Private Guided Tour from Tokyo to Kyoto

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2 days (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: German and 1 more

Why Choose Kyoto 1-2-Day Tour

Experience Kyoto like never before — without the rush. Unlike larger group tours, we keep the pace comfortable and flexible, so you can truly enjoy each temple, garden, and historic street.

With a dedicated local guide by your side, you’ll never have to worry about directions, schedules, or missing hidden details. We handle all the logistics, from Shinkansen transfers to local buses, allowing you to focus entirely on the beauty and culture around you.

Approach is personal: we tailor explanations to your interests, answer every question, and ensure you discover Kyoto’s highlights in a relaxed, memorable way. This is more than a sightseeing trip — it’s a guided journey where your comfort, curiosity, and experience come first.

No crowded tour buses, no hurried photo stops — just a smooth, immersive exploration of Japan’s ancient capital.

What's Included

Personalized assistance and flexible pacing
Guided Tour for 1-2 days with your trusted guide from Tokyo (Guide never leaves you)
Admission fees for main temples
Local transport in Kyoto (bus/subway)
Group-pictures of you with famous landmarks
We will offer you a traditional Japanese beverage to enhance your authentic cultural experience.
2 Days option: Hotel is not included, approximately ¥ 30,000 per night but it depends on your wishes
We go eat together and the guide will recommend you good restaurants and dishes.
Shinkansen round-trip (Tokyo–Kyoto–Tokyo)

Meeting and pickup

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

We will contact you at least one week before the tour to confirm the meeting point.

OR
Meeting point
The Tokyo Station Hotel

We will meet you in front of the Tokyo Station Hotel, located at the central station square at Tokyo Station.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 2 days (approximately)
    Day 1

    Transfer & Day 1 Kyoto Sightseeing

    5 stops
  • 1
    Tokyo

    We’ll board the Shinkansen together and head to Kyoto — Japan’s ancient capital. During the journey, you’ll learn fascinating insights about Kyoto’s rich history, cultural heritage, and what makes this city one of Japan’s most treasured destinations.

    Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Kyoto

    Upon arriving in Kyoto, we’ll switch to local transportation and make your way to the first highlight of your Kyoto adventure — the perfect start to exploring this city’s timeless beauty and cultural treasures.

    Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine

    Famous for its thousands of bright red torii gates winding up the sacred Mount Inari, this shrine is one of Kyoto’s most iconic sights. Dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of prosperity and rice, the pathways create a mesmerizing tunnel through the forest. The atmosphere changes as you ascend — from lively at the base to peaceful near the summit. It’s a powerful introduction to Kyoto’s spiritual side and a perfect spot to experience traditional Shinto culture.

    Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Gion

    Step into Kyoto’s old world charm as you walk through Gion, the city’s historic geisha district. Wooden machiya houses, lantern-lit alleys, and the occasional glimpse of a geisha or maiko in kimono make this area feel timeless. It’s also home to Yasaka Shrine, connecting the vibrant streets of Shijo with the peaceful atmosphere of Maruyama Park. Gion perfectly captures Kyoto’s blend of elegance, tradition, and quiet beauty.

    Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Perched high on a hillside, Kiyomizu-dera offers sweeping views of Kyoto’s skyline. The temple’s huge wooden terrace, supported by hundreds of pillars, was built without a single nail. Visitors can admire the main hall, explore the Otowa Waterfall for good fortune, and stroll the nearby Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka streets full of tea houses and artisan shops. It’s a must-see that captures the spirit, craftsmanship, and harmony of ancient Kyoto.

    Admission ticket free
    • Day 2

    Day 2 Kyoto Sightseeing & Transfer back to Tokyo

    6 stops
  • 6
    Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

    Walk through one of Japan’s most photographed natural sights — the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Tall bamboo stalks rise overhead, creating a green tunnel that sways softly in the wind. The light, sound, and movement here feel almost otherworldly. Located near Tenryu-ji Temple and the Katsura River, this area is best enjoyed in the morning before the crowds arrive, when the atmosphere is truly magical.

    Admission ticket free
  • 7
    Tenryu-ji Temple

    A UNESCO World Heritage site, Tenryu-ji is one of Kyoto’s most important Zen temples. Its magnificent garden, designed in the 14th century, still preserves the original layout — with a pond reflecting the surrounding mountains. The temple combines elegant architecture with deep spiritual history. Many visitors pair it with a stroll through the adjacent bamboo grove for a serene and authentic Kyoto experience.

    Admission ticket free
  • 8
    Togetsukyo Bridge

    This graceful wooden bridge spans the Katsura River and offers stunning views of Arashiyama’s hills. “Togetsukyo” means “Moon Crossing Bridge,” a name said to come from an emperor who admired the moon moving over it. The area is picturesque year-round — cherry blossoms in spring, green mountains in summer, fiery leaves in autumn, and misty mornings in winter. It’s one of Kyoto’s most scenic spots and a perfect photo stop.

    Admission ticket free
  • 9
    Kinkakuji Temple

    Perhaps Kyoto’s most iconic landmark, Kinkaku-ji shimmers in gold leaf above a tranquil reflecting pond. Originally built as a samurai villa, it later became a Zen temple. Each floor represents a different architectural style, symbolizing harmony between heaven and earth. Surrounded by manicured gardens and pine trees, the Golden Pavilion captures the elegance and perfection of classical Japanese aesthetics.

    Admission ticket free
  • 10
    Nijo Castle

    Built in 1603 for the first Tokugawa shogun, Nijō Castle is a masterpiece of samurai architecture and design. The “nightingale floors” chirp softly as you walk, a security feature against intruders. Inside, you’ll find beautifully painted sliding doors depicting cranes and pines, symbols of longevity and power. The surrounding gardens offer a peaceful contrast to the grandeur of the palace buildings.

    Admission ticket free
  • 11
    Tokyo

    Transfer back to Tokyo

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Supplied by Shiny Tours Tokyo

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Tags

Overnight Tours
Multi-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private Sightseeing Tours
Rail Tours
Walking Tours
City Tours
Additional fees

Cancellation Policy

If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

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