Exclusive Kyoto and Nara Customised Private Day Tour
Overview
Available languages
10 hours
Mobile ticket
Step into the heart of Japan’s heritage with a journey through Kyoto and Nara, where centuries-old traditions meet breathtaking natural beauty. This experience is designed for those who want to witness Japan’s most iconic landmarks while discovering the hidden stories behind them.
The Golden & Red Icons of Kyoto: Stand before the shimmering Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and walk through the seemingly endless tunnels of thousands of vermilion torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha.
Arashiyama’s Dreamlike Nature: Wander the world-famous Bamboo Grove, where sunlight filters through towering green stalks to create a serene, otherworldly atmosphere.
Experience the unique charm of Nara Park, where approximately 1,300 wild deer—considered divine messengers—roam freely and bow to visitors for a treat.
Behold the Great Buddha: Visit the massive Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site housing a 15-meter bronze Buddha statue within the world’s largest wooden building.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What To Expect
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Kiyomizu-dera ("Pure Water Temple") is an iconic, UNESCO World Heritage Buddhist temple in the Higashiyama area of eastern Kyoto, renowned for its large wooden stage and panoramic city views. Jutting out 13 meters above the hillside, the famous main hall stage was built without the use of a single nail. It offers a breathtaking, panoramic view of Kyoto city and the surrounding natural beauty. Located beneath the main hall, visitors can drink from three streams of pure water, each believed to grant a different benefit: longevity, success, or a fortunate love life. Jishu Shrine: Situated within the temple grounds, this shrine is dedicated to the deity of matchmaking. Visitors can try the "love stone" challenge: successfully walking between two stones with their eyes closed is thought to bring luck in love. The walk up to the temple is an experience in itself, with the narrow, preserved streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka lined with traditional shops selling souvenirs.
Kinkakuji Temple
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) is an iconic Zen Buddhist temple in northern Kyoto, famous for its stunning main hall whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-see landmark. The Golden Pavilion: The main hall is the primary attraction, renowned for its gold-leaf-adorned exterior that reflects beautifully in the large Kyoko-chi, or "Mirror Pond". Unique Architecture: The three-story pavilion harmoniously blends different architectural styles: First floor: Shinden style (Heian palatial style). Second floor: Bukke style (samurai house style). Third floor: Chinese Zen style. A golden phoenix statue adorns the roof. Strolling Garden: Visitors follow a designated path through a beautifully landscaped Japanese strolling garden, offering various picturesque views of the pavilion from different angles. Teahouse and Fudo Hall: The path leads past the Sekkatei Teahouse (not open to the public) before exiting past souvenir shops.
Options
Pickup from Osaka Area
Duration: 10 hours Modern Standard Pickup included
Pickup from Kyoto Area
Duration: 10 hours Modern Standard Pickup included
What‘s Included
Private transportation
Hotspot on the Board
Child Seat
Air-conditioned vehicle
Alcoholic Beverages
Kinkaku-ji Temple
Todai-ji Temple
Lunch
Uji Shrine fee
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
15 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Kyoto
I9733HOlornad,May 31, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had an amazing Kyoto and Nara trip with Rana! He was knowleadgeable, friendly, and very accommodating throughout the entire journey. What stood out most was how caring and attentive he was. He always considered our needs, made sure everyone was comfortable, and went above and beyond to ensure we had a pleasant experience. His thoughtfulness and willingness to help made the trip stress-free and enjoyable. Rana kept the tour well organized while allowing enough time to enjoy the sights, take photos and explore at a comfortable pace. His professionalism, kindness, and dedication truly made our Kyoto and Nara visit memorable. We highly recommend Rana to anyone looking for an exceptional tour guide experience.
Great Tour
Samir J,May 25, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We had a great time exploring Kyoto and Nara with our driver Mozam! He showed us around Nara Park first to start of the day and then we went back to Kyoto to see the Golden Temple and the Bamboo Forest. We also had a great lunch near the Golden Temple. We highly recommend to book this if you want to check out the important points in both Kyoto and Nara.
Rana was our friendly...
Chulalak L,Apr 5, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Rana was our friendly tour guide. He picked us up at our house. He was good to communicate with us and he could answer all our questions about the destinations. The van was comfortable and roomy for family of five.
Disappointing
Andrew I,Apr 5, 2026
- Review from Viator
2.00Difficult experience that started off over an hour late with little to no notice, no planned itinerary sent in advance and driver had limited interest in explaining anything about Kyoto or locations. We were also deserted by our guide at one location and had to find him in the parking lot. Car was old and very uncomfortable - a very disappointing experience that we stopped after a couple of hours.
Amazing - Highly recommended!
YongYong L,Apr 2, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Rana (our driver guide) was very welcoming, friendly and on time. As we were travelling with grandparents and kids, we only chose certain attractions to visit and gave the rest a miss. We could customise and change our itinerary after each stop and it did not feel rushed. In fact, he accommodated our request to pick up our luggage from the nearby storage centre and helpfully transported them back with us. All in all, a very enjoyable and relaxing way to indulge in Kyoto’s culture. Thank you for the lovely memories!
Waqar was helpful and he...
chandra b,Mar 21, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Waqar was helpful and he showed us around . He was flexible and let us customize . We booked last minute and he was able to accommodate
Tour with Rana
Richard R,Mar 21, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Rana was a fantastic guide and was perfectly willing to travel to all the sights in Kyoto. His language skills were much appreciated and despite us feeling unwell he took care of us and brought us home a little early! I would strongly recommend this service and Rana in particular to anyone looking for a private tour of the city.
Disappointing
judy W,Mar 16, 2026
- Review from Viator
2.00Did not meet expectations. Had to walk 3 blocks away to meet the driver at a 7-11 He immediately complained about toll roads and parking. Limited knowledge of Japanese culture and history No proactive information given about the sites. Inefficient use of our time. We had to park with him then we walked to entrance instead of being dropped at the entrance. We contributed to parking costs. On personal calls during many transfers between sites. The positive. We had water and snacks in the vehicle for us. Not a certified guide. Told us he failed the test twice. Inappropriate questions regarding our political opinions
VIP Nara Kyoto
David S,Mar 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We loved our tour. We were able to see all that we wanted and more. Our guide was very accommodating by allowing us freedom to enjoy the sites and customizing a schedule based on what we would like to see.
Kyoto/Nara Experience
Ludmila P,Mar 12, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Rana was our guide and a driver, he was very thoughtful and attentive. He made sure we felt comfortable, and got to see the attractions. He got some snacks and water for us which was super cool! We really enjoyed our time in Kyoto and Nara! Rana, thank you for your help during this tour! We sure enjoyed it!
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Operated by Nihon Shine Tours