Private tour in Kyoto Maha B

Visite privée d’une journée à Kyoto: incontournables & trésors cachés sous les cerisiers en fleur

-
Hours icon 6 hours 30 minutes
Public transportation
Private tour for 1-9 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 6 hours 30 minutes
Public transportation
Private tour for 1-9 people
Your party size

1

View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later

Maha B.

4.9

Guide rating

54

Reviews

Tours delivered

11 hrs

Avg. response time

Your time in Kyoto should be unforgettable, meaningful, and free of stress. My mission is to make that happen for you. Hello, welcome to Kyoto! I am Maha, an adventurer by nature. Growing up, I always wished to be an explorer, and that wish came true when I chose to settle in Kyoto in 2017 after living and traveling in many countries. Every day since then has been a discovery of hidden corners and serene spots. Kyoto (and Japan in general) continues to amaze me every single day. Becoming a local guide in 2018 was therefore a natural step for me. Nothing gives me greater pleasure than sharing Kyoto's history and stories. My standard tours, designed primarily for first-time visitors, strike a balance between must-see landmarks and little-known treasures, creating authentic experiences beyond the “tourist bubble.” For more curious and adventurous souls, including those returning to Japan and seeking something different, I also offer tours focused on hidden gems and unique places. A storyteller at heart, I reveal the un-Googleable beauty of Kyoto and ensure that each journey is immersive, thoughtfully paced, and uniquely tailored to your interests and preferred rhythm. Cultural Storytelling Perspective As a Cultural Storytelling Specialist, I interpret Kyoto beyond its surface beauty. I bridge cultures naturally, connecting centuries of history to modern Japan through meaningful narratives and cultural insight. Living between different worlds allows me to observe both as an insider and an outsider. I connect the dots between rituals, architecture, social norms, psychology and everyday life offering fresh interpretations and perspectives. I have a keen eye for the unusual, the overlooked, and the quietly beautiful. I explore both the visible landmarks and the invisible traditions that shape Kyoto’s identity. For me, it is always about understanding the why behind things. In the end, my goal is simple: You leave with not just memories, but moments that stay with you perhaps even shifting your perspective long after your trip. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 🌸 🌸 🌸 Why Choose Me? - Traveler’s curiosity + local insight: I’ve lived in different countries such as France, the U.S., and Japan, so I understand what visitors seek, and I know Kyoto ( and Japan) my home since 2017. - Thoughtful itineraries: I design each tour by asking myself, “What would I have loved to discover on my very first visit?” or “If I had only one day in Kyoto, what would I want to experience?” - Stress-free travel: My tours include guiding services, transportation, entrance fees, and sometimes taxis, so you can simply relax and enjoy the day. - Storytelling + photography: I don’t just show you Kyoto, I capture the beauty and memories of your journey. With me, you’ll enjoy a smooth, tailored experience that blends iconic highlights with authentic hidden gems, guided by someone who truly loves and lives this city. ⚠️ With the rise of overtourism, I increasingly focus on hidden gems as they offer a more meaningful and authentic experience. I always adapt itineraries to ensure the best experience (for example, avoiding buses since mid 2024 ) and continuously seek out new spots that are truly worth visiting. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 📌 What’s Included To keep your experience stress-free, most tours include: • Guiding services • Public transportation • Entrance fees to attractions • Taxi rides (depending on the tour) This way, you’re free from handling logistics or carrying cash (most temples and attractions accept cash only, I’ll take care of it for you). _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 🎓 Background - Master’s in Finance, NEOMA Business School, France (Courses in Japanese culture and history) - Exchange program, Pace University, New York - MBA, Doshisha University, Kyoto (Focus on Japanese Culture, Art, History & Business) - Experience as a travel agent in Tokyo and Kuala Lumpur 📸 Photography I am a self-taught photographer with a passion for capturing moments that tell a story. Follow me on Instagram : @humansandtemples or on Tiktok: @humans.and.temples ✨ Important Please let me know in advance about: - Mobility limitations - Relevant physical conditions - Food allergies or dietary restrictions Guiding is a collaborative effort, and having this key information allows me to tailor the day with care, comfort, and safety in mind. A well-prepared guide makes for the most meaningful tour. 🚗 Note I am not a driver, but I can accompany you in your vehicle or arrange for a separate car and driver. ⛩️ ⛩️ ⛩️ Let’s create your unforgettable Kyoto story together.

Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Maha B.

Overview of your Kyoto tour

Partez à la découverte de Kyoto lors d’une visite privée d’une journée complète accompagnée d’un guide francophone (et multilingue). De la forêt de bambous d’Arashiyama au Pavillon d’Or (Kinkaku-ji), en passant par le sanctuaire Fushimi Inari, explorez les sites les plus emblématiques de Kyoto ainsi que des temples secrets connus seulement des habitants. Je vous ferai revivre plus de 1100 ans d’histoire à travers récits captivants, traditions ancestrales et anecdotes que vous ne trouverez dans aucun guide. Que vous soyez attiré par les jardins zen, les cerisiers en fleurs ou les ruelles paisibles, cette expérience vous révélera l’âme intemporelle de Kyoto. ✅ Tous les frais d’entrée et les transports en commun sont inclus, pour une journée fluide et sans souci. 📩 Pour une visite personnalisée de Kyoto, n’hésitez pas à me contacter. Mon emploi du temps évolue fréquemment , pensez à réserver à l’avance pour garantir votre place. ✨ Faisons de votre découverte de Kyoto un moment inoubliable !

Your Kyoto tour itinerary

🚩 Bureau central de poste de Kyoto Taxi + train | env. 6h30 (Taxi : env. 60 $ par véhicule, jusqu’à 5 personnes + guide) Option 1 : Départ matinal (8h00–10h00) Forêt de bambous d’Arashiyama → Rivière Katsura → Pont Togetsukyo → Otagi Nenbutsu-ji* → Rue Toriimoto → Adashino → Pause déjeuner → Pavillon d’Or → Temple secret → Fushimi Inari 🚩 Gare d’Inari Option 2 : Départ l’après-midi (à partir de 10h30- 14:00) Otagi Nenbutsu-ji* → Adashino → Forêt de bambous → Villa Ōkōchi Sansō → Rivière Katsura → Togetsukyo → Fushimi Inari → Gion & Higashiyama 🚩 Théâtre Minamiza Option 3 : Tour thématique (avant 10h00) Kyoto à l’époque Heian : Genji & Livre de l’Oreiller 🚩 7-Eleven Jingu-Marutamachi Palais impérial* → Shimogamo & forêt Tadasu-no-Mori → Sanctuaire Heian → Déjeuner → Jardin Shosei-en → Rokuharamitsu-ji 🚩 Théâtre Minamiza 📌 Otagi fermé mer./sam. (itinéraire adapté) 📌 Tour 100 % taxi possible (fin plus tôt) 📌 Cartes de transport récupérées 📌 Certaines zones du Palais impérial fermées le lundi

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: Train

Train +Taxi + Marche (Taxi : env. 60 $ par véhicule, jusqu’à 5 personnes + guide)

What's included
Private Guide
Tickets: Frais d’entrée inclus pour : Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, Adashino Nenbutsu-ji, le temple secret et le Pavillon d’Or (Kinkaku-ji).
Public Transportation
What's not included
Tickets: Autres que ceux mentionnés
Private Transportation
Private Transportation With Driver
Other: Les dépenses personnelles ne sont pas incluses. (Taxi : env. 60 $ par véhicule, jusqu’à 5 personnes + guide)
Food Drinks Snacks
Meeting location

Kyoto, Kyoto, 600-8799, Japan

Option 1 and 2: Kyoto Central Post Office next to Kyoto station 834-12 Higashishiokojicho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8799 https://share.google/XcwpqEDpjPRRBKgUE Option 3: セブン-イレブン 京都神宮丸太町店 4-2 Higashimarutacho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8395, Japan https://maps.app.goo.gl/9TS2j16uEyuMSkdD8

  • You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
History
Religious Sites
Art And Culture
Architecture
Nature Wildlife And Safaris
Tour reference number
1442491
Languages
French
Arabic
English
Japanese
Activity level
Moderate
Accessibility
Kid Friendly

FAQs

Who is this private tour in Kyoto best suited for?

This private tour in Kyoto is perfect for travellers who want to explore the city's iconic sites and hidden treasures with a knowledgeable local guide. It's ideal for those interested in history, culture, and nature, as you'll visit places like the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), and Fushimi Inari Shrine. The tour is also suitable for families, as it is kid-friendly, and for those who prefer a moderate activity level.

What should I bring or wear?

Can this private tour in Kyoto be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?

How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?

Where does the tour start and end?

Is transportation included?

How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?

What languages is this tour offered in?

What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?

Is this a private tour? What is the maximum group size and the starting price?

AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide

-
Hours icon 6 hours 30 minutes
Public transportation
Private tour for 1-9 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 6 hours 30 minutes
Public transportation
Private tour for 1-9 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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