Osaka Kyoto Private Day Tour Guide And Vehicle

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6 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: Japanese and 1 more

This private day tour is designed for travelers arriving at Osaka Port (Tempozan) by cruise ship who want to make the most of their day exploring the timeless former capital of Kyoto. Your friendly government-licensed English-speaking guide and private vehicle pick you up right at the port and drive you comfortably to Kyoto, about an hour away.

Over a relaxed day you discover Kyoto's most iconic sights at your own pace. Marvel at the shimmering Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), walk beneath thousands of vermilion torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine, stroll the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and take in the views from the wooden stage of Kiyomizu-dera. Wander the historic geisha district of Gion, sample local flavors at Nishiki Market, and step back into the age of the samurai at Nijo Castle.

As this is a fully private, customizable tour, you choose which sights to visit from the itinerary list, with no trains or crowds to navigate.

What's Included

Private vehicle
Customizable Tour of your choice of 2-3 sites from 'Itinerary' list
Licensed Local English Speaking Guide
You cannot combine multiple tour groups.

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

This private tour is a guided tour with a private vehicle designed for travelers coming to Osaka Port (Tempozan) by cruise ships. Your guide and vehicle will pick you up and drop you off at Osaka Port (Tempozan) or hotels near the port.

OR
Meeting point
Osaka Station

Your guide will be waiting at the ticket gate holding a name board.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 6 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Kinkaku-ji

    Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, is one of Kyoto's most iconic Zen temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its top two floors are completely covered in dazzling gold leaf, shimmering above a tranquil reflecting pond and a beautifully landscaped strolling garden. Your guide will share its fascinating history as you take in the view.

    30 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine

    Fushimi Inari Taisha is the head shrine of the Inari deity and one of Kyoto's most spectacular sights. Thousands of vivid vermilion torii gates wind up the wooded slopes of Mount Inari, forming mesmerizing tunnels of orange. Your guide will explain the shrine's customs and the meaning behind the gates as you stroll through.

    40 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

    The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is one of Kyoto's most magical natural sights. Towering stalks of green bamboo soar overhead, swaying gently and filtering the sunlight into a soft, ethereal glow along the walking path. Your guide leads you through this serene grove on the scenic west side of the city.

    30 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Kiyomizu-dera is a magnificent UNESCO World Heritage temple founded in 778, famous for its vast wooden stage that juts out over the hillside, offering sweeping views of Kyoto and a sea of seasonal foliage. Your guide explains its history as you explore the grounds and the iconic vermilion pagoda.

    40 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Gion

    Gion is Kyoto's most famous geisha district, a beautifully preserved quarter of traditional wooden machiya teahouses, lantern-lit lanes and exclusive restaurants. Strolling its atmospheric streets with your guide, you may glimpse a geiko or maiko hurrying to an evening appointment.

    30 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 6
    Nishiki Market Shopping District

    Known as Kyoto's Kitchen, Nishiki Market is a lively covered arcade stretching five blocks, lined with over a hundred stalls selling fresh seafood, pickles, sweets, tea and local specialties. Your guide helps you sample the flavors and discover the produce that defines Kyoto cuisine.

    30 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 7
    Nijo Castle

    Nijo Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in 1603 as the Kyoto residence of the Tokugawa shoguns. Its ornate Ninomaru Palace features famous nightingale floors that chirp underfoot, lavish painted screens, and elegant gardens. Your guide brings the era of the samurai to life.

    40 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 8
    Yasaka Shrine

    Yasaka Shrine is a vivid vermilion Shinto shrine at the eastern end of Gion, founded over 1,300 years ago and beloved as the guardian shrine of the district. Its main gate, dance stage hung with hundreds of lanterns, and lively grounds make it a wonderful stop. Your guide shares its traditions and festivals.

    20 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Supplied by Japan Guide Agency
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Tags

Day Trips
Half-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Ports of Call Tours
Car Tours
Shore Excursions
Port Pickup
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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