Kyoto, the former imperial capital of Japan, is renowned for its captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. A private car tour through the city’s highlights promises an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the rich heritage that has shaped this enchanting destination. From the iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites to the serene Zen gardens, this guided journey offers a glimpse into Kyoto’s timeless allure. What wonders await as you embark on this captivating exploration?
Key Points

- This 6-hour private car tour in Kyoto covers the top attractions, including Kiyomizu-dera, Ginkaku-ji, Kinkaku-ji, and Tenryu-ji.
- The tour is priced at $490.64 per group of up to 6 people and includes an air-conditioned vehicle, licensed guide, parking fees, gratuities, and admission fees.
- Travelers can select their preferred starting location, with the guide-driver meeting them and handling all logistics for a relaxed sightseeing experience.
- The tour is stroller-friendly and allows service animals, though it is not wheelchair accessible.
- Key highlights include the UNESCO-listed Kiyomizu-dera, the iconic Silver Pavilion (Ginkaku-ji), the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), and the expansive Tenryu-ji temple complex.
Tour Overview
This private car tour in Kyoto, Japan, offers a comprehensive 6-hour experience for visitors.
Priced from $490.64 per group (up to 6 people), the tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, a licensed or certified in-person guide, parking fees, gratuities, and admission fees to top Kyoto attractions like Kiyomizu-dera, Ginkaku-ji, Kinkaku-ji, and Tenryu-ji.
Customers can choose their preferred starting location, and the guide-driver will hold a sign with their name.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and allows service animals.
Infants must sit on laps, and children aged 3 to under 11 require a child seat.
Want to keep it personal? More private experiences we love in Kyoto
Inclusions

The private car tour in Kyoto includes an air-conditioned vehicle to ensure a comfortable journey.
A licensed or certified in-person guide accompanies the group, providing insights and information throughout the tour.
The tour also covers parking fees and gratuities, so there are no unexpected costs.
Admission fees are included for popular attractions like:
- Kiyomizu-dera (Adults ¥400, Children ¥200)
- Ginkaku-ji (Adults ¥500, Children ¥300)
- Kinkaku-ji (Adults ¥500, Children ¥300)
- Tenryu-ji (Adults ¥500, Children ¥300)
Plus, the tour includes a lunch to fuel the day’s adventures.
Pickup Details

Travelers can choose their preferred starting location, such as their hotel or Kyoto Station, for the tour.
The guide-driver will meet them while holding a sign with their name. Vehicle details, such as the type and size, are provided upon reservation. This allows travelers to plan their day and ensure the transportation meets their needs.
The pickup service makes it convenient for travelers to begin their Kyoto sightseeing experience without the hassle of navigating to a central meeting point.
With the guide-driver handling the logistics, travelers can sit back and enjoy the journey ahead.
Accessibility and Participation

The Kyoto Private Car Tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed, and service animals are welcomed.
Most travelers can participate, though infants must sit on laps, and children aged 3 to under 11 require a child seat.
The tour is near public transportation, making it accessible for a wide range of visitors.
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
- Service animals allowed
The tour’s accessibility features and participation requirements ensure a comfortable and inclusive experience for guests of varying needs and abilities.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Kiyomizu-dera Temple, one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks, stands atop a hillside overlooking the city. This UNESCO World Heritage site dates back to the early 600s and is renowned for its massive wooden terrace, which juts out from the mountainside.
Visitors can enjoy panoramic vistas of Kyoto from the terrace’s viewpoint. The temple’s main draw is its revered main hall, which is supported by over 1,000 wooden pillars.
Guests can also explore the temple’s pagodas, shrines, and tea houses. Admission fees are ¥400 for adults and ¥200 for children, which are included in the tour price.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Kyoto
Ginkaku-ji Temple
Next on the itinerary is the serene Ginkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Silver Pavilion.
This Zen temple features a striking silver-covered pavilion set amidst a beautiful garden. Visitors can explore:
- The exquisite Silver Pavilion, a Muromachi-period architectural masterpiece
- Carefully raked sand gardens that represent the moon and mountains
- Moss-covered paths winding through the peaceful grounds
Ginkaku-ji provides a tranquil respite from the bustling city.
Guests can enjoy Zen contemplation while admiring the temple’s refined elegance and harmonious natural surroundings.
Kinkaku-ji Temple and Tenryu-ji Temple
After exploring the serenity of Ginkaku-ji, the tour continues to two of Kyoto’s most iconic temples – Kinkaku-ji and Tenryu-ji.
Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a Zen temple with a pavilion covered in gold leaf, reflecting beautifully in the pond. Visitors can wander the temple grounds and admire the exquisite architecture.
Next, the tour visits Tenryu-ji, one of the most important Zen temples in Kyoto. Guests can explore the expansive temple complex, including the grand main hall and the stunning Sogenchi garden with its iconic views of Arashiyama and the Katsura River.
The Sum Up

This private car tour of Kyoto’s iconic landmarks offers an immersive experience of the city’s rich history and culture. Visitors will marvel at the UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the stunning Kinkaku-ji, Ginkaku-ji, and Kiyomizu-dera. With a licensed guide and comfortable transportation, the tour promises an unforgettable journey through Kyoto’s enchanting beauty.
More Private Tours in Kyoto
- Private Sushi Cooking Class and Tea Ceremony in Kyoto With Emika
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Day Trip From Kyoto With a Local: Private & Personalized
- Private Kyoto Tour for Families With a Local, 100% Personalized
- Full Day Private Walking Day Tour in Kyoto With Tea
- Zen Meditation With Private Monk
- Private Day Tour of the Temples of Kyoto
More Tours in Kyoto
More Tour Reviews in Kyoto
- Tour by Car With a Kyoto Native Away off Touristy|A Local Show You Secret Places
- Osaka or Kyoto Private Day Tour With English Driver Free Pickup
- Kyoto Millennium Shogun E-Bike Cycling Tour (East Course)
- Pedal Adventure Kyoto E-Bike Tour : True Kyoto Avoid the Crowds
- Authentic Kyoto Cuisine Tour With a Local Guide
- Private Guided Local Bar Crawl Experience in Kyoto
Not for you? Here's more things to do in Kyoto we have recnetly reviewed
- Tea Ceremony & Zen Meditation in Kyoto Samurai House(Mixed Group)
- Gion a Half Day Food Tour Designed for You With a Local Guide
- Matcha Making Experience in Kyoto
- F1 Japanese Grand Prix JR Chartered Train Departing From Kyoto
- Skip the Lines Basic Ticket at SAMURAI NINJA MUSEUM KYOTO
- Photo Shoot With a Private Vacation Photographer in KYOTO, JAPAN
- Kamo River’s Timeless Tales: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Kyoto
- The Beauty of Kyoto – Historical Walking Tour of Higashiyama Area
- Japanese Cooking Class
- Arashiyama Bamboo & Must See Gardens With an Amazing Guide
- Kyoto-The City of the Dreams!
- Kyoto Custom Highlight: Private Walking Tour With Licensed Guide
