• Arashiyama - Situated in western Kyoto, Japan, Arashiyama is a charming district celebrated for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural history. It is most famous for the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where visitors can stroll through an enchanting path flanked by towering bamboo stalks. The area also boasts the historic Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful gardens, and the picturesque Togetsukyo Bridge, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Arashiyama is particularly captivating during the cherry blossom season in spring and the vibrant autumn foliage, making it a favored destination throughout the year.
• Kinkakuji Temple - Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, was initially constructed in 1397 as a retirement villa for the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. Following his passing, the villa was transformed into a Zen Buddhist temple. The structure showcases a blend of traditional Japanese and Chinese architectural styles. Although the original building was destroyed by arson in 1950, it was reconstructed in 1955, with the top two floors adorned in gold leaf, symbolizing purity and enlightenment.
• Nishiki Market Shopping District - Nishiki Market (Nishiki Ichiba) is a narrow, five-block-long shopping street lined with over one hundred shops and restaurants. Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” this bustling market specializes in all things food-related, such as fresh seafood, produce, knives, and cookware, and is an excellent place to discover seasonal foods and Kyoto specialties, including Japanese sweets, pickles, dried seafood, and sushi. Nishiki Market has a lively yet welcoming atmosphere that invites exploration of the culinary delights Kyoto is renowned for. The market’s stores range from small, narrow stalls to larger two-story shops, with most specializing in a specific type of food, and nearly everything sold is locally produced and sourced.
• Gion - Gion (祇園) is Kyoto’s most renowned geisha district, located around Shijo Avenue between Yasaka Shrine in the east and the Kamo River in the west. It is filled with shops, restaurants, and ochaya (teahouses), where geiko (Kyoto dialect for geisha) and maiko (geiko apprentices) entertain.
• Kiyomizu-dera Temple - Kiyomizudera, translating to “Pure Water Temple,” is one of Japan’s most famous temples. It derives its name from the pristine waters of the Otowa Waterfall, located on the forested hillsides east of Kyoto, where it was founded in 780. Initially associated with the Hosso sect, one of the oldest schools of Japanese Buddhism, the temple established the Kita Hosso sect in 1965. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994. The most notable feature of Kiyomizudera is its wooden stage, which extends 13 meters over the hillside from the main hall. Visitors can enjoy a delightful view of the cherry and maple trees below, which burst into a sea of color from the stage.
• Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine - Fushimi Inari Taisha is one of Kyoto’s most iconic Shinto shrines, dedicated to Inari, the deity of rice, prosperity, and business. Established in 711 AD, it is renowned for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates (senbon torii) that form tunnels along the trails leading up Mount Inari. These gates, donated by individuals and businesses, symbolize gratitude and prayers for success. The shrine is also known for its fox statues, believed to be Inari’s messengers. Visitors often hike the path up the mountain, which offers scenic views of Kyoto along the way.
• Sanjusangendo Temple - Sanjusangendo is a historic Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan, famous for housing 1,001 statues of Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy. Its name, meaning “thirty-three bays,” reflects the 33 intervals between the hall’s supporting columns. Originally built in the 12th century, the temple is an architectural marvel showcasing traditional wooden craftsmanship. Visitors are captivated by the serene atmosphere and the awe-inspiring display of life-sized statues, making it an important cultural and spiritual landmark.

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off
• Pick-up from Osaka and Nara available (extra fee)
• English-speaking driver
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Private transportation

• Food not included
• Admission tickets are not included. Travelers can purchase these directly at location.

Experience Kyoto in Comfort and Elegance!

Uncover the ageless charm of Kyoto with our exclusive, private day tour by car. Designed specifically for you, we craft a personalized itinerary that aligns with your interests, enabling you to explore Kyoto’s famous attractions at your leisure. In just one day, visit celebrated sites like Kinkaku-ji, Kiyomizu-dera, Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, and the serene bamboo grove of Arashiyama!

The itinerary is adaptable to your preferences.

• This experience includes an English-speaking driver
• Special rides, cruises, and admission tickets aren’t included and can be purchased directly at each location.

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