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Private tour in Kyoto Ryan D
The Best of Kyoto Arashiyama!
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4 hours
30 minutes
1
Tour date
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4 hours
30 minutes
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.
A 5-hour journey into Arashiyama’s history, culture, and breathtaking scenery.
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: ▪️ A UNESCO World Heritage temple — one of Kyoto’s must-see sites. ▪️ Beautiful scenery — Japanese gardens and natural landscapes. ▪️ Walk along the main road of Arashiyama — A lively street filled with gift shops, restaurants and snack stalls, matcha latte and coffee. ＊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 ¥1,500 per person, or ¥800 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. 🍁Oocochi sanso garden A scenic villa of a famous movie star of the 20th century. with beautiful gardens and panoramic views of Kyoto. Tickets required 🍵Main street of Arashiyama Enjoy shopping for gifts and snacks, have a coffee or a matcha latte or simply look around. 🏁 End of Tour Conclude on the main road of Arashiyama 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
Most of the tour will be on foot, but we’ll take a taxi to the first location. The fare is approximately ¥2,000–¥3,000. Each taxi can hold up to four passengers, so we’ll use one to three taxis depending on the size of the group.
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 specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
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Languages
English
JapaneseActivity level
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4 hours
30 minutes
1
Tour date
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4 hours
30 minutes
1
Tour date
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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.