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
112 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Best tour we did in Japan
Lisa C,,Dec 17, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Amazing and unforgettable would be how I describe our awesome tour of Kyoto with Ben. He was passionate, energetic and very knowledgeable of japanese culture and history. My 2 teenagers thoroughly enjoyed his touring style & sense of humour and engaging conversations.The pace & locations of the itinerary which we modified was perfect while travelling in a super comfortable&luxurious car. Ben & Christine, thank you for your speedy, friendly and genuine heartfelt services, you've made a difference to our holiday. All the best and give us a call if you're coming to Sydney! Cheers Lisa & family
Highlights of Kyoto
janetT6335YU,,Dec 16, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had the most wonderful day exploring the highlights of Kyoto with Christine. She was incredibly knowledgeable, super friendly, and so easy to spend the day with. We were a three-generation family group of 10, and Christine was fantastic at keeping everyone engaged — from the kids to grandma. She shared so much interesting information in a really approachable, enjoyable way, and we learnt a lot without it ever feeling overwhelming. She was happy to answer all our questions. It was a relaxed, fun, and very memorable day, and we all genuinely enjoyed every part of it. Christine made Kyoto come alive for us and we couldn’t recommend her highly enough.
Wonderful time in Kyoto
BeowHong L,,Dec 12, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00We traveled with young children and teenagers so we requested our guide Caroline to modify the Kyoto itinerary to include both fun and educational sightseeings for the children. Caroline was very accommodating and we managed to cover all the places that we wanted to visit and had a wonderful time in Kyoto.
Efficient and informative tour of Kyoto
susansalisbury1,,Dec 1, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00If you want to see the important sights of Kyoto efficiently then this is an excellent tour. Ben is a great driver and informative fun tour guide. He took us to many important sights, made a great lunch recommendation, and made sure all our goals were met. Plus he takes professional quality photos and sent us lots of follow up information. We highly recommend Ben.
Private Tour of Kyoto, Japan
Martin D,,Nov 28, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Our tour guide (Ben) was very knowledgeable and informative at all our tourist landmarks. His English was very good as he explained each of the tourist sites. I would recommend this tour to anyone wanting to see Kyoto, Japan for the first time.
Kyoto Temple and Shrine Tour
Paula R,,Nov 27, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00The beautiful fall foliage enhanced the beauty of the shrines and temples. So many UNESCO World Heritage sites. Ben was a knowledgeable, patient and pleasant tour guide with a good mastery of the English language. Wood strongly recommend this tour.
An Unforgettable Day in Kyoto with an Exceptional Guide
GrandTour17729949422,,Nov 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had the pleasure of touring Kyoto with Muneaki Tadano (Somei), and it was truly the highlight of our entire trip. He accommodated our mobility needs perfectly, ensuring the day was comfortable, smooth, and incredibly enjoyable. Muneaki is not only a knowledgeable and engaging guide—sharing the history and significance of each place we visited—but also a talented photographer. He captured stunning photos and videos that we will cherish for years to come. We also appreciated his excellent lunch recommendation, which was absolutely delicious. You will not regret booking this tour. Muneaki’s hard work, dedication, and warm personality made our experience unforgettable. Highly recommended!
Seamless, beautiful day in Kyoto with an exceptional guide
davidlG7129XG,,Nov 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We spent a full day in Kyoto with Muneaki Takano (Somei), and it ended up being one of the best days of our entire trip. He handled everything. the driving, the planning, the timing, and the pacing. He grew up here and used to work as a rickshaw driver, so he knows the back routes and the people, and it shows. We never felt rushed, and he always seemed to know where to go to avoid the worst crowds. Our first stop was Fushimi Inari. Even in the rain, he found quieter stretches of the torii gates where we could walk without being packed in. He helped us get photos that didn’t feel forced or crowded. From there, he took us to Kinkaku-ji. He timed the visit well. we arrived before the main wave of tours, and the Golden Pavilion looked striking with the mist over the gardens. He pointed out details about the grounds that were easy to miss on your own. Next was the Arashiyama bamboo grove. It was busy, but he guided us through the flow so we could actually enjoy it. He knew which parts were worth pausing for and which sections to move through quickly. We then stopped at a large temple gate. He gave a short, clear explanation of its history and significance that added context without dragging the visit out. The highlight came next - a small, hidden temple far from the usual tourist areas. The grounds were quiet, and the autumn colors were incredible. We sat inside a tatami room overlooking the garden, and it felt like a different world. That stop alone made hiring a private guide worth it. We ended the afternoon by the river in Arashiyama, with the mountains covered in color and fog. He shared stories about the area, and it gave the whole scene more meaning. Lunch was excellent. He brought us to a soba restaurant he loves, and it ended up being one of our favorite meals of the trip. Somei made the whole day smooth, warm, and genuinely enjoyable. He’s an excellent driver, a thoughtful guide, and someone who clearly cares about showing visitors the real Kyoto. We would wholeheartedly recommend him.
Spectacular day with Ben
222mirthaa,,Nov 24, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00My two daughter and I truly enjoyed this full day tour with Ben. He is very personal, accommodating, knowledgeable and fun to spend a day with. His van is super comfortable. He knows the city well and took us to a local lunch spot which we loved. We recommend Ben and this tour to everyone looking to see the main sites in comfort.
Amazing Private Family Tour with Kids!
Lisa N,,Nov 24, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Booked this tour for our family of 8 adults + 2 kids (ages 9mo and 2yrs) and it was the BEST decision we could’ve made. Our guide, Caroline, spoke perfect English and reached out prior to the tour to pick us up from our Airbnb and to choose our time of departure. She checked for allergies in the group which was so reassuring as my brother-in-law is allergic to shellfish. Caroline and the driver arrived on time and patiently waited for us to get ourselves together as is often a struggle with a big group. The car was so comfortable and the seats reclined. (Note, you need to bring your own car seat or the babies will need to sit in their own seat or on someone’s lap.) We got to enjoy the best sites in Kyoto at our own pace which (was also really helpful as my in-laws were with us) and Caroline was so friendly and kind to everyone in the group. After lunch our driver even made a detour to drop off the kids for their nap at our Airbnb. The flexibility of this tour made all the difference for our family I would recommend it to any group or family visiting Kyoto and would definitely recommend Caroline who made our day so special!
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Operated by Japan with Christine