Kyoto Highlights & Hidden Gems in Nature (Private Van Eng-Guide)

What's included

What you'll see and do

1. The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Walk the most iconic path of Arashiyama and hear the sound of Japan! Your guide will explain Japanese bamboo’s origin and how it’s related to the invention of lights by Edison.

   15 minutes here

2. Gio-ji Temple

   This temple, located in Arashiyama, is small but a compilation of true Japanese scenery in one place. The serene Japanese garden covered in moss and modest thatched hut surrounded by a bamboo grove and maple trees make tourists want to stay here forever. The guide will give you a story of its origin, the tragic love story of a nan "Gio" in Japanese history.

   15 minutes here · Admission not included

3. Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple

   This small temple is located in the most well-maintained "old-Kyoto-view" area, the northern part of the Arashiyama historical district. The temple is much less crowded than the main area of Arashiyama because of its distance from the station despite its stunning view of countless Buddha statues. The guide will explain its unique history and basic information about Japanese traditions of funerals. (10min Transfer Time + 30min Walk Around)

   15 minutes here · Admission not included

4. Kinkakuji Temple

   Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a must-see destination in Kyoto. Located in the northern part of the city, it's easily accessible by car, even though the public bus takes about an hour from the main area of Kyoto. The temple's main attraction is the stunning golden pavilion that shimmers in the sunlight and is surrounded by a tranquil pond and meticulously maintained gardens. The pavilion is a prime example of the traditional Japanese Zen style, which emphasizes simplicity and natural beauty despite its gorgeous color. You’ll be guided by a local guide with plenty of knowledge about Zen Buddhism and its influence on Japanese culture. (30 min. Transfer Time - 30 min. Walk Around)

   45 minutes here · Admission not included

5. Kifune Shrine

   Kifune Shrine is counted as one of the most scenic Shrine with a river in Japan, located in deep mountain area of Kyoto city. It's very famous for the view of the stare way with red cute lanterns gets lit up at evening, attracting from Instagramers to professional photographers from all over the world. You can also test your fortune (おみくじ omikuji) using the holy water fountain at the main building. The holy dragon will show your fortune on your paper once you float it on the sacred fountain

   30 minutes here

6. Shogunzuka Seiryuden Temple

   This is the best city view spot of Kyoto, for not just for modern young couples, named after the first Shogun who visited here first about 1500 years ago, and also famous that even the emperor visited here first to build his capital in 794. You can see the whole Kyoto city from western end to the southern end, and even 50 km (35 miles) away Osaka city high-rises so clearly.

   10 minutes here

7. Heian Jingu Shrine Otorii

   The biggest torii gate (red shrine gate) of Kyoto built for Heian Jingu Imperial Shrine. The height is 24.4 meters (80 feet), one of the biggest torii gate in Japan

   5 minutes here

8. Hanamikoji Street

   Experience the 600-year-old street known for Geishas by car! Avoid walking in crowds, and take photos from the car. (Taking pictures of Geishas need their permission)

   Pass by without stopping

9. Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine

   Fushimi-Inari Shrine is the most popular and iconic tourist attraction in Kyoto, with its famous path of "SenbonTorii" (thousands of gates, but actually it has more than 10,000 gates dedicated now), visited and beloved by Japanese people since 711 A.C. Starting from the giant gates, as the gates get smaller, your ego is believed to get smaller, and you start to feel the unity with nature when you have rounded back to the main shrine. Even while on the way, in the super-spiritual atmosphere, you will meet many unique objects and small shrines to be introduced by the guide leading the way. (60 min Transfer Time + 70 min Walk Around)

   40 minutes here

Where it starts and ends

Options you can book

• Private Van (6 max)

  Nissan Serena Pickup included

• Convertible Car (1 guest only)

  Mini Cooper Convertible: Limited Edition (HighGate) Pickup included

Before you book

Cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Languages

ja, en

Ticket

Mobile Only

Runs on

Every day

Group size

Up to 15 travelers per booking

Operated by

WadaF Tours

Know before you go

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Some temples need walks and walking up stairs to visit. Please ask the guide if you need to avoid those
• Parts of itinerary may change or update by the season or other circumstances

Photos

Traveler reviews

27 verified traveler reviews for Kyoto Highlights & Hidden Gems in Nature (Private Van Eng-Guide). Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.