Kyoto: Private and Customized Tour (Walking/Public Transportation)

Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, offers a wealth of cultural riches. Explore this enchanting city on a private, customized tour that caters to your interests. With a dedicated guide, you’ll navigate iconic sites like Kinkakuji Temple and Fushimi Inari Taisha, utilizing walking and public transportation for a seamless experience. Priced at $111.48 per person, this 5-hour adventure promises to immerse you in Kyoto’s timeless beauty. But the true allure lies in the opportunity to craft your own itinerary, ensuring your journey reflects your unique preferences.

Key Points

• Explore iconic Kyoto locations on a private 5-hour tour, with flexible itinerary customization and seamless transportation via trains, buses, and taxis.
• Benefit from a dedicated private guide’s insider knowledge and personalized pacing to visit preferred sights like Kinkakuji Temple or Fushimi Inari Taisha.
• Tour routes can include highlights such as Kinkakuji, Arashiyama, Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, and Gion, tailored to guest interests.
• Tour price starts from $111.48 per person, including private guide, hotel pickup, and transportation costs, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Comfortable walking shoes and cash for entrance fees and optional tips are recommended, as the tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This private tour in Kyoto offers a personalized experience exploring the city’s iconic locations.

The 5-hour tour is priced from $111.48 per person and includes a private guide, hotel pickup, and transportation costs. Guests can choose from several preset routes or customize their own itinerary based on their interests.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later.

The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, and visitors should wear comfortable shoes and carry cash for any entrance fees or optional tips.

Tour Experience and Customization

Guests on this private tour in Kyoto can expect a personalized experience exploring the city’s iconic locations.

The tour guide will tailor the itinerary to the group’s interests and preferences. Key features of the tour experience include:

1. A dedicated private guide to provide insider knowledge and navigate the city.
2. Flexibility to visit the sights that most appeal to you, whether that’s Kinkakuji Temple, Arashiyama, or Fushimi Inari Taisha.
3. Seamless transportation using trains, buses, and taxis to maximize efficiency.
4. Customized pacing and breaks to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable day.

Available Routes and Highlights

The private tour in Kyoto offers four distinct routes that allow guests to explore the city’s renowned landmarks and cultural treasures.

Route 1 covers the iconic Kinkakuji Temple, the serene Arashiyama district, and the famous Fushimi Inari Taisha.

Route 2 takes visitors to the north, including Kinkakuji, Ryoanji, Tenryuji Temple, and Arashiyama.

Southeast Kyoto is the focus of Route 3, with highlights like Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Gion, and Nishiki Market.

The northeast route, Route 4, showcases Ginkakuji Temple, The Philosophers Path, Nanzenji Temple, and Heian Jingu.

Each itinerary can be customized to match guests’ interests and preferences.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The private Kyoto tour includes a private tour guide, hotel pickup, and transportation fees (around $12 per person), as well as the customization of the itinerary.

However, the tour excludes the following:

• Lunch/food
• Drinks
• Entrance fees (about $3 per place)
• Optional tips

Entrance fees for the tour guide may vary.

It’s worth noting that the tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

Comfortable shoes and cash are recommended, as public transport, such as trains, buses, and cabs, will be used, along with potential hikes and stairs.

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Important Information and Recommendations

While the private Kyoto tour offers a personalized experience, it may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves utilizing public transportation and potentially navigating stairs and hiking.

Guests are advised to carry cash, as some entrance fees may only be payable in cash. Plus, having an IC card like Suica, Pasmo, or ICOCA can be helpful for seamless public transport use.

The tour guide will assist with navigating the optimal routes and itinerary based on the chosen destinations.

Choosing the Right Route for Your Interests

When planning your private Kyoto tour, it’s important to consider your specific interests and preferences to choose the route that best suits your needs.

The four main route options offer distinct experiences:

1. Route 1 focuses on the picturesque Kinkakuji Temple, serene Arashiyama, and iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha.

2. Route 2 showcases the northern highlights like Kinkakuji, Ryoanji, Tenryuji, and Arashiyama.

3. Route 3 explores the southeast with Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, Gion, and Nishiki Market.

4. Route 4 takes you northeast to Ginkakuji, the Philosophers Path, Nanzenji, and Heian Jingu.

Carefully consider your interests to select the route that will provide the most memorable Kyoto experience.

Getting to Your Destinations Efficiently

Once you’ve selected the Kyoto route that aligns with your interests, the next step is getting to your destinations efficiently.

Your private tour guide will handle all the logistics, ensuring you navigate the city with ease. You’ll utilize public transportation like trains, buses, and taxis to travel between sites. This approach allows you to maximize your time and avoid the hassle of driving.

Your guide will provide helpful tips on using the IC transit cards and navigating the public system. With their expertise, you’ll seamlessly transition between Kyoto’s iconic landmarks on your personalized tour.

Enhancing Your Kyoto Tour Experience

To enhance your Kyoto tour experience, your private guide will go above and beyond to customize the itinerary based on your interests and preferences.

They’ll provide:

1. Insider knowledge of the best times to visit popular sites to avoid crowds.
2. Recommendations for hidden gems and local experiences off the beaten path.
3. Seamless transportation planning using public transit or private vehicles.
4. Flexible scheduling to accommodate your pace and allow for spontaneous discoveries.

With a tailored approach, you’ll dive deeper into Kyoto’s rich history and culture, creating cherished memories of your private tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Combine Different Route Options During the Tour?

Yes, the tour allows you to combine different route options during the 5-hour experience. The itinerary can be customized based on your preferences and interests to visit the iconic locations across Kyoto.

How Do I Request Dietary Preferences or Food Restrictions?

To request dietary preferences or food restrictions, you can inform the tour provider when booking the tour. They’ll work to accommodate your needs and provide recommendations for suitable dining options during the customized itinerary.

Are Discounts Available for Seniors, Students, or Children?

Discounts aren’t explicitly mentioned, but travelers can inquire about potential senior, student, or child discounts when booking the tour. The tour provider may offer reduced rates for certain age groups or student status.

Can the Tour Be Extended Beyond the 5-Hour Duration?

Yes, the tour can be extended beyond the 5-hour duration, but additional fees will apply. Customers can discuss their preferred tour length with the tour provider and receive a customized quote based on their needs.

How Do I Best Prepare for the Weather During the Tour?

To best prepare for the weather, one should check the forecast and pack layers that can be easily added or removed. Bringing an umbrella or rain jacket is recommended, as weather conditions can change quickly.

The Sum Up

This Kyoto tour provides a personalized and immersive experience, allowing travelers to explore the city’s iconic sights at their own pace. With a dedicated guide, seamless transportation, and the flexibility to curate the itinerary, this tour offers an efficient and enriching way to discover the beauty and cultural treasures of Kyoto. Whether you’re interested in temples, shrines, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, this private tour is an excellent choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: