Kyoto and Nara Private Car Tour with a Local English Guide Driver
Overview
Available languages
8 hours
Mobile ticket
With an experienced local guide fluent in both English and Japanese (with previous experience guiding Hollywood actors, Lance Gross!)
All of our members were born and raised in Japan, so we have an in-depth understanding of the country. This allows us to share the hidden charms of Japan that only locals know. In addition, we offer free Japanese language support in case of emergencies.
In recent years, there has been a sharp increase in accidents and incidents involving unlicensed or inexperienced drivers who are not from Japan at other companies. Our strength lies in providing the highest level of safety and reliability through our Japanese drivers and Japanese guides.
In addition to hands-on activities such as ninja training and chopstick-making, our strong local connections grant access to exclusive experiences — including invitations-only Ochaya and private geisha or maiko performances.
(We are a Guide Service Company)
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
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
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What To Expect
Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine
Fushimi Inari Taisha is one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks, best known for the breathtaking Senbon Torii, or “thousands of torii gates,” that form bright red tunnels winding through the forested slopes of Mount Inari. Dedicated to Inari, the Shinto deity of rice, prosperity, and good fortune, the shrine has long been a place of deep cultural and spiritual significance. Visitors can stroll beneath the endless rows of gates, discover smaller shrines along the paths, and admire fox statues, believed to be Inari’s messengers. Whether you visit in the daytime, when the vermilion gates shine vividly in the sun, or at night, when the pathways take on a serene and mysterious atmosphere, Fushimi Inari offers an unforgettable experience.
Arashiyama
Arashiyama, in western Kyoto, is a scenic district known for its natural beauty and cultural landmarks. Highlights include the enchanting Bamboo Forest, the UNESCO World Heritage Tenryu-ji Temple, and the picturesque Togetsukyo Bridge, which is especially stunning during cherry blossom season and autumn foliage. Visitors can also explore the Iwatayama Monkey Park for views over Kyoto and encounters with wild monkeys, and stroll through the illuminated Kimono Forest near Arashiyama Station. With its blend of traditional shops, tea houses, and breathtaking scenery, Arashiyama is a must-visit destination in Kyoto.
Options
Normal Guide (1 - 9 PAX)
Van Pickup included
Licensed Guide (1 - 9 PAX)
Van Guide(has Pro Driver License) Pickup included
Normal Guide (1 - 6 PAX)
Pickup included
Licensed Guide (1 - 6 PAX)
Guide (has Pro Driver License) Pickup included
What‘s Included
Private transportation
Complimentary assistance with Shinkansen and restaurant reservations
Booster seat
Customizable tour based on your preferences
Mercedes - Benz V-Class (High-cost option for VIP)
Air-conditioned vehicle
Wi-Fi on Board
Experienced Local English and Japanese Speaking Guide
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Any Entrance fees are not included
You need to pay for parking during meals if there is a fee
Gas, parking, Highway fees in Japanese yen cash on the tour day
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
50 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Must See Sights While in Kyoto
Barbara K,May 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00For me, the only way to travel and see the sights is my booking a private tour! Always! Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and friendly and showed us the most important sites to see while visiting Koyto. Overall, great day!
Excellent
Brenda S,May 18, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Lots of uphill walking at monkey park but definitely worth it! Our guide Yama was great / very knowledgeable and friendly! Took us to hidden spots to avoid the crowds. Amazing experience!! Worth every penny!
Too expensive for the experience you get.
trinabando,May 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
3.00For the amount we paid, I expected to go to more places. I think there are better tour operators for the same price point.
Wonderful Nara!
margheritaimbriani,Apr 29, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Wonderful experience and tour. Our driver/guide Yama very very professional, helpful and careful!! Yama for ever!!!
A magical journey into the heart of traditional Japan!
lauraaB7891CD,Apr 29, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I want to thank Yama from the bottom of my heart for the wonderful day we spent together between Kyoto and Nara. In addition to the great professionalism, we greatly appreciated his availability and kindness, which made the tour not only interesting, but also extremely pleasant and relaxing.
Highly Recommended!
LuBerni,Apr 29, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I booked this tour to cover some of the most important places to visit in Japan, and it exceeded my expectations. Our guide, Yama, was incredibly precise and attentive to all our requests, making the experience smooth and enjoyable.
I thought I had booked a...
RACHEL D,Apr 27, 2026
- Review from Viator
3.00I thought I had booked a guide who would tell us all about each place. Lovely chap but he just drove and only gave info when we asked. Maybe my mistake but I assumed we would have a guide as a driver but felt he was just a driver .
An Unforgettable Kyoto Day Trip — Made Perfect with a Private Guide
ATTWKualaLumpur,Apr 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00My wife and I flew into Osaka from Kuala Lumpur with one key plan in mind: a day trip to Kyoto. The big decision was whether to join a group tour or engage a private guide with a car. We chose the latter—and it turned out to be one of the best travel decisions we’ve ever made. Yes, it comes at a higher cost—but the value is undeniable. Kyoto can be crowded, distances between sights are not trivial, and navigating trains or public transport can quickly become tiring, especially in warm weather. Having a private guide and car transformed the entire experience into something seamless, efficient, and truly enjoyable. We spent our time soaking in Kyoto—not figuring out logistics. What made the day exceptional was our guide, Yama—an enthusiastic young Japanese with impeccable English, deep local knowledge, and an instinct for navigating Kyoto’s hidden corners. Our first stop was the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. While it was bustling with visitors, Yama expertly guided us to a quieter access point that avoided the crowds and long walks. The towering bamboo groves were breathtaking—serene, majestic, and almost otherworldly. We then visited Kinkaku-ji, the iconic Golden Pavilion. Yama walked the grounds with us, sharing the rich history and cultural significance of the temple while also thoughtfully helping us capture some wonderful photos—moments we’ll truly treasure. Lunch was at Warajiya, a charming and traditional Japanese restaurant known for its unagi congee. Once again, the convenience of a private car stood out—Yama dropped us right at the entrance and picked us up after what was a unique and satisfying culinary experience. Our final stop was Gion, Kyoto’s famed geisha district. Here, local knowledge really matters. Yama chose a quieter, less crowded section of Gion, allowing us to appreciate its beauty and heritage without the usual throngs. His familiarity with the city’s small parking spots meant minimal walking—something we greatly appreciated given the warm weather. After a fulfilling 8-hour journey, we returned to Osaka relaxed and deeply satisfied. We are truly grateful to Yama for his careful driving, thoughtful planning, and unwavering politeness throughout the day. His ability to combine efficiency with a personal touch made the experience not just convenient, but genuinely special. I would highly recommend Yama to anyone seeking a private Kyoto experience—especially for those who value comfort, time efficiency, and meaningful local insight. This was more than just a day trip—it was a beautifully curated journey through Kyoto, and one we will always remember.
A fun day out
LeeMihaljek,Apr 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We engaged Yamato to take us around Kyoto and Nara after our friends recommended him and had so much fun. He has great English and was very accomodating and helpful. Our 10 and 9 year old children absolutely loved him and we highly recommend him. We also engaged Yamato to take us around Osaka which was another fun day. We will definitely be using him again next time we come to Japan!!
Perfect way to see Kyoto with limited time
Bhargavi P,Apr 12, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We travelled with Yamato Kline around Kyoto on a day trip from Osaka and nothing could be more worth it ! Yama is patient, especially since we had children and seniors with us... He cheerfully took us around the heritage centre of Kyoto, temples of Kiomizudera and found us a quiet spot at the bamboo grove. He even waited while we shopped endlessly for souvenirs. It was a pleasure travelling with such an even tempered, patient guide and an excellent driver. If you're short on time, this is the best way to see Kyoto undoubtedly ! Thank you for a great day Yama
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Operated by Japan Luxury Tours