Private Tour
Full Day Tour of Kyoto with Private Transportation
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
This exclusive experience, tailored with private transportation, allows you to explore Kyoto’s most iconic sites in comfort and style, ensuring a day of unforgettable memories. From historical Kyoto to the nature of Kyoto city all in one day. Save your time and see the most of Kyoto now!
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
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
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
The remaining hours are allotted for travel time
Some destinations in Kyoto have lots of staircase and not recommended for wheelchairs
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
One of the most iconic features of Kiyomizu-dera is its wooden stage, which juts out over the hillside, offering panoramic views of the cherry and maple trees below, as well as the city of Kyoto. The stage is supported by hundreds of wooden pillars, constructed without the use of nails—a testament to traditional Japanese craftsmanship. The temple complex also includes the Jishu Shrine, dedicated to the deity of love and matchmaking. Visitors can try to walk between two stones with their eyes closed—if successful, it is said they will find true love. Kiyomizu-dera is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is especially popular during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. The temple's architecture, natural surroundings, and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination in Japan.
Sannenzaka Ninenzaka
Explore Kyoto’s timeless beauty by strolling through Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, two historic lanes leading to the iconic Yasaka Pagoda. These stone-paved streets, lined with traditional wooden shops and teahouses, offer a glimpse into Japan's Edo period. Capture the stunning view of the five-story Yasaka Pagoda towering above, especially enchanting during cherry blossom season or at sunset. Whether shopping for Kyoto crafts, enjoying local delicacies, or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere, a visit to Ninenzaka, Sannenzaka, and Yasaka Pagoda is a journey into the heart of Kyoto's rich cultural heritage.
What‘s Included
Private transportation
Travel time from Osaka/Kyoto to all the destinations and back to hotel
English Tour Guide
Fuel surcharge
Entrance fee to Kinkakuji Temple (500yen)
Parking Fees
Entrance fee to Kiyomizudera Temple (500yen)
Gratuities / Tips is very welcomed
Lunch / Personal Expense
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Options
Full Day Tour of Kyoto with Private Transportation
Pickup included
Reviews
173 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
A wonderful day full of memories our family will treasure forever
sofi84,Mar 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our family had the most extraordinary day exploring Kyoto thanks to our wonderful guide, Somei. Traveling with two kids can be unpredictable, but he made every moment feel effortless, joyful, and deeply memorable. He crafted a perfect itinerary that took us through four iconic sites: • Fushimi Inari Shrine, where we walked through endless rows of vibrant red torii gates • Kiyomizu-dera, a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site with a lively shopping street and a stunning pagoda • The Golden Pavilion, shimmering in the sunlight like something out of a dream • The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, serene and otherworldly But what truly set the day apart was the way Somei cared for our family. He found ice cream just when the kids needed a boost, and he introduced us to the most delicious ramen we’ve had anywhere in Japan. As if that weren’t enough, he somehow managed to end the tour beneath four cherry blossom trees in full bloom—two weeks ahead of schedule. It felt like a scene arranged just for us. If I could rate him 11 out of 10, I absolutely would. Somei didn’t just guide us; he created a day our family will treasure forever.
Awesome Kyoto Private Tour
David L,Mar 16, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Our guide (Ben) made this tour truly memorable!! His deep knowledge of Japan’s history (a speciality of his) coupled with the photo books and iPad images he shared throughout the day brought the tour to life! Very very highly recommend Ben (Yujiro) for your private group.
We had a fantastic day...
Kent V,Mar 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We had a fantastic day with Somei seeing the beauty of Kyoto with an experienced guide. With our private vehicle we were able to park near the sites and accommodate our group that included older adults. Somei was very kind and customized the itinerary to our requests. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience!
Discovering Kyoto’s Hidden Gems with Nozo
SharedExp,Mar 12, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We took this tour on 3/12 with Nozo, and he was fantastic. When we asked if we could add a stop to see the monkeys, he happily adjusted the plan. He also brought us to a wonderful local restaurant with a classic, old-style Japanese atmosphere called Torihisa. The food was amazing. They only take cash though. Since we had a bit of extra time, he took us to the Uji district, where we visited a matcha shop called Tobi-en and walked around the local market/streets. The tea experience was excellent, and we ended up buying some beautifully crafted matcha. Nozo is flexible, knowledgeable, and genuinely committed to customizing the day around your interests. Just let him know what you’re hoping to see, and he’ll tailor the experience accordingly. He also gives you the freedom to spend as much or as little time at each of the planned stops as you prefer.
Great tour!
Jonah E,Mar 11, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Loved our tour with Shaniece. Great selection of sights and Shaniece was very friendly and engaging and knowledgeable. Terrific day. Thank you!
Kyoto Tour
R2369NGryanj,Mar 11, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a great time on the tour with Lewis, he was very informative at each stop and ran the tour smoothly.
Favorite day in Kyoto
Diane P,Mar 10, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00For us, this tour was a bit of a splurge. We have never hired a tour guide for any previous travels. Have to say, it was worth every penny. We only had 3 full days in Kyoto and this tour allowed us to see all the main historic sites in one day and we did not have to deal with figuring out transportation to and from each site. Ben was a great tour guide and answered every question my history teacher husband threw at him over the course of our 9-hour tour. Learned so much more about Japan, its history and culture in one day than we would have had we attempted to do this on our own. Also took us to a great sushi restaurant for lunch. Ben speaks fluent English, is very knowledgeable, and has a great sense of humor. Highly recommend. Thank you Ben for such a great experience.
Best part of the trip so far
U3257EWcalebb,Mar 10, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Lewis was so friendly and knowledgeable throughout the entire tour. He was patient and understanding with us, gave wonderful advice for the rest of our trip and took a genuine interest in making sure we were taken care of. I cannot recommend him highly enough!
Best sites, Amazing guide!
Stephanie P,Mar 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our family of four really enjoyed the private tour of Kyoto! Ben we very friendly and knowledgeable! He clearly loves sharing his Japanese culture! He was punctual, communicative and had a nice spacious and comfortable car to take is to all of the major attractions. He had stories to tell at each location and knew the best places to take a picture. We also added the monkey park to our itnarary which was a nice interactive addition! Ben was also great with our 14 and 16 year old boys who all talked a lot about Japanese baseball. We would highly recommend this!
Somei does his country proud
Dianne M,Mar 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Our tour of Kyoto was the highlight of our 2 weeks in Japan. Much in part because of our tour guide Somei. He was so knowledgeable respectful,friendly, yet relaxed. We covered a lot of sites yet didn’t feel rushed . We had an authentic Japanese lunch recommended by him and it was spot on. He spoke very good English. If ever we are back this way we would certainly look him up for a tour. He does his country proud !
Related Experiences
Operated by Japan with Christine