1-Day Kyoto & Nara Day Trip Highlights Tour with a Private Car
10 hours
(4)
Experience the best of Kyoto and Nara in one day with a private car, expert guide, and visits to top UNESCO sites. Enjoy local culture, history, and even feed Nara’s friendly deer for a truly memorable trip.
Hotel Pick-up (Please provide the place to pick up at least 24 hours before the tour starting time.) 10-hour Private Chauffeur Service with a Licensed Japanese Driver Lunch (Vegetarian, Vegan and Gluten-free options are available with advanced request.) Entrance fees of all venues we will visit 10 Hours of local guide Tour photos (Photos during the tour would be shared after the tour through email.) 1 drink (Alcohol and Non-alcohol drinks available.)
Your guide will meet you at your hotel or the arranged meeting point. After introductions, step into your private car with a professional driver to begin a stress-free day of sightseeing.
2
68 Fukakusa Yabunouchichō, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto
Duration: 1 hour
Walk through the famous red torii gates of Fushimi Inari, one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks. Learn about the shrine’s history and enjoy its peaceful mountain paths.
3
406-1 Zōshichō, Nara
Duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Visit the impressive Great Buddha Hall, one of the world’s largest wooden structures. Here, you’ll see the enormous bronze Buddha and hear stories of its rich past.
4
406-1 Zōshichō, Nara
Duration: 1 hour
Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available if requested beforehand.
5
160 Kasuganochō, Nara
Duration: 1 hour
Stroll along lantern-lined paths leading to this beautiful shrine, surrounded by ancient forest and known for its spiritual atmosphere.
6
1-1 Horyuji Sannai, Ikaruga, Ikoma District, Nara
Duration: 1 hour
Explore one of the oldest wooden temples in the world, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a glimpse into Japan’s early Buddhist culture.
7
Kyoto
Duration: 1 hour
On the way back, pass through Kyoto’s Gion district, known for its traditional teahouses and geisha culture. Capture a final glimpse of Kyoto’s charm before heading to your drop-off point.
Your driver will take you back to your hotel or another location of your choice in Kyoto, concluding a full day of cultural discovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
The tour lasts about 10 hours from start to finish. It covers both Kyoto and Nara, including transfers, sightseeing, lunch, and a comfortable return to your hotel.
A clean and modern private vehicle with air conditioning will be provided. The car size depends on your group, ensuring everyone has enough space to ride comfortably.
A set lunch at a local restaurant is included. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals can be arranged if requested in advance. Drinks are not included except for one complimentary beverage.
Most costs are already covered. However, you may want to bring extra cash or a card for personal shopping, souvenirs, or additional food and drinks.
It is recommended to book at least a few days before your preferred date to secure availability, especially during peak travel seasons like spring cherry blossom and autumn foliage.
What a wonderful day with Meri. We enjoyed seeing the best sights around Kyoto and Nara. She is very personable and knowledgeable.
Greg P
March 18, 2026
Great time with a really knowledgeable guide
We had a great day with Mari. Mari was able to adjust the tour to take advantage of the rain. As a result we spent some time admiring a Zen garden which was very peaceful and beautiful. Mari also had some great suggestions for places to eat in Kyoto (try the restaurants on the top two floors of the department store above the train station.) As well as some suggestions for our free day in Kyoto.
Christopher P
March 13, 2026
Greg P
March 18, 2026
Day tour of Nara and Kyoto
What a wonderful day with Meri. We enjoyed seeing the best sights around Kyoto and Nara. She is very personable and knowledgeable.
Christopher P
March 13, 2026
Great time with a really knowledgeable guide
We had a great day with Mari. Mari was able to adjust the tour to take advantage of the rain. As a result we spent some time admiring a Zen garden which was very peaceful and beautiful. Mari also had some great suggestions for places to eat in Kyoto (try the restaurants on the top two floors of the department store above the train station.) As well as some suggestions for our free day in Kyoto.