Kyoto Private & Personalized Full-Day Tour with a Local Guide

4.7
(31 reviews)

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

Discover Kyoto in a truly personal way on this full-day private walking tour with a local host who knows the city inside out. This isn’t a rigid sightseeing schedule—it’s a flexible, customized experience designed entirely around you.

Stroll historic lanes, visit hidden shops, admire serene temples and gardens, and hear the local stories that bring Kyoto’s culture to life. Your host will craft the route to match your interests, whether you’re drawn to history, food, architecture, tradition, or off-the-beaten-path discoveries.

After booking, you’ll receive a short questionnaire about your interests. Your host will then reach out to suggest an authentic, flexible itinerary that feels like exploring Kyoto with a knowledgeable friend eager to share the city’s secrets.

What's Included

Private and personalized 8-hour walking experience with a passionate local
Direct communication with your host for itinerary planning and local recommendations.
Pre-tour questionnaire to tailor the experience to your preferences
Flexible start times - choose your preferred time when booking
Food, drinks and tickets to any attractions
Transportation (primarily a walking experience, public transport may be used at an additional cost)
Gratuities (optional)

Meeting and pickup

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

This is a walking tour. Your host will meet you at your selected hotel, and the tour will begin on foot. If you’d prefer to meet at a central location instead, please choose the meeting point option. If your hotel isn’t on the list, simply select the central landmark option. This is a private walking experience. Once you’ve booked, our Experience Planners will get in touch to confirm the meeting point and help with any final details to ensure a smooth and enjoyable start to your personalized tour. NO private vehicle is included. For longer distances, your host may suggest using public transport. Any transport costs can be settled on the day.

OR
Meeting point

This is a great central point to meet your host if your hotel is not listed.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 8 hours (approximately)
  • (Pass by)

    Get an authentic introduction to Kyoto with your private guide on a fully personalized full-day walking tour. Your route is designed around your interests and pace, offering an insider’s view of the city’s rich history, cultural traditions, and hidden gems. Here are some highlights you might explore:

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Explore this striking modern landmark with its dramatic architecture, rooftop gardens, and panoramic city views—a perfect gateway to your Kyoto adventure.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Head north to visit this revered shrine, dedicated to the scholar Sugawara no Michizane. It’s famous for its plum blossoms in late winter and its lively monthly market. Your guide can also recommend an excellent nearby spot to try Kyoto’s specialty, yuba (tofu skin).

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Continue to one of Kyoto’s most iconic sights. Originally a shogun’s villa, Kinkaku-ji was transformed into a Zen temple in the 1400s and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire its gleaming gold-leaf exterior reflected in the surrounding pond.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Journey south to the atmospheric lanes of Higashiyama. Wander these beautifully preserved, sloping streets lined with wooden townhouses, traditional merchant shops, cafes, and restaurants offering Kyoto specialties. It’s the perfect place to shop for pottery, sweets, crafts, and other local treasures.

    Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    Finish your day at one of Japan’s most celebrated temples. Famous for its massive wooden stage with sweeping city views, Kiyomizu-dera is especially beautiful during autumn foliage season. Don’t miss the Otowa Waterfall, whose three streams promise longevity, academic success, or good fortune in love—choose your wish wisely!

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • After booking, you'll receive a short questionnaire to share your interests, preferences, and must-sees. Your guide will personally reach out to craft a fully customized itinerary that suits your style—whether you love history, food, hidden gems, or cultural experiences.
  • This private tour is a walking experience. A private vehicle is not included.
Supplied by City Unscripted

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Tags

Full-day Tours
Private and Luxury
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
City Tours
Likely to Sell Out
Excellent Quality
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

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

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Rating

4.7 Based on 31 31 reviews
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