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Private tour in Kyoto Ryan D
The Best of West to North Kyoto!
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8 hours
1
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8 hours
1
Ryan D.
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Hello, and welcome! I’m a Swiss-American born and raised in Japan, with a French–Irish father and a Swiss–Japanese mother — a true “walking United Nations.” I’ve been living in Kyoto for over 32 years, and at 37 years old, I still find new wonders in this city every day. For the past 12 years, I’ve worked in hospitality — from hotels and Airbnbs to guiding tours. Kyoto, Japan’s capital for over 1,100 years, is the nation’s cultural heart, home to more than 800 temples, 1,700 shrines, and 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites (the most in the world!). Here, history, Zen, and beauty come together in a way unlike anywhere else. On my tours, I love blending the must-see highlights with hidden gems off the beaten path. I share Kyoto’s stories with plenty of history and insight, but always in a light, conversational way — so it feels more like exploring the city with a local friend than attending a school lecture. And because Kyoto has so many incredible things to experience, I can also customize tours to fit your interests. Want to spend a whole day exploring Zen gardens? Prefer peaceful spots away from the crowds? More excited about food, or shopping, than temples? Whatever your style, I’ll craft a tour designed just for you — so you can enjoy Kyoto in the way that’s most meaningful to you. Join me, and let’s discover the magic of Kyoto together!
Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Ryan D.
From World Heritage temples to hidden gems - discover the timeless beauty of Japan in 8 unforgettable hours
Overview of your Kyoto tour
Discover the best of Kyoto on this one-day private tour, blending history, culture, Zen, and art — led by a Kyoto-born American guide. On this tour, you’ll experience: ▪️ 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites — the must-sees of Kyoto ▪️ Beautiful scenery — Japanese gardens and natural landscapes ▪️ Hidden gems — secret spots yet to be discovered by the crowds ▪️ Visiting some gallery shops — art, pottery, and Japanese antiques ＊Some of the sites we’ll visit require admission fees. If we visit all the locations listed on the itinerary, the total cost will be ¥3,000 per person, or ¥1,700 for children under 15. “I kindly ask that the guide’s ticket/admission fee be covered by the group.”
Your Kyoto tour itinerary
Your Kyoto tour itinerary 📍 Meet & Greet Meet at the agreed location (Kyoto station or your Hotel Lobby). 🌉 Togetsu Bridge Cross the iconic bridge for stunning views. 🏯 Tenryuji = Sky dragon temple World heritage temple with a beautiful Japanese garden. Tickets required 🌿 Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Wander through the enchanting bamboo groves. 🍽️ Lunch Break Enjoy a local meal. 🐉 Ryoanji = Peaceful dragon temple World heritage temple with the words most famous Zen garden. Tickets required ⚜️Kinkakuji = Golden pavilion World Heritage site. One of Kyoto’s most iconic location! Tickets required 🪴Bonsai garden A hidden gem almost unknown to tourists housing miniature trees aging between 30-800years. Tickets required 🤫 Zuihoin A hidden gem small temple with a secret hidden in its history and garden. Tickets required 🎨Visiting art and antique galleries Charming privately owned galleries of art, pottery, and antiques. 🏁 End of Tour Conclude at the gallery or your preferred location.
Want to customize this tour?
Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.
Transport details
Type: Public Transportation / Category: Taxi
Once we arrive at each destination, we’ll explore on foot. To travel between locations, we’ll be taking taxis. The cost is about ¥2,000–¥3,000 per ride. Each taxi can accommodate up to four passengers, so we’ll use one to three taxis depending on the group size. If you prefer, I can arrange a rental car instead—it would save some time and allow everyone to ride together. Please let me know if you’d like me to make this arrangement.
What's included
What's not included
Meeting location
Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan
Starbucks Coffee - Kyoto Tower Sando (https://maps.app.goo.gl/FkqPDorJjA8xzYeG6) Or at your hotel lobby located in the city center
- You can request a different meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout process.
Other details
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Languages
English
JapaneseActivity level
Frequently asked questions
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8 hours
1
Tour date
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8 hours
1
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Book with a deposit
If your tour is valued over $200 USD and booked at least 45 days before the tour date, you can book with a deposit!
How it works
- Your credit card will be authorized only for the deposit amount.
- Funds will not be withdrawn until your tour booking is fully processed.
- 30 days before your tour date, the remaining balance is automatically charged.