Private Tour
6 hours
Mobile ticket
The ideal pick for time-tight travelers that want to enjoy Kyoto. Avoid the potential confusion of Kyoto’s subway and bus systems; travel comfortably in a private vehicle instead!
On this tour, some of the destinations you can choose to visit include the glittering Golden Temple, the architectural masterpiece that is Kiyomizu temple in the Gion Geisha district, and Arashiyama with its towering bamboo forest. You will have the freedom to explore each area on your own as the driver waits to accompany you safely to your next destination. We hope to see you in Kyoto soon!
Tour details may change depending on your meeting point. This tour does not include a private guide. Please book one of our guided tours if you need a guide.
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
There are only a limited number of car seats and booster seats. Rear-facing car seats are not available. You must contact us directly if you need them.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Private vehicle
English speaking driver
Customizable Tour of your choice of 3-4 sites from 'What to expect' list'
Licensed Local English Speaking Guide
Entrance fees, Lunch, and Other personal expenses
You cannot combine multiple tour groups.
Select a pickup point
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Kiyomizu-dera, formally Otowa-san Kiyomizu-dera, is a Buddhist temple in eastern Kyoto. The temple is part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto UNESCO World Heritage site.
Gion
Gion is Kyoto’s geisha district, with hostesses in colorful kimonos often sighted on the wooden Tatsumi Bridge, or amid upscale Japanese restaurants and boutiques on Hanamikoji Street. Gion Corner hosts traditional Kyomai dances, while Kennin-ji Temple is known for its Zen garden and Yasaka Shrine has seasonal festivals in a lantern-lit courtyard. Nightlife ranges from quiet sake bars to buzzing, pub-like izakayas.
Mini Van (up to 6 Pax)
Pickup included
Van (up to 8 Pax)
Pickup included
Regular car (Up to 3 pax)
Pickup included
80 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Nancy M,
Oct 15, 2025
- Viator
My husband and I had a change in our cruise ship itinerary which lead us basically on our own and I was able to book a private driver in Kyoto Japan for 6 hours and customize our top choices. Our driver Takashi was fantastic! He met us at the train station and we were able to go directly to the Bamboo gardens, Golden Pavilion, stop at a great sushi spot near Gion and then walk the downtown Geisha district. He shared many additional shrines, and many historical sites in Kyoto along the way. Tashiki’s knowledge on Kyoto and being a native of the city allowed us to see more in our short time than if we were there for days. Viator has always been my go to for all my travels because the guides and drivers are the best! Highly recommend.
tracey s,
Sep 13, 2025
- Viator
This was the perfect way to visit special places in Kyoto especially in brutally hot conditions! Harry, our driver, was exceptionally friendly and gracious. He shared a lot of historical knowledge while accompanying us to shrines, temples and gardens. He was much more than just a driver. He even let us detour to the Pokémon store (gifts for the grandkids) and Starbucks as we were worn out from the heat during our outdoor exploring. He has a great sense of humor and enjoyed our time with him immensely.
Bethany A,
Sep 10, 2025
- Viator
Perfect way to fit in activities quickly outside the city center! We loved our driver and the convenience of booking this flexible day!
Sara M,
Jul 19, 2025
- Viator
We were lucky enough to get Harry for this tour! We loved all the time we got to spend with him. He was very informative on the history of every place we visited. He knew all the secret ways to get close to the entrances of where we were going, avoiding long walks and long lines on a very hot and humid day in Kyoto. We all really enjoyed this tour, and wished we could have spent more time with Harry. Book this trip, you will not be disappointed!
Khristofer A,
Jul 15, 2025
- Viator
Hiro is arguably the best driver/tour guide ever. He went the extra mile to give local insights of the area. Highly recommended.
Operated by Japan Guide Agency