Getting around Osaka in comfort means booking a private car service – and it’s worth every yen. These custom tours, covering Osaka, Nara, and Kyoto, start at $620 for small groups and go up to €938.25 for larger parties of 13.
I’m especially impressed with the door-to-door service and local drivers who know their stuff. The best tours include stops at heavy-hitters like Osaka Castle and Kiyomizu Temple, but also venture into lesser-known spots that big bus tours miss.
Fair warning: wheelchair access is limited, though families will appreciate the available child seats. Each vehicle comes equipped with modern amenities and air conditioning – essential for Japan’s humid summers.
For travelers seeking culture and hassle-free sightseeing, two tours stand out: the full-day Osaka highlights tour and the Kyoto-Nara combination journey. Both offer outstanding value and flexibility.
Check out our selected top tours below.
Key Points
- Osaka offers private car tour services that provide customizable itineraries and transportation in comfortable vehicles, catering to group sizes from 3 to 13 participants.
- These private car tours cover popular attractions in Osaka, Nara, and Kyoto, allowing travelers to explore at their own pace with knowledgeable local guides.
- The tours include round-trip transportation from hotels, essential amenities, and sometimes entrance fees and meals, providing a convenient and value-added experience.
- Wheelchair accessibility is limited, but child seats are available, ensuring a comfortable experience for families traveling with infants.
- Exceptional reviews highlight the flexibility and personalization of these private car services, with the option to request English-speaking guides and customize the itinerary to suit individual preferences.
Private Car Full Day Tour of Osaka Temples, Gardens and Kofun Tombs
The Private Car Full Day Tour of Osaka Temples, Gardens and Kofun Tombs offers a comprehensive exploration of Osaka’s rich cultural heritage. Priced at $680 for up to 6 people, the tour includes a knowledgeable local guide, private transportation, and admission fees.
Highlights include the iconic Osaka Castle, the serene Shitennoji Temple, the vibrant Shinsekai district, and the historic Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine. Guests can also visit the Sakai City Hall Observatory and the expansive Daisen Park.
The tour is highly customizable, allowing travelers to tailor the itinerary to their interests. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is near public transportation, and infant seats are available.
Positive reviews praise the exceptional guides and personalized experiences.
Read our full review: Private Car Full Day Tour of Osaka Temples, Gardens and Kofun Tombs Review
Book now: Check availability
From Osaka to Nara to Kyoto: A Private Day Tour With Driver
Explore Osaka, Nara, and Kyoto on this private day tour with a driver. The tour costs €451.02 for up to 3 participants and lasts 10 hours.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour is customizable, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
Highlights include Shinsaibashi, Ninenzaka, Sannenzaka, Nara Park, Kuromon Market, and Kiyomizu Temple. Lunch is at your own expense.
Round-trip transportation from your hotel is included, with pickup 15-30 minutes before the start. Vehicle options range from a 5-seater car to a 10-seater van.
The driver provides suggestions but doesn’t act as a guide. Entrance fees and personal expenses aren’t included.
Read our full review: From Osaka to Nara to Kyoto: A Private Day Tour With Driver Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Car Day Trip to the Kobe Mountains, Gardens and Hot Springs From Osaka
Set out on a private car day trip from Osaka to the captivating Kobe Mountains, lush Gardens, and rejuvenating Hot Springs. Rated 4.5 out of 5, this tour offers a comprehensive experience for up to 6 people at $620 per group.
Ascend the historic Mount Rokko cable car, admire panoramic views, explore the Kobe Botanical Gardens, and relax in the Arima Onsen hot springs.
Pickup is available from centrally located Osaka hotels, with additional fees for further locations. The flexible itinerary and knowledgeable guides, such as Levy and Kevin, ensure a personalized and enjoyable journey.
Wheelchair accessibility is limited, but child seats are available, making it suitable for families.
Read our full review: Private Car Day Trip to the Kobe Mountains, Gardens and Hot Springs From Osaka Review
Book now: Check availability
Osaka Full-Day Trip With Daily Chauffeur
For those seeking a comprehensive Osaka experience, the Osaka Full-Day Trip with Daily Chauffeur offers an exceptional opportunity to discover the city’s top attractions in a comfortable and convenient manner.
Priced at €938.25 per group (up to 3 participants), this 8-hour tour includes private transportation, a Chinese and Japanese-speaking driver, and visits to iconic landmarks such as Osaka Castle Park, Dotonbori, and the Umeda Blue Sky Building Sky Garden.
Travelers can enjoy free time for shopping and dining, as well as sightseeing at the Tenpozan Ferris Wheel. The tour includes essential amenities like a free bottle of water, while excluding meals and attraction tickets.
Flexibility is key, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Read our full review: Osaka Full-Day Trip With Daily Chauffeur Review
Book now: Check availability
KYOTO-NARA Custom Tour With Private Car and Driver (Max 13 Pax)
This KYOTO-NARA Custom Tour with Private Car and Driver (Max 13 pax) offers visitors a personalized exploration of two of Japan’s most captivating destinations.
Boasting a 5.0 rating based on 10 reviews, the tour provides door-to-door service, with a private air-conditioned vehicle and knowledgeable guides.
Highlights include visiting a bamboo forest, Kinkakuji-cho temple, and a mochi shop, all while ensuring accessibility for wheelchair users and families with children.
Travelers rave about the customizable itinerary, punctual drivers, and unique local experiences, such as dining at a conveyor belt sushi restaurant.
With meals, entrance fees, and parking included, this tour provides an exceptional value for small groups seeking a tailored journey through Kyoto and Nara.
Read our full review: KYOTO-NARA Custom Tour With Private Car and Driver (Max 13 Pax) Review
Book now: Check availability
Osaka: 10-Hour Customizable Tour With Private Car
Travelers often choose the Osaka: 10-Hour Customizable Tour with Private Car for its flexibility and convenience.
Priced at €493.49 for up to 3 participants, this private tour offers a 10-hour exploration of Osaka’s landmarks, parks, architecture, museums, shopping, and street food markets.
With a professional driver included for transportation and navigation, the itinerary can be customized to suit individual interests. An optional English-speaking guide is available for an additional charge.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioning, and all fees. Overtime charges apply if the tour exceeds 10 hours.
This private car service provides a personalized experience to discover Osaka at your own pace.
Read our full review: Osaka: 10-Hour Customizable Tour With Private Car Review
Book now: Check availability
Custom KYOTO-OSAKA Tour With Private Car and Driver (Max 9 Pax)
Why not explore Kyoto and Osaka with a private car and driver?
This custom tour offers door-to-door service with an air-conditioned vehicle and a knowledgeable guide. With a maximum of 9 passengers, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience visiting highlights like the Bamboo Forest, Golden Temple, and Fushimi Inari Shrine.
The tour includes entrance fees, transportation costs, and even meals if desired. Travelers have praised the tour’s organization, cultural insights, and the guide’s friendliness.
Whether you’re a family, group of friends, or solo traveler, this Kyoto-Osaka tour provides a convenient and enriching way to discover these iconic Japanese cities.
Read our full review: Custom KYOTO-OSAKA Tour With Private Car and Driver (Max 9 Pax) Review
Book now: Check availability
KYOTO-NARA Custom Tour With Private Car and Driver (Max 4 Pax)
For those seeking a more intimate exploration of Kyoto and Nara, the KYOTO-NARA Custom Tour with Private Car and Driver (Max 4 Pax) offers a personalized experience.
At approximately $900 for up to 4 passengers, this tour includes door-to-door service, private transportation, and all necessary fees.
While past customers have reported mixed experiences with guides, positive reviews praise the knowledgeable and attentive staff, as well as the flexibility to customize the itinerary.
However, some travelers encountered challenges with communication and unexpected costs.
Read our full review: KYOTO-NARA Custom Tour With Private Car and Driver (Max 4 Pax) Review
Book now: Check availability
Sum Up
Private car tours with a driver can provide a convenient and comfortable way to explore Osaka and the surrounding areas. These tours offer flexibility to customize the itinerary, visit popular temples, gardens, and other sights at your own pace. With expert local drivers, travelers can make the most of their time in the region.