• Arashiyama - TOGETSUKYO BRIDGE Arashiyama’s most iconic landmark is the Togetsukyo Bridge, also known as the “Moon Crossing Bridge.” It was last reconstructed in the 1930s, having originally been built during the Heian Period (794–1185). The bridge is particularly beautiful against the backdrop of the forested slope. Nearby, a riverbank park is adorned with numerous cherry trees. BAMBOO GROVES Enjoyable walks and bike rides can be taken along the paths that wind through the bamboo groves. When a gentle breeze sways the tall bamboo stalks, the scenery becomes quite picturesque. For generations, bamboo has been used in local workshops to craft various items, such as mats, cups, boxes, and baskets.

• Ginkakuji Temple - Ginkakuji, or the Silver Pavilion, is a Zen temple located in Kyoto’s eastern mountains, Higashiyama. In 1482, shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa constructed his retirement villa on the site of today’s temple, inspired by Kinkakuji, the Golden Pavilion, his grandfather’s retirement villa at the base of Kyoto’s northern mountains, Kitayama. After Yoshimasa’s death in 1490, the villa was transformed into a Zen temple. As the retirement villa of an art-loving shogun, Ginkakuji became a hub of new culture, known as the Higashiyama Culture, contrasting with the Kitayama Culture of his grandfather’s era. Unlike the Kitayama Culture, which remained confined to Kyoto’s noble circles, the Higashiyama Culture had a broad impact across the nation. The arts developed and refined during this period include the tea ceremony, flower arrangement, noh theater, poetry, garden design, and architecture.

• Kinkakuji Temple - Kinkaku-ji, or the Golden Pavilion, was initially constructed in 1397 as a retirement villa for shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. Following his death, the villa was converted into a Zen Buddhist temple. The structure showcases a blend of traditional Japanese and Chinese architectural styles. Although the original building was destroyed by arson in 1950, it was rebuilt in 1955, with the top two floors covered in gold leaf, symbolizing purity and enlightenment.

• Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine - Fushimi Inari Taisha is one of Kyoto’s most iconic Shinto shrines, dedicated to Inari, the deity of rice, prosperity, and business. Established in 711 AD, it is renowned for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates (senbon torii) that form tunnels along the trails leading up Mount Inari. These gates, donated by individuals and businesses, symbolize gratitude and prayers for success. The shrine is also famous for its fox statues, believed to be Inari’s messengers. Visitors often hike the path up the mountain, which offers scenic views of Kyoto along the way.

• Nishiki Market Shopping District - Nishiki Market (Nishiki Ichiba) is a narrow, five-block-long shopping street lined with over one hundred shops and restaurants. Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” this bustling market specializes in all things food-related, such as fresh seafood, produce, knives, and cookware, and is an excellent place to find seasonal foods and Kyoto specialties, including Japanese sweets, pickles, dried seafood, and sushi. Nishiki Market has a lively yet welcoming atmosphere that invites exploration of the diverse culinary delights for which Kyoto is famous. The shops throughout the market range in size from small, narrow stalls to larger, two-story establishments. Most specialize in a particular type of food, and nearly everything sold at the market is locally produced and sourced.

• Gion - Gion (祇園) is Kyoto’s most renowned geisha district, situated around Shijo Avenue between Yasaka Shrine in the east and the Kamo River in the west. It is filled with shops, restaurants, and ochaya (teahouses), where geiko (Kyoto dialect for geisha) and maiko (geiko apprentices) entertain.

• Kiyomizu-dera Temple - Kiyomizudera, meaning “Pure Water Temple,” is one of Japan’s most famous temples. It derives its name from the pristine waters of the Otowa Waterfall, located on the forested hillsides east of Kyoto, where it was founded in 780. Initially associated with the Hosso sect, one of the oldest schools of Japanese Buddhism, the temple established the Kita Hosso sect in 1965. In 1994, the temple was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The most remarkable feature of Kiyomizudera is its wooden stage, which extends 13 meters over the hillside from the main hall. Visitors can enjoy a delightful view of the numerous cherry and maple trees below, which burst into a sea of color from the stage.

• Pick-up and Drop-off to Hotel
• English-Speaking Driver
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Private transportation

• Food not included
• Admission tickets are not included. Travelers can purchase these directly at location.

Experience Kyoto in Comfort and Elegance!

Uncover the ageless charm of Kyoto with our exclusive, private day tour by car. Designed specifically for you, we craft a personalized itinerary that aligns with your interests, allowing you to explore Kyoto’s famous attractions at your leisure. In just one day, visit celebrated sites such as Kinkaku-ji, Kiyomizu-dera, Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, and the serene bamboo grove of Arashiyama!

The itinerary is adaptable to your preferences.

Reserve our Private Kyoto Day Tour by Car with an English-speaking driver for an unforgettable, seamless adventure through Japan’s cultural epicenter!

• This experience includes an English-speaking driver
• Special rides, cruises, and admission tickets aren’t included and can be purchased directly at each location.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.