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

  • 09:00 Kyoto Station at the Central Exit of Shinkansen on the second 8:30 arrived
  • floor
  • 09:30 Fushimi inari (0)
  • 10:30 Kiyomizudera (500)
  • 12:00 Kinkakuji (500)
  • Lunch (Kura Sushi)
  • 13:50 Arashiyama Bamboo path
  • 14:10 Arashiyama Togetsukyo
  • 14:50 Nijo Castle (1300)
  • 16:00 Kyoto Tower Building
  •     End of the tour

What Is a Private Day Trip from Tokyo to Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report

The guests were visitors from North America. The guests got along very well. Since one of the guests seemed to have some difficulty walking, I was careful to plan the tour so as not to tire them out. We covered all the destinations that the guests had chosen, but as we ran short on time, the tour was extended by one hour, and the guests paid an additional taxi fare. It was a day-trip itinerary from Tokyo, and since the guests wanted to have a meal before taking the 18:16 bullet train back to Tokyo, I guided them to the food hall on the B1 floor of the Kyoto Tower building. I also let them know that if there was time to spare, they could go up Kyoto Tower.

I’m Ryoichi Kazuma and my nickname is “Kazz”. I live in Kyotanabe city next to Kyoto city. I want guests to enjoy Kyoto by seeing and experiencing not only from outside but also from inside. I offer various information from daily matters to traditional cultures. Most destinations in Kyoto are located on the eastern side or the western side. As I want to guide guests to as many destinations as possible, I make an efficient itinerary and recommend a taxi use to save time. Additionally, I take pictures at various spots and finally share the link to my storage. By doing so, guests can download their favorite pictures from my storage. Please enjoy Kyoto night and day!

Jul 14, 2026
T6871WWricharde
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
Kazz gave a great one on one 8 hour custom tour…

Jun 5, 2026
mateoe216
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Would book again
The tour with Kazuma-san was absolutely great. As someone…

May 27, 2026
Leah_D
Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Absolutely recommend!
I definitely recommend seeing some of the sights with a…

May 26, 2026
sheilacL3330KS
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Very enthusiastic and knowledgable guide. Much appreciated
Kazz was an excellent guide…