Explore Kyoto's Wonders: Arashiyama & Fushimi Inari Day Trip from Osaka

Embark on a delightful journey from Osaka to Kyoto, where the wonders of ancient Japan come alive in a single day. Our private car tour whisks you away to the enchanting realms of Kyoto, featuring a curated selection of must-see spots. Picture yourself wandering through the scenic beauty of Arashiyama, exploring the historic streets of Gion, and marveling at the mystical Fushimi Inari Shrine with its captivating trail of vermillion gates. This tour is your gateway to experiencing the essence of Kyoto, from the serene Tenryuji Temple with its lush gardens to the mesmerizing pathways of Okochi Sanso and the vibrant heart of Gion.

Perfect for travelers planning to explore both Osaka and Kyoto, our tour offers the convenience of starting in one city and finishing in the other. This means you can easily move between cities without the burden of carrying your luggage or the stress of hotel transfers. Join us for an unforgettable journey through Kyoto's iconic landmarks, where tradition meets tranquility, and every turn reveals a new story.

Tour Highlights

• Private car journey from Osaka to Kyoto

• Visit to the scenic Arashiyama district

• Exploration of the historic Gion area

• Walk through the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine's red gates

• Serene experience at Tenryuji Temple and its gardens

• Peek into the lush pathways of Okochi Sanso

• Flexible start and end locations for easy city transitions

• Personalized experience with hotel pickup and drop-off

What’s Covered

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off service

• All transportation costs during the tour

• Fees for your tour guide

What’s Extra

• Food and drinks

• Entry fees (about 1500 yen/adult)

• Extra pick-up fee outside central Osaka/Shin Osaka (2500 yen)

Tour Itinerary

Tenryu-ji Temple

Begin your Kyoto adventure with a visit to Tenryu-ji, where history and tranquility meet. Explore the majestic temple and its stunning gardens, then wander through the adjacent famous bamboo grove. This serene start sets the perfect tone for the day.

Duration: About 1 hour

Okochi Sanso Villa

Next, we explore Okochi Sanso, the breathtaking estate of a renowned early 20th-century actor. Wander through beautifully maintained grounds and historic buildings, pausing for a peaceful tea break amidst the scenery.

Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour

Lunch and Arashiyama Town

Enjoy a leisurely 15-minute walk to the heart of Arashiyama, guided by the charming Hozu River. We'll recommend our favorite spots for lunch and shopping in town. If shopping isn't your thing, we can skip straight to more sightseeing.

Duration: About 90 minutes

Gion District

Experience the historic charm of Gion, known for its old shops and the picturesque stream that flows through it. This brief stop is a window into Kyoto's storied past.

Duration: About 15 minutes

Fushimi Inari Shrine

A highlight of the tour, Fushimi Inari Shrine is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates. We'll explore beyond the usual paths, sharing stories and insights to deepen your experience of this iconic site.

Duration: About 75 minutes

Additional 2 hours (Optional)

For those wanting even more from their Kyoto experience, consider extending your tour by two hours. This option allows for a deeper exploration of Kyoto's wonders. 

Essentials to Know Before Booking

• Comfortable footwear recommended; itinerary adjustments possible for less walking.

• Dress for Kyoto's variable weather; personal items can be secured in the vehicle.

• Itinerary is flexible; subject to change based on preferences and conditions.

• Port of Osaka pickups: 5,000 yen group surcharge for round-trip.

• Tours last 8 or 10 hours, suitable for private groups up to 9 passengers.

Meeting Point

Let us know your accommodation location within central Osaka, and we'll meet you there to start your adventure. For those requiring pickup from the Port of Osaka, please note there's an additional 5,000 yen charge for the round-trip service for your group.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the tour include?

The tour includes private vehicle transportation from Osaka to Kyoto and back, services of a professional guide, and hotel pickup and drop-off within central Osaka. Note that meals, entrance fees to attractions, and pickups outside central Osaka incur additional costs.

How long is the tour?

You can choose between an 8-hour or a 10-hour tour. The extended option allows for a more relaxed pace and the opportunity to explore additional sites.

What should I wear?

Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as the tour involves a fair amount of walking. Dress according to the season, keeping in mind that Kyoto's weather can be slightly cooler in winter and warmer in summer compared to Osaka.

Can the tour accommodate dietary restrictions?

Yes, please inform us of any dietary restrictions in advance. While food and drinks are not included, we can recommend and adjust lunch stops to suit your dietary needs.

What are the additional costs I should expect?

Expect to pay for your meals, any personal purchases, and entrance fees to certain attractions. Entrance fees are approximately 1500 yen per adult, with concessions for children. If you're staying outside of central Osaka, a pickup surcharge may apply.

Are there any age restrictions for the tour?

No, our tour is suitable for all ages. However, please let us know if you have very young children or infants with you, so we can make the necessary arrangements for a comfortable tour experience.

Can the tour be customized for non-English speakers?

Yes, we can arrange for guides who speak languages other than English, subject to availability. Please request this when booking, so we can accommodate your needs to the best of our ability.

Related Read: The History of the Kyoto Golden Temple