Private Kyoto Tour by Car with Optional Nara or Osaka Add-Ons

5.0
(27 reviews)
Kyoto, Japan

7 to 8 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

This private car tour allows you to create your ideal day in Kyoto by choosing from three flexible options: a Kyoto 1-Day Highlights Tour, a Kyoto & Nara cultural journey, or a Kyoto & Osaka adventure. Every itinerary is fully customizable to match your interests and pace. If there are places you'd like to add—or locations you've already visited—we will adjust the route to design the perfect day for you.

Travel comfortably by private car with a friendly local guide who brings history, culture, and local stories to life. Whether you want to explore the bamboo forest of Arashiyama, admire the Golden Pavilion, meet Nara’s sacred deer, or enjoy Osaka’s lively streets, you can experience Japan’s most iconic sights at your own rhythm, without rushing or following a set schedule.

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors, families, and couples who want a smooth, personalized, and unforgettable sightseeing experience. Discover Kyoto—and beyond—in the most flexible and enjoyable way.

What's Included

Air-conditioned vehicle
Fuel surcharge
Parking Fees
Breakfast
Lunch
Bottled water
Admission fees to temples and shrines are not included

Meeting and pickup

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

We offer free pickup from any hotel within Kyoto City, even if your accommodation does not appear in the list of selectable options. After your booking is confirmed, we will contact you to arrange the exact pickup location—so please rest assured.

If you have a preferred drop-off point after the tour, feel free to let us know. We are happy to accommodate your request whenever it fits naturally with the day’s itinerary.

Itinerary

Duration: 7 to 8 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Arashiyama

    We will explore Japan’s most famous bamboo forest. If you would like this itinerary, please select the “Kyoto one day ” option when making your reservation.

    45 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Kinkakuji Temple

    We will visit Golden Temple "Golden Pavilion". If you would like this itinerary, please select the “Kyoto one day tour option” option when making your reservation.

    45 minutes Admission ticket not included
  • 3
    Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine

    This shrine is included in all options. Start the day at Kyoto’s famous Fushimi Inari Shrine, where thousands of red torii gates create one of the most photogenic spots in Japan. Walk through the tunnels of gates while your local guide shares fun stories and hidden facts. After soaking up the peaceful vibe, we’ll head out to Nara by private car.

    45 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Nara Park

    If you would like this itinerary, please select the “Kyoto Nara Private Tour ” option when making your reservation. Meet Nara’s most famous residents—friendly deer that roam freely in the park. Feed them, take cute selfies, and enjoy some relaxed time under the trees. This part of the tour is free time, so feel free to explore, take photos, or simply enjoy the peaceful vibe. You can join the guide for lunch or choose a local restaurant on your own. It’s a great moment to slow down and enjoy Nara at your own pace.

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Todai-ji Temple

    If you would like this itinerary, please select the “Kyoto Nara Private Tour ” option when making your reservation. Visit Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks. Step inside the world’s largest wooden building and come face to face with Japan’s Great Buddha, a giant bronze statue standing over 15 meters tall. Your guide will explain the temple’s rich history, how it was built in the 8th century, and its spiritual meaning in Japanese Buddhism. We’ll also show you some fun hidden details—like the famous “healing pillar”—and help you find the best angles for impressive photos.

    40 minutes Admission ticket not included
  • 6
    Kasuga Grand Shrine

    If you would like this itinerary, please select the “Kyoto Nara Private Tour ” option when making your reservation. Take a peaceful walk through a forest path lined with mossy stone lanterns to reach Kasuga Taisha Shrine, one of Nara’s most sacred places. With its quiet atmosphere and thousands of lanterns, this shrine offers a glimpse into Japan’s ancient spiritual traditions. Your guide will share the story behind the shrine, its connection to nature, and how it remains an active place of worship. It’s also a great chance to take atmospheric photos surrounded by greenery and light.

    30 minutes Admission ticket not included
  • 7
    Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    We will visit Kiyomizu temple. If you would like this itinerary, please select the “Kyoto one day tour option” option when making your reservation.

    45 minutes Admission ticket not included
  • 8
    Tenryu-ji Temple

    We will visit Tenryuji Temple. If you would like this itinerary, please select the “Kyoto one day tour option” option when making your reservation.

    45 minutes Admission ticket not included
  • 9
    Nishiki Market Shopping District

    We will visit Nishiki Market. If you would like this itinerary, please select the “Kyoto one day tour option” option when making your reservation.

    1 hour Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by japa-kon

Tags

Day Trips
Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private Sightseeing Tours
Historical Tours
Car Tours
Best Conversion
Involves Animals
Additional fees
Low Supplier Cancellation Rate
Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate
New Product
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

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

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Rating

5.0 Based on 27 27 reviews
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