10 Must-see Spots in Kyoto One Day Private Tour

This private one-day tour is perfect for those who want to see Kyoto’s top 10 must-visit spots in a short time. With a local guide, you will explore famous sites like Fushimi Inari Shrine with its red torii gates, the Golden Pavilion, Kiyomizu Temple, the Bamboo Forest, and the historic Geisha district. The tour is designed for convenience, using a mix of walking, public transport, and taxis to save time and energy.

Your guide will lead you through well-known attractions, quiet back streets, and scenic paths known only to locals. Taxis are used occasionally to make travel easier, allowing you to visit all key locations without rushing. This tour is a great way to experience Kyoto’s beauty, culture, and history in just one day.

What’s Covered

• Professional English-speaking guide

• Free for infants under 2 years old

What’s Extra

• Same price for children over 3 as adults

• Taxi fare (approx. 6000–8000 yen per cab for all rides)

• Public transport fee (about 1000 yen per person)

• Entry fees (around 1500 yen per person for all temples)

• No pick-up service included

Good to Know

• This tour is not wheelchair accessible and not suitable for pets.

• Infants must have their own seats, as lap seating is not allowed. Infant seats are not available.

• Not recommended for individuals with back problems.

• The itinerary, lunch location, and starting point cannot be changed as multiple sites are visited in one day.

• If you have dietary restrictions, please inform us at the time of booking.

• The tour includes both famous attractions and traditional streets, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

• Many temples and taxis in Kyoto do not accept credit cards. Please carry Japanese yen for payments.

• On extremely hot summer days, an alternative route with fewer steps is recommended, including visits to Chishakuin Temple and Sanjusangendo Temple.

• Each taxi accommodates up to three guests plus the guide. Groups of four require two taxis.

Tour Itinerary

Meeting Point

Kita-Oji Station (Kyoto City Subway Karasuma Line, Station No. K04)

Your guide will meet you at the south ticket gate of Kita-Oji Station. This is the starting point for your journey through Kyoto’s most iconic attractions.

Address: 〒6038142 JP Kyoto Koyamakitakamifusacho, Kita Ward, Kyoto

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Visit the famous Golden Pavilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a former political center of the Shogun. Admire its stunning gold leaf exterior reflecting over the surrounding pond, creating a breathtaking view.

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Walk through the enchanting Bamboo Forest, one of Kyoto’s most famous sights. The towering bamboo stalks create a magical atmosphere, making it a perfect photo spot.

Tenryu-ji Temple

Explore Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO-listed Zen temple with a beautifully designed pond garden. This landscape, created by one of Japan’s greatest garden masters, perfectly harmonizes with nature.

Togetsu-kyo Bridge

Visit the famous Togetsu-kyo Bridge, a landmark of the Arashiyama district. This wooden bridge, surrounded by seasonal landscapes, offers a scenic view of Kyoto’s natural beauty.

Kimono Forest

Stroll through the Kimono Forest, an artistic display of 600 cylindrical poles wrapped in colorful kimono fabric. This vibrant area is a popular Instagram spot.

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Experience the breathtaking Fushimi Inari Shrine, home to the iconic thousand torii gates. This sacred site, dedicated to the god of business, has been ranked Japan’s top attraction multiple times.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Visit the famous Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its large wooden balcony. Enjoy a panoramic view of Kyoto from this historic temple.

Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka Slopes

Wander through the charming Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka Slopes, lined with traditional wooden buildings and souvenir shops. This is the perfect place to find gifts for loved ones.

Yasaka Pagoda (Five-Story Pagoda)

Stop by the Five-Story Pagoda, one of Kyoto’s most recognizable landmarks. While entry is not included, it makes for an excellent photo opportunity.

Gion Geisha District

End the tour in the Gion District, Kyoto’s famous Geisha neighborhood. Walk through historic alleys lined with tea houses where Maiko (apprentice Geisha) and Geiko entertain guests.

Related Read: The History of the Kyoto Golden Temple