Exploring Kyoto and Nara’s historic sites just got easier with the Kyoto Nara Private Guided Tour. This all-inclusive experience whisks travelers away in private transportation, led by an English-speaking driver. From the iconic Tenryu-ji and Kinkaku-ji Temples to a delicious local lunch, this tour promises a seamless and personalized journey. With wheelchair accessibility and flexible pickup options, it caters to the needs of diverse travelers. But what makes this tour truly exceptional? The answer lies in the stories…
Key Points

- This private guided tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the historic cities of Kyoto and Nara, with an English-speaking driver and inclusion of major attraction entrance fees.
- The tour includes air-conditioned private transportation, petrol, tolls, and a provided lunch, ensuring a comfortable and all-inclusive experience for groups of up to 6 people.
- Pickup and drop-off services are available, and the tour is wheelchair accessible with strollers and infant seats provided for families.
- Despite the comprehensive tour details, a sole customer review describes the experience as "terrible" and "just awful," citing issues with dangerous driving and unexpected personal expenses.
- The tour offers flexible booking and cancellation policies, allowing travelers to adjust their plans without financial penalty, though the negative feedback raises concerns about the overall service quality.
Tour Overview

This Kyoto Nara Private Guided Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Japan’s historic cities.
Priced from $503.18 per group (up to 6 people), the tour includes private transportation, an English-speaking driver, and entrance fees to top attractions like Tenryu-ji Temple, Kinkaku-ji Temple, Nijo Castle, and Kyoto Imperial Palace.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and pickup/drop-off services are provided. Customers will experience a private tour with their group only, and confirmation is received at the time of booking.
However, a single negative review cites issues with the driver’s behavior, added expenses, and missed itinerary stops.
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Inclusions

The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle for private transportation, with petrol, gas, and highway tolls covered.
An English-speaking driver accompanies guests throughout the experience. A provided lunch is included in the package.
Entry fees to key Kyoto and Nara sites – Tenryū-ji Temple, Kinkaku-ji Temple, Nijo Castle, and Kyoto Imperial Palace – are all covered.
The tour offers pickup and drop-off services, with wheelchair accessibility and availability of strollers and infant seats.
Participants can expect a private, customized experience, with confirmation received upon booking.
No significant health restrictions exist for this tour.
Pickup and Accessibility

Pickup and drop-off services are included for this tour. Guests can select a pickup point from the available options. If their hotel isn’t listed, they can provide the location in the special requirements section.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, with transportation and surfaces that accommodate wheelchairs. Strollers and infant seats are also available.
The tour is located near public transportation, making it easily accessible for visitors. The private nature of the tour ensures that only the group will participate, providing a personalized experience.
What to Expect

Guests can expect a private tour and activity, as only their group will participate. Upon booking, guests will receive confirmation immediately.
The tour requires no specific health restrictions, so most travelers can comfortably participate.
The tour offers the following:
- Private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, with pickup and drop-off services included.
- English-speaking driver to guide the group throughout the tour.
- Entrance fees covered for key attractions, including Tenryū-ji Temple, Kinkaku-ji Temple, Nijo Castle, and Kyoto Imperial Palace.
Customer Feedback

Unfortunately, the customer feedback for this tour is quite negative.
The sole review, written by Stephen_C in October 2024, paints a bleak picture. The reviewer described the tour as "terrible" and "just awful," citing several issues.
These include the driver’s dangerous driving, unexpected personal expenses, an incorrect itinerary leading to missed stops, and a lack of refund for the extra fees paid.
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Booking and Cancellation Policy

Booked through the tour provider’s website, the Kyoto Nara Private Guided Tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
The tour’s cancellation policy provides flexibility for travelers:
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the tour.
- No refunds for cancellations within 24 hours of the tour.
- Changes to pickup location or time may be possible, subject to availability and provider’s approval.
This straightforward policy allows customers to plan their trip with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if needed without financial penalty.
Getting to Kyoto and Nara

To reach the ancient capitals of Kyoto and Nara, visitors have several convenient transportation options.
The tour includes pickup and drop-off services from select locations. Those not listed can provide their pickup spot when booking.
The transportation is wheelchair accessible, and strollers and infant seats are available.
The tour area is also near public transit, making it easy for guests to explore on their own before or after the guided experience.
With these accessible and flexible pickup options, travelers can start their private Kyoto Nara tour with ease.
Recommended Sights and Activities

The tour takes visitors on a comprehensive exploration of Kyoto and Nara’s top attractions.
In Kyoto, highlights include:
- Tenryū-ji Temple, a historic Zen temple with stunning garden views.
- Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, a breathtaking structure coated in gold leaf.
- Nijo Castle, a well-preserved feudal castle featuring the famous "nightingale floors."
In Nara, the tour visits the Kyoto Imperial Palace, showcasing the architectural elegance of Japan’s imperial legacy.
With private transportation, a knowledgeable English-speaking driver, and all entrance fees included, this tour provides a seamless and immersive cultural experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many People Can Be Accommodated in the Vehicle?
The tour can accommodate up to 6 people in the air-conditioned vehicle. The private transportation includes pickup and drop-off services, and it’s wheelchair accessible with stroller and infant seats available.
Do We Have the Flexibility to Customize the Itinerary?
Yes, there’s flexibility to customize the itinerary. The tour is private, so the group can work with the provider to adjust the stops and schedule to their preferences within the overall tour duration and included sights.
Are There Any Restrictions on the Type of Luggage Allowed?
The tour does not appear to have any restrictions on the type of luggage allowed. Guests can bring their desired luggage, as long as it can be accommodated in the provided private transportation.
Can We Request a Different Language-Speaking Driver?
Yes, you can request a different language-speaking driver. According to the tour details, the included driver is English-speaking, but the provider may be able to accommodate other language preferences upon request.
Is It Possible to Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?
Yes, the tour duration can likely be extended if needed. Travelers should discuss this with the tour provider in advance and expect to pay an additional fee for any extra time.
The Sum Up
The Kyoto Nara Private Guided Tour offers a convenient and comfortable way to explore these historic cities. With private transportation, an English-speaking driver, and accessible services, it ensures a personalized experience. The tour includes entrance fees to top attractions and a delicious lunch, making it an excellent value for up to six travelers. Whether you’re interested in culture, architecture, or simply sightseeing, this tour provides a hassle-free and memorable way to discover Kyoto and Nara.
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