• Kinkakuji Temple - Also known as the Golden Pavilion, Kinkakuji Temple is a must-visit in Kyoto. Situated in the northern part of the city, it is easily reachable by car, although the public bus takes about an hour from central Kyoto.

The temple’s highlight is the magnificent golden pavilion that glistens in the sunlight, surrounded by a serene pond and beautifully maintained gardens. The pavilion exemplifies the traditional Japanese Zen style, which focuses on simplicity and natural beauty despite its vibrant color. Visitors will be accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide who will share insights about Zen Buddhism and its impact on Japanese culture. (30 min. Transfer Time - 30 min. Walk Around)

• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove - Stroll through the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and immerse yourself in the sounds of Japan! The guide will discuss the origins of Japanese bamboo and its connection to Edison’s invention of the light bulb.

• Gio-ji Temple - Located in Arashiyama, this small temple encapsulates authentic Japanese scenery. The tranquil Japanese garden, covered in moss, and the modest thatched hut surrounded by a bamboo grove and maple trees, create a setting that visitors find enchanting. The guide will share the story of its origin, including the tragic love tale of “Gio” from Japanese history.

• Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple - Nestled in the well-preserved “old-Kyoto-view” area in the northern part of the Arashiyama historical district, this small temple is less crowded than the main Arashiyama area due to its distance from the station. It offers a stunning view of countless Buddha statues. The guide will provide insights into its unique history and basic information about Japanese funeral traditions. (10 min Transfer Time + 30 min Walk Around)

• Arashiyama-Takao Parkway - The Arashiyama-Takao Parkway is a tourist toll road starting from north Arashiyama. In April, it is adorned with 2,000 cherry blossom trees, and in November, with maple trees. The breathtaking mountains and the Hozu Gorge offer a glimpse into the nature revered by the Japanese since ancient times.

• Kitayama Big Daisugi - Secret spot! “Kitayama Giant Platform Cedar Trees” This area is located in the far northern part of Arashiyama, hidden by a narrow cliff road that few dare to traverse. However, the view becomes extraordinary with uniquely shaped trees, featuring many slender and straight Japanese cedar trees emerging from single giant platforms. These 200-300-year-old bonsai cedars are cultivated by local farmers over generations, showcasing the harmony of art and nature. This area is renowned for the world’s oldest timber factory, which continues to supply sacred wood for imperial buildings. Although often featured on Instagram and other media, few have actually visited it! A true adventure for explorers!

• Nakagawa-hachimangū Shrine - “Nakagawa Hachiman Shrine” is a local shrine built as a guardian of the area, home to the oldest Japanese Cedar tree in the region, revered as a lord. Touch the tree to receive the spirit’s power.

• Heian Jingu Shrine Otorii - The largest torii gate (red shrine gate) in Kyoto, constructed for the Heian Jingu Imperial Shrine. Standing at 24.4 meters (80 feet), it is one of the largest torii gates in Japan.

• Hanamikoji Street - Experience the 600-year-old street known for Geishas by car! Avoid the crowds and capture photos from the vehicle. (Photographing Geishas requires their permission)

• Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine - Fushimi-Inari Shrine is Kyoto’s most popular and iconic tourist attraction, renowned for its “SenbonTorii” path (thousands of gates, now numbering over 10,000), cherished by Japanese people since 711 A.C. As you pass through the giant gates, which gradually become smaller, it is believed that your ego diminishes, fostering a sense of unity with nature as you return to the main shrine. Along the way, in the deeply spiritual atmosphere, you will encounter many unique objects and small shrines, all introduced by the guide. (60 min Transfer Time + 70 min Walk Around)

• Fuel and Toll Fees
• Pick-up and Dropping off at anywhere in Kyoto City
• Knowledgeable Guide with Fluent English
• Parking fees
• Comfortable Private Van

• Admission Fees (¥300~¥600 at each temples)

Explore Kyoto more deeply with a local Japanese guide, comfortably in a Japanese minivan!

•Visit the best but hidden temples without crowds: private bamboo forest, the best moss garden in Kyoto, Fushimi-Inari Shrine after sunset

•Drive farther to mountains by car, enjoy the unique nature of Japan with stunning views from the mountains and secret bonzai areas in deeper Kyoto

The experienced guide will also take you the best seasonal spots for each seasons, like the best cherryblossom shrines, maple-leaf covered temples or even temples becomes more beautiful on a rainy day

Each spots will be guided with explainations in fluent English, by a friendly local Japanese guide with deep knowledge about Japanese culture, religion and history

This is a private tour, so you can customize the tour flexibly to cover what you missed or omit what you already visited (eg. include Gion area or Nishiki Market)

Book this tour now for an unforgettable experience and have a perfect day in Kyoto!

• Some temples need walks and walking up stairs to visit

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