Kyoto & Nara Discovery Ancient Culture & Hidden Gems

Discover Kyoto’s iconic temples, shrines, markets, and historic streets with a friendly English Speaking Driver for a comfortable and memorable private tour.
Begin your journey at the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, one of Kyoto’s most famous natural and cultural attractions. Walk through the path as the bamboo rises high above you, creating a peaceful atmosphere with sunlight filtering through the leaves.

Next, visit Kinkaku-ji, officially known as Rokuon-ji, one of Kyoto’s most famous Zen Buddhist temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the Golden Pavilion, originally built in 1397 as the retirement villa of Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, the third shogun of the Ashikaga shogunate.

Continue to Gion, Kyoto’s most famous traditional entertainment and cultural district, located near Yasaka Shrine. Walk along the narrow streets lined with traditional wooden machiya buildings, giving you a strong impression of old Kyoto.

Then, head to Fushimi Inari Taisha, one of the most famous Shinto shrines in Japan and the head shrine of thousands of Inari shrines throughout the country. Walk through the Senbon Torii, or “Thousands of Torii Gates,” where countless bright vermilion gates form tunnels along the mountain path.

Next, visit Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, a unique Buddhist temple in the northern part of Arashiyama, famous for its approximately 1,200 stone Rakan statues. Search for statues that resemble yourself, family members, or friends.

Finally, explore Sanjusangendo, officially known as Rengeo-in, one of Kyoto’s most impressive Buddhist temples. Admire the hall containing 1,001 statues of Kannon, the Buddhist bodhisattva associated with compassion.

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.