This is a private guided tour report by Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.), a network of 1,000+ government-licensed, English-speaking local guides across all 47 prefectures of Japan. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.
Tour Itinerary
- Saka no Hotel Kyoto (9:00) → Shopping at convenience store
- ① Tenryu-ji Temple・Bamboo Grove Path (9:45〜10:30)
- ② Kinkaku-ji Temple (11:00〜11:30)
- ③ Manshu-in Temple (12:00〜12:50)
- ④ Kyoto Gyoen National Garden 【Lunch】(13:20〜14:00)
- ⑤ Nanzen-ji Temple・Suirokaku Aqueduct (14:20〜14:45)
- → Saka no Hotel Kyoto (15:05)
What Can You See on a 6-Hour Private Kyoto Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report
The guests were a group visiting from Europe. Some of the guests were on their second visit to Japan, while others were experiencing sightseeing in Japan for the first time. They had arrived in Kyoto the previous day and had already visited the Kiyomizu-dera and Higashiyama area near their accommodation. We began with the classic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Tenryu-ji Temple, then traveled along the Kinukake-no-Michi road to Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion). To avoid the crowds, we stopped by Manshu-in Temple before having a meal at the Kyoto Imperial Palace grounds. We then continued to Nanzen-ji Temple. The guests seemed to really enjoy these beautiful, calm, and less crowded spots, and they had a wonderful time on their 6-hour private tour of Kyoto. Since they would be staying in Kyoto until the following morning, I suggested Nijo Castle, the Kyoto Imperial Palace, and the Sento Imperial Palace as possible destinations for them.
Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
Hello! I am Osamu Kitagawa , National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter(English). Please call me SAM.
I love Japanese culture, history, and visiting historical places, scenic spots, and fashionable spots as well. I can guide you all over Japan as I have ever visited all prefectures in Japan. I have a global experience in international banking business including residing in Hong Kong and Jakarta. So I’m able to have daily conversations in Indonesian language, too. I’m looking forward to seeing you soon!
Certification
Certified Travel Services Manager
Authorized Tour Conductor
Kyoto Expert Certification
Jul 23, 2026
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