Kyoto

Kyoto Private Car Tour: Explore Arashiyama, Kinkakuji, Fushimi Inari and More

Explore Kyoto's iconic landmarks including Tenryuji Temple and Fushimi Inari Shrine on a customizable private car tour, with hotel pickup and drop-off included for a hassle-free experience.

Location

Kyoto

Rating

Duration

8hrs/10hrs

Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Kyoto, where tradition meets tranquility. Our meticulously crafted tour invites you to explore the city's most enchanting sights from the comfort of a private vehicle tailored exclusively for you and your group. From the serene beauty of Tenryuji Temple's gardens to the mystical paths of Fushimi Inari Shrine, each stop is a chapter in Kyoto's rich tapestry of history and culture.

Your adventure begins with a convenient pickup from your central Kyoto accommodation, setting the tone for a day of exploration and discovery. As we navigate through the picturesque streets of Kyoto, you'll be immersed in the city's legendary landmarks, including the lush Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, the historic Okochi Sanso Villa, and the iconic torii gates that guide the way through Fushimi Inari.

But this tour is more than just sightseeing. It's an invitation to experience Kyoto through the eyes of a local, with insights and stories that bring each destination to life. Whether you're marveling at the golden pavilion of Kinkakuji, wandering through the ancient Zen rock garden of Ryoanji, or strolling through the atmospheric streets of Gion, every moment is an opportunity to connect with the soul of Kyoto.

With the flexibility to customize your itinerary, our tour ensures that your time in Kyoto is exactly as you wish. Whether you're seeking spiritual solace, cultural enrichment, or simply the beauty of nature, our tour is designed to cater to your interests, with the added luxury of skipping the hassle of public transport.

Tour Highlights

Exclusive visit to Tenryuji Temple and its serene gardens
Stroll through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Explore the historic Okochi Sanso Villa with a matcha tea break
Leisurely walk and potential shopping in Arashiyama town
Contemplative experience at Ryoanji, the oldest Zen rock garden
Brief exploration of the historic Gion district
Immersive visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine, away from the crowds

What's Covered

Hotel transfers in Kyoto
Vehicle costs
Guide fees

What's Extra

Food and drinks
Entry fees (2500 yen/adult, less for kids)
Non-central Kyoto pickups

Essentials to Know Before Booking

Comfortable shoes are recommended due to walking.
Wear adaptable clothing for changing weather.
Storage space is available in vehicle for extra clothing or umbrellas.
Itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to interests.
Tour subject to adjustments due to traffic or unforeseen circumstances.
Provide accommodation details for convenient hotel pickup in central Kyoto.
Private vehicle tours suitable for groups up to 9 people.
Choose from tour durations of 8 to 10 hours.

Related Read: Top 10 Sights to See in Kyoto

From $571

/group

Adults

Ages 0-99

A cancellation penalty of 50% applies if you cancel within 7 days of the start time.

The booking is non-refundable if you cancel within 2 days of the start time.

Reviews

Kyoto Private Car Tour: Explore Arashiyama, Kinkakuji, Fushimi Inari and More

12 reviews

1/1

Enjoyable and informative day!

Hugo was an amazing guide. He had incredible knowledge and was fun to be with for a whole day. Pinpoint was flexible in adjusting the itinerary for our specific interests. We really enjoyed our excursion.

TrailBlazer770027

December 22, 2024

We had a wonderful experience

It was a great day. Our guide Hugo was excellent. He was very knowledgeable and gave us an insight into the history and culture of the place, as well as an insight into way of life in Japan. Although we had much less time than originally planned for our visit to Kyoto (due to Royal Caribbean's Spectrum of the Seas shortening our stay in port), we have managed to see most of what was on our bespoke itinerary and get a proper taste of the city. We enjoyed our visit to Kyoto very much indeed :-)

Ira L

November 13, 2024

Enjoyable and informative day!

TrailBlazer770027

December 22, 2024

We had a wonderful experience

Ira L

November 13, 2024

Itinerary

Your Hotel in Kyoto

Kyoto

We meet you at your central Kyoto accommodation for convenience. Just provide your stay details.

Tenryuji Temple

Duration: 1 hour

Begin your exclusive Kyoto journey with a visit to the majestic Tenryuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning architecture and tranquil gardens. As we meander through this serene landscape, we'll make our way to the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, immersing ourselves in the lush greenery and timeless atmosphere that defines Kyoto's natural beauty.

Okochi Sanso Villa

Duration: 45 minutes

Next, we delve into the picturesque estate of Okochi Sanso, once home to a celebrated Japanese actor of the early 20th century. Wander through beautifully manicured gardens and historic buildings, capturing the essence of Japan's artistic and architectural heritage. We'll pause here for a refreshing matcha break, savoring the rich flavors of traditional powdered green tea.

Arashiyama

Duration: 1 hour

Our exploration continues with a leisurely stroll through Arashiyama town, following the gentle flow of the Hozu River. This segment of our tour offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty and cultural immersion, with recommendations for the best local shopping and dining experiences. Whether you're keen on exploring Kyoto's culinary delights or simply soaking in the ambiance, this part of the tour is tailored to your preferences.

Ryoanji

Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour

Discover the tranquility and minimalist beauty of Ryoanji, home to the world's oldest Zen rock garden. This peaceful haven invites contemplation and admiration, offering a deeper understanding of Zen Buddhism's influence on Japanese culture and aesthetics.

Gion District

Duration: 15 minutes

A brief visit to the historic Gion district reveals the charm of old Kyoto, with its traditional storefronts and picturesque stream. This quick stop is a glimpse into the geisha culture and the enduring legacy of Kyoto's entertainment districts.

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Duration: 1 hour

Conclude your journey with a visit to the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates. We venture beyond the usual paths to explore less crowded routes, enriching your experience with fascinating stories and insights into one of Kyoto's most revered sites.