• Arashiyama Bamboo Forest - Arashiyama is a charming, tourist-friendly district located on the western outskirts of Kyoto. This area has been a favored destination since the Heian Period (794-1185), when nobles would visit to enjoy its natural beauty. Arashiyama is especially popular during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. The Togetsukyo Bridge serves as Arashiyama’s iconic central landmark. Nearby, visitors can find numerous small shops, restaurants, and attractions, including the Tenryuji Temple, Arashiyama’s renowned bamboo groves, and pleasure boats available for rent on the river.
• Kinkakuji Temple - Kinkakuji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a Zen temple in northern Kyoto, with its top two floors entirely covered in gold leaf. Originally the retirement villa of shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, it became a Zen temple of the Rinzai sect following his death in 1408, as per his will. Kinkakuji inspired the similarly named Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion), constructed by Yoshimitsu’s grandson, Ashikaga Yoshimasa, on the opposite side of the city a few decades later. Kinkakuji is an impressive structure overlooking a large pond and is the only remaining building of Yoshimitsu’s former retirement complex. It has been rebuilt several times due to fires, including twice during the Onin War, a civil war that devastated much of Kyoto, and once more in 1950 when it was set ablaze by a fanatic monk. The current structure was reconstructed in 1955.
• Nishiki Market Shopping District - Nishiki Market, also known as Nishiki Ichiba, is a narrow, five-block-long shopping street lined with over one hundred shops and restaurants. Dubbed “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” this vibrant market specializes in all things food-related, such as fresh seafood, produce, knives, and cookware. It is an excellent place to discover seasonal foods and Kyoto specialties, including Japanese sweets, pickles, dried seafood, and sushi. Nishiki Market offers a lively yet welcoming atmosphere, perfect for those eager to explore Kyoto’s renowned culinary delights. The market features a range of store sizes, from small narrow stalls to larger two-story shops, with most specializing in a specific type of food. Nearly everything sold at the market is locally produced and sourced.
• Nijo Castle - Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was constructed in 1603 as the Kyoto residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo Period (1603-1867).
• Gion - Navigating the narrow alleyways of Kyoto’s Geisha District, Gion, can be challenging for first-time visitors. A guided tour can alleviate the worry of getting lost, offering a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems cherished by locals and learn about Kyoto’s rich history. Highlights include insights into Geisha culture and rituals, as well as visits to Gion, Pontocho, and Miyagawacho.
• Kiyomizu-dera Temple - Explore one of Kyoto’s most beloved temples, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, with a comprehensive 1-hour guided tour. Touring the temple grounds with a guide allows for an enriching experience, providing insights into Japan’s history and culture while admiring the magnificent architecture. Enjoy commentary from an English-speaking guide who ensures no important features are overlooked.
• Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine - Experience a unique glimpse into Japan’s heritage, typically inaccessible to ordinary tourists, with this short yet valuable tour of Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine. The Fushimi Inari Shrine offers much more than its famous tunnels of vermillion-red torii gates. While many are content with the scenic view, the shrine holds numerous stories that connect visitors to Japan’s history and culture. A knowledgeable guide will delve deeper into the fascinating origins of the shrine, dedicated to the god of grains, “Inari.” This is why fox statues, or “Kitsune,” are found around the shrine, as they serve as messengers to the god Inari. These clever and cunning animals are considered ideal guides for navigating the complex business world, and visitors may find themselves wanting the foxes on their side after the tour.

• In-vehicle air conditioning

Avoid crowded public transport: Explore Kyoto in a private vehicle
A fantastic way to see multiple attractions in one day
• Customizable and flexible tour: Select from a variety of destinations
• Possible stops include Gion, Kyoto Imperial Palace, and Kinkaku-ji Temple
Navigating the subway system and local bus network can be quite confusing for tourists in Kyoto, so eliminate the stress of getting lost by choosing this hassle-free private tour. Enjoy door-to-door hotel transfers, and let a guide show you around key sights, such as Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, Nijo Castle, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, or Nishiki Market.

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