Kyoto Autumn Foliage Private Car Tour Temples and Gardens

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6 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

Experience the stunning autumn foliage of Kyoto with a private tour tailored to the season. Guided by an expert, you’ll visit renowned temples and gardens, handpicked to showcase the vibrant colors at their peak. In early November, explore serene sites like Enko-ji, transitioning to iconic spots such as Eikando and the bamboo grove in Arashiyama during mid-to-late November. Even in early December, witness the beauty of fallen leaves at temples like Komyo-ji. Enjoy insightful commentary on Kyoto’s rich culture and history while avoiding crowded areas for a more intimate experience.

- Private 6-hour tour of Kyoto's autumn foliage highlights
- Tailored itinerary based on seasonal changes for optimal views
- Visit famous temples and tranquil gardens with expert guidance
- Enjoy insights into Kyoto’s culture, history, and traditions

What's Included

Air-conditioned vehicle
Parking Fees
Entrance fees for temples and gardens are not included in the tour price. Guests are kindly requested to pay these fees directly at each site for themselves and for the guide.
Meals are not included. Your guide will be happy to recommend local restaurants or arrange a stop according to your preferences and dietary needs. Guests are responsible for their own lunch expenses.

Meeting and pickup

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

Meeting Point Information: Hotel pick-up: Please wait in the hotel lobby at the scheduled start time. Your guide/driver will meet you there. Hotels without a driveway: If your accommodation does not have a driveway or car entrance, we may meet on the street directly in front of the hotel entrance. Kyoto Station pick-up: The meeting point is at the Kyoto Station "General Boarding/Drop-off Area" . Please wait there at the scheduled start time. Google Maps location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/z4HjxwJUr9v25zoX8 Airbnb/guesthouse stays: Please provide the exact address in advance so that we can confirm the most convenient meeting point nearby.

Itinerary

Duration: 6 hours (approximately)
  • 1

    Often called the “Temple of Autumn Leaves,” Eikando is one of Kyoto’s most celebrated spots for fall foliage. Visitors can stroll through its expansive temple grounds, admire the reflection of crimson maple trees on the pond, and enjoy breathtaking views from the hillside pagoda. The temple’s rich history, dating back to the Heian period, adds cultural depth to the vibrant seasonal scenery.

    30 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 2

    One of Kyoto’s most important Zen temples, Nanzen-ji is especially striking in autumn when its massive Sanmon gate is surrounded by fiery maple leaves. Guests can walk through the spacious temple grounds, discover the famous red-brick aqueduct, and enjoy the peaceful harmony of nature and architecture.

    30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
  • 3

    A hidden gem in northern Kyoto, Shisendo features an intimate garden framed by glowing maple trees. Guests can enjoy the tranquility of this poet’s hermitage, where the quiet atmosphere and seasonal beauty create a perfect retreat from the city’s crowds.

    30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
  • 4

    Famous for its “framed view” of a vibrant autumn garden, Enko-ji combines colorful maples with moss-covered grounds. Visitors can sit on the veranda to admire the picture-like scenery or climb the hillside behind the temple for panoramic views of Kyoto.

    30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
  • 5

    Kyoto’s most iconic landmark, Kinkaku-ji dazzles with its golden pavilion reflected in a serene pond. In autumn, the temple is surrounded by brilliant red and orange maple leaves, creating a striking contrast with the shimmering gold and lush evergreens. Guests can stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens and capture unforgettable photographs of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

    30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
  • 6

    Spanning the Katsura River, Togetsukyo Bridge offers sweeping views of the Arashiyama mountains blanketed in autumn colors. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk across the bridge, admire the reflection of crimson leaves on the water, and experience one of Kyoto’s most beloved seasonal landscapes.

    30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
  • 7

    A UNESCO World Heritage site, Tenryu-ji is renowned for its landscaped garden framed by brilliant autumn colors and the Arashiyama mountains. After exploring the temple, visitors can stroll through the nearby bamboo grove, one of Kyoto’s most iconic and photogenic landscapes.

    30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
  • 8

    Famous for its towering five-story pagoda, the tallest in Japan, To-ji offers a spectacular backdrop of autumn foliage. Visitors can stroll through spacious temple grounds where vibrant red and yellow leaves frame historic wooden halls and tranquil ponds. In the evening, the temple is also renowned for seasonal light-ups, creating a magical atmosphere during Kyoto’s autumn nights.

    30 minutes • Admission ticket not included

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
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by ホプテラス

Tags

Nature and Wildlife Tours
Half-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Seasonal
Car Tours
Additional fees
New Product

Cancellation Policy

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

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