Private Kyoto Tour with a Local, Highlights & Hidden Gems, Personalised

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  • Duration: 3 to 8 hours (approx.)
  • Location: Kyoto, Japan
  • Product code: 30791P164
From USD $120.83
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Adult (Age : 13 to 99)
Child (Age : 4 to 12)
Infant (Age : 1 to 3)
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Itinerary
This is a typical itinerary for this product

Pass By: Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, 68 Fukakusa Yabunouchicho, Fushimi-ku, Kyoto 612-0882 Kyoto Prefecture

Ready for a morning hiking upon Kyoto’s hills?  The famous thousands of vermilion torii gates path stretches from behind the shrine’s grounds into the wooded forest of the sacred Mount Inari (233 meters). But don’t worry, the view from half-way is as just as spectacular. How many fox’s statues will you be able to spot? They are the shrine guardians acting on behalf of Inari, the god connected to rice and sake.

IMPORTANT: As this is a private and personalized experience, the places you visit may differ from those listed and these will be chosen by your host based on your interests and preferences

Pass By: Sannenzaka Ninenzaka, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto 605-0001 Kyoto Prefecture

It’s a great traditional place where the narrow lanes, wooden buildings and traditional merchant shops invoke a feeling of the old capital city. The streets in Higashiyama are lined by small shops, cafes and restaurants to Kyoto specialties. Looking for some traditional souvenirs? You’ll find plenty of shops selling pottery, sweets, crafts and more.

IMPORTANT: As this is a private and personalized experience, the places you visit may differ from those listed and these will be chosen by your host based on your interests and preferences

Pass By: Kiyomizu-dera Temple, 1-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto 605-0862 Kyoto Prefecture

One of the most celebrated temples of Japan, Kiyomizudera is best known for its massive wooden stage, and the beautiful view on the autumn foliage (mid November-early December). Make sure to pay a visit to the nearby Otowa Waterfall: divided into three separate streams, each of them is said to have a different benefit: longevity, success at school and a fortunate love life. Which one would you pick?

IMPORTANT: As this is a private and personalized experience, the places you visit may differ from those listed and these will be chosen by your host based on your interests and preferences


Pass By: Kennin-ji Temple, 584 Yamatooji Yojo-sagaru Komatsucho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto 605-0933 Kyoto Prefecture

Oldest Zen temple in Kyoto, one of the highlights being a gilded folding screen adorned with the most famous images of the the wind and thunder gods. Not to miss the impressive twin dragons painted on the ceiling of the Dharma Hall.

IMPORTANT: As this is a private and personalised experience, the places you visit may differ from those listed and these will be chosen by your host based on your interests and preferences

Pass By: Yasaka Shrine, 625 Giommachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto 605-0073 Kyoto Prefecture

Founded over 1350 years ago, Yasaka is the guardian shrine of the Gion entertainment district in Kyoto.
It is well known for its summer festival, the Gion Matsuri (July), arguably the most famous festival in the whole country.

IMPORTANT: As this is a private and personalized experience, the places you visit may differ from those listed and these will be chosen by your host based on your interests and preferences

Pass By: Maruyama Park, 473 Maruyamacho, Higashiyama-Ku, Kyoto 605-0071 Kyoto Prefecture

Kyoto’s most popular park for cherry blossoms (end of March-first half of April).
The perfect place to take a small break after all the morning walking.

IMPORTANT: As this is a private and personalized experience, the places you visit may differ from those listed and these will be chosen by your host based on your interests and preferences

Pass By: Gion, Kyoto 605-0074 Kyoto Prefecture

Kyoto’s most famous Geisha’s district (however, if you spot them, please act respectfully). 
Make sure to pay a visit to Hanami-koji street and then cross Tatsumi Bridge to reach Shimbashi, the most picturesque part Gion, with elegant traditional wooden houses of Kyoto housing high-class restaurants, cafes, and tea-houses.

IMPORTANT: As this is a private and personalized experience, the places you visit may differ from those listed and these will be chosen by your host based on your interests and preferences

Pass By: Pontocho District, Nakagyo-Ku BetweenKamogawa and Kiyamachi-dori, Kyoto Kyoto Prefecture

Pontocho Alley is considered to be the most beautiful street in Kyoto. It’s lined with traditional shops and restaurants, and no cars, modern buildings or gaudy signs are allowed. At dusk, with the red lanterns lining down the narrow street, Pontocho becomes a magical place. And, if you are lucky, you may have the chance of spotting a maiko (apprentice geisha).  

IMPORTANT: As this is a private and personalized experience, the places you visit may differ from those listed and these will be chosen by your host based on your interests and preferences

Pass By: Kiyamachi Street, Ishiyacho Zaimokucho, Nakagyo-Ku, Kyoto 604-8002 Kyoto Prefecture

Lined with restaurants, cafes, and bars, this is a great place to have a drink before heading back to your hotel.

IMPORTANT: As this is a private and personalized experience, the places you visit may differ from those listed and these will be chosen by your host based on your interests and preferences


Inclusions

  • Private and personalized walking tour with a passionate local
  • 3, 5, 7 or 8 hours walking tour, exploring highlights and hidden gems
  • Hotel meet-up (available on request for central location)

Exclusions

  • Food and drinks
  • Transportation (primarily a walking experience however public transport may be used)
  • Tickets to any attractions
  • Gratuities (optional)

Schedule Details

Departure Dates:

See Availability.

Departure Point:

Starbucks Coffee - Kyoto Sanjo-ohashi Bridge, Japan, 604-8004 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Nakajimachō, 113 近江屋ビル 1F

Duration

3 to 8 hours(approx.)

Return details

Returns to original departure point

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Additional Information

Not wheelchair accessible

Stroller accessible

Service animals allowed

Near public transportation

Most travelers can participate

Please book at least 48 hours in advance so that we can build the best experience for you

Experiences are fully personalized so any additional requirements like tickets, transportation and food & drinks can be arranged for an additional cost

Private groups are normally no larger than 6 people (if your group is larger, please make this known so that arrangements can be made)

This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate

Confirmation will be received at time of booking

Posted By : camillecQ2599RF
Our tour with Alex was perfect. We are so grateful for our time with Alex, and that he crafted such a unique day for us. He was extremely personable, kind, and thoughtful during and after the tour.
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Posted On : 2024-05-14


Posted By : V7312HQjasminen
My sister and I had such a great experience with our guide Masaya! He was extremely knowledgeable abd we learnt so many things that we didn't know about Kyoto, Samurai, Gion District, Tea ceremony and much much more! We also had a gorgeous traditional meal but make sure you let them know in advance so you don't miss out!
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Posted On : 2024-05-14


Posted By : Inga_Z
Kenya was an excellent guide, very informative, knowledgeable, professional, courteous and patient! He provided us with an unforgettable experience of Kyoto, well planned and comprehensive, filled with interesting facts and insights. Kenya also was very patient in helping us to plan our next trips, gave us tips and ideas that helped us to make the most of our time here. We really enjoyed our time together and would highly recommend Kenya to our friends and family!
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Posted On : 2024-05-13


Posted By : 245biancaw
We did a private tour with guide Afifa. She was very knowledgeable, accommodating and friendly. We highly recommend booking this tour.
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Posted On : 2024-05-13


Posted By : Jessica_G
Great guide! Good food! Viator is making me type 100 characters minimum, but I pretty much summed it up.
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Posted On : 2024-05-12


Posted By : Winley G
Our tour guide Alex was absolutely incredible! His warmth and friendliness made the experience unforgettable. Not only were he’s incredibly knowledgeable about the history and significance of the places we visited, but he also went the extra mile to ensure we had a truly enriching experience. Plus, his photography skills were top-notch, capturing every moment beautifully. I can’t recommend him highly enough for anyone looking for a tour guide who truly cares about making every moment special.
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Posted On : 2024-05-12


Posted By : connorb870
Ryuki was an incredible tour guide. English was excellent, had great energy, had vast knowledge of Kyoto as well as the best stops for food! He worked with us on several different itinerary options in which we could choose from. Would highly recommend.
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Posted On : 2024-05-12


Posted By : 444gpm
Worked out perfectly. Felt like we had a family member showing us around. Tailored to our needs. The guide Chai was very sweet and knowledgeable. She went out of the way to make our tour memorable. Two thumbs up 👍 👍 for her!
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Posted On : 2024-05-11


Posted By : filipe_v
Visiting the beautiful shrines and temples, wandering through the streets and a delicious Tempura lunch in a small, charming family restaurant.
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Posted On : 2024-05-11


Posted By : Trail30628364231
Nice trip around different parts of Kyoto. Too many temples and shrines to mention them all. Alex is very knowledgeable and has a very good sense of humour
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Posted On : 2024-05-11