Private Tour
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
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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.
What‘s Included
Private transportation
Fully customizable tours based on your preferences
Booster seat
Complimentary support for Shinkansen and restaurant reservations
Mercedes - Benz V-Class (High-cost option for VIP)
Air-conditioned vehicle
Wi-Fi on Board
Experienced Local English and Japanese Speaking Guide
Private Vehicle with a Professional Licensed Driver
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
Options
1 ~ 6 PAX
Pickup included
7 ~ 9 PAX
Van
Pickup included
Reviews
37 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Wonderful private tour of Kyoto and Nara
christophercW9157PJ,Apr 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a great time with Yama, our driver and guide. Very knowledgeable, personable, and efficient with getting us to our planned destinations. Yama knew the roads well and planned our tour appropriately to experience the sites in best possible weather conditions. Thank you!! We had an excellent time.
5 ⭐️Best tour in Kyoto for English speakers
R6207HFjasonn,Mar 22, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We left this tour with amazing memories and even a new friend. Yama was an incredible host—knowledgeable, patient, informative, and entertaining from start to finish. He shared so much about Kyoto and Nara and made the entire experience feel personal and enjoyable. He even went above and beyond by extending the tour at no extra cost. If you’re looking for an English-speaking host who will make your trip special for you, your family, or your friends, Yama is the one to book.
Kyoto/Nara trip
yevae,Mar 22, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a very good day with Yama! We were a family of 3 with one of us being a 72 y.o. with mobility issues and Yama was very patient and accommodating. He accompanied us to sites we visited and answered all of our questions all the while being a very safe and efficient driver. Thank you Yama.
5 stars ✨
jolenea164,Mar 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Yama is great! He was very accommodating of our family and took us to all the great spots around the Kyoto area. He knew all the popular, yummy spots for food and snacks too. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Kyoto who needs an English/Japanese speaking guide. Thanks Yama! 🙌🏽
Trip to Kyoto
liberatar2026,Mar 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Yama was so kind and very accommodating. He’s so funny and very attentive to my family. Very patient.
Great Day in Kyoto with Yama!
MSTravelerToronto,Mar 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Yama was a great guide. We covered all the main sites of Kyoto all in one day. He was very personable and my son really enjoyed talking with him about soccer & interacting with him. He was a safe and friendly driver and I definitely recommend him.
We had a full day I. Kyoto where he picked us up at our hotel and Yama stayed with us the entire times.
Discover57503591993,Mar 13, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Yama was amazing! He is a very good tour guide who made sure we had an amazing experience. We had age ranges from 7-54 and he made sure our experiences were perfect and food options fit everyone’s needs.
.I praise the Tour guide for his knowledge and guiding us for our further travel .
Nina V,Mar 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00All praises for Yama our Tour guide. Very knowledgeable helping us with tips for our travel.
Mr Yama our tour Guide for Nara & Kyoto gave good information about the places we visited-
Relax15853768993,Mar 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Mr Yama our tour Guide for Nara very knowledgeable ...Gr8t trip,thank you
Trip itenary was very well planned by trip guide Yama Kyoto
Shila K,Mar 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Trip itenary was well planned by trip guide Yama.had a very good experience.
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Operated by Japan Luxury Tours