as Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Kiyomizu-dera, Fushimi Inari Taisha, and the tranquil bamboo forest of Arashiyama, all in one day!

The itinerary is fully customizable—you can add or skip spots, spend more time where you wish, or include hidden gems and local experiences.

Enjoy a comfortable, stress-free journey with your own English-speaking driver-guide, and make your Kyoto experience truly unforgettable

Available options

Explore Kyoto in Comfort – Private Car Tour with English Driver

What's included

Pick-up and Drop-off to Hotel

English-Speaking Driver

Air-conditioned vehicle

Pick-up options available from Osaka and Nara charging an additional fee

Private transportation

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Arashiyama is one of Kyoto’s most scenic districts, famous for its enchanting bamboo grove, peaceful riverside views, and traditional atmosphere. Stroll through towering bamboo paths, enjoy the natural beauty of the Katsura River, and experience the calm charm that has made Arashiyama a must-visit destination for travelers.

Stop 2

Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is one of Kyoto’s most famous Zen temples. Covered in gold leaf, the temple reflects beautifully over a tranquil pond and is surrounded by a carefully designed Japanese garden. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a peaceful atmosphere and is a must-see highlight of Kyoto.

Stop 3

Nishiki Market dates back over 400 years to the early Edo period (around 1600s). It originally started as a small street market where fish sellers gathered to sell fresh seafood to the residents of Kyoto.

Development:

Over time, more vendors joined, expanding the market to include vegetables, pickles, and local specialties.

The market became known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen” because it supplied fresh ingredients to households and restaurants across the city.

Cultural Significance:

Nishiki Market reflects Kyoto’s culinary tradition and lifestyle, preserving the tastes and techniques passed down for centuries.

It’s not just a shopping destination; it’s a living piece of Kyoto’s history, showing how local food culture evolved alongside the city.

Stop 4

Gion is Kyoto’s most famous traditional entertainment district, located around Kawaramachi and Yasaka Shrine.

Culture & Atmosphere:
Gion is famous for its Geisha (or Geiko) culture. The area features traditional wooden machiya houses and streets decorated in classic Japanese style.
In the evening, the streets are atmospheric with glowing lanterns, and you can see traditional tea houses (ochaya) where Geishas perform.

Stop 5

Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto’s most famous temples, part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto (UNESCO World Heritage Site). Its name means “Pure Water Temple”, referring to the Otowa Waterfall within its complex.

Famous Features:

Main Hall (Hondo): Built on tall wooden stilts, it offers a panoramic view of Kyoto. Remarkably, no nails were used in its original construction.

Stop 6

Fushimi Inari Taisha is the head shrine of Inari, the Shinto god of rice, agriculture, prosperity, and business success.

Famous Feature:

The shrine is most famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that form long winding paths up the forested Mount Inari.

Each torii gate is donated by individuals or businesses, often with the donor’s name inscribed on it.

History:

Founded in 711 AD, making it over 1,300 years old, it is one of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines.

What's not included

Food not included

Admission tickets are not included. Travelers can purchase these directly at location.

Available languages

Guide guide

PA HI EN UR

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Guests will be picked up from their hotel or a designated meeting point within Kyoto city.

The English-speaking driver will arrive at the confirmed location and will be waiting with a sign displaying the lead traveler’s name.

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.