Explore the enchanting cities of Kyoto and Nara with a private car tour. This all-inclusive journey showcases iconic temples, shrines, and historic sites. Discover the world’s largest bronze Buddha at Todaiji Temple, stroll through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and admire the golden splendor of Kinkakuji Temple. With flexible pickup options and a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers a seamless way to experience the cultural riches of these remarkable destinations. What hidden gems and unexpected delights might this journey uncover?
Key Points
- This private, all-inclusive tour provides a comprehensive exploration of Kyoto and Nara, with a customizable pickup location and time starting at 8:00 am.
- The tour includes a knowledgeable guide, transportation, fees, food, and admission costs, with a group size of up to 6 people.
- Iconic landmarks in Kyoto, such as Kinkakuji Temple and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, as well as the Nishiki Market, are featured in the tour.
- Nara attractions include Todaiji Temple, home to the world’s largest bronze Buddha, and Nara Park, famous for its free-roaming deer.
- The tour is wheelchair accessible, but not recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions or physical limitations.
Tour Overview
The Kyoto and Nara Tour by Car from Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe offers visitors a private, all-inclusive experience to explore the historical and cultural highlights of these two renowned Japanese cities.
Priced from $337.68 per group (up to 6 people), the tour includes a knowledgeable guide, transportation, fees, and even food and admission costs. Guests can choose their pickup location and time, with the tour starting at 8:00 am.
While the tour is wheelchair accessible, it’s not recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions. Confirmation is provided upon booking, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Kyoto.
Inclusions
This private tour includes a guiding fee, the cost of the car and gasoline, expressway fees, parking fees, as well as food and admission fees. The tour’s inclusions can be summarized in the following table:
Inclusion | Description |
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Guiding fee | Fee for the professional guide |
Car and gasoline | Cost of the private vehicle and fuel |
Expressway fees | Fees for using expressways during the tour |
Parking fees | Fees for parking at various tour sites |
Food and admission | Costs for any meals and entrance fees |
All of these elements are covered in the tour price, ensuring a hassle-free and comprehensive experience for your.
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup points are available for this tour, and guests should look for a guide wearing a red cap to commence the experience.
The tour departs at 8:00 am sharp, so punctuality is recommended.
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Pickup is available from various locations, allowing for convenience and flexibility.
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Guests should keep an eye out for the tour guide in a distinctive red cap to easily identify them.
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The tour starts promptly at 8:00 am, so it’s important for participants to be on time to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Accessibility
Though the tour is wheelchair accessible, with transportation and surfaces that accommodate those needs, it is not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions. The tour offers stroller and infant seats, allowing families to explore the sights comfortably. However, those with physical limitations may find the tour challenging due to the walking and standing involved.
Accessibility | Advantages | Limitations |
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Wheelchair | Accessible transportation and surfaces | Not recommended for those with back problems |
Strollers/Infant Seats | Allows families to explore comfortably | Not suitable for travelers with serious medical conditions |
Most Travelers | Can participate in the tour | Pregnant travelers may find it challenging |
Exploring Kyoto
As visitors embark on the Kyoto and Nara Tour by Car, they’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of these historic cities.
The tour highlights some of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks, including:
- The serene Kinkakuji Temple, known as the "Golden Pavilion" for its stunning golden-leaf-covered facade
- The serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering bamboo stalks sway in the breeze, creating an otherworldly atmosphere
- The vibrant Nishiki Market, a bustling "kitchen of Kyoto" with an array of local delicacies and crafts
Exploring these sites offers a glimpse into Japan’s enduring traditions and timeless beauty.
Discovering Nara
After exploring Kyoto’s cultural landmarks, the Kyoto and Nara Tour by Car takes visitors to the historic city of Nara. In Nara, travelers can marvel at the iconic Todaiji Temple, home to the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue. Nearby, they’ll encounter the friendly deer that roam freely in Nara Park. The tour also includes visits to Kasuga Taisha Shrine and Kofukuji Temple, renowned for their stunning architecture and rich history.
Attraction | Description | Duration |
---|---|---|
Todaiji Temple | World’s largest bronze Buddha statue | 1 hour |
Nara Park | Home to friendly deer | 30 minutes |
Kasuga Taisha Shrine | Iconic Shinto shrine | 45 minutes |
Kofukuji Temple | Impressive Buddhist temple | 1 hour |
Highlights of the Tour
The Kyoto and Nara Tour by Car offers a comprehensive exploration of two of Japan’s most captivating historic destinations.
The tour highlights include:
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Visiting the iconic Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the "Golden Pavilion," a Zen temple with its top two floors completely covered in gold leaf.
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Strolling through the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where you’ll be surrounded by towering bamboo stalks and a peaceful, natural atmosphere.
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Interacting with the friendly deer at Nara Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its free-roaming deer population.
Booking and Flexibility
Booking the Kyoto and Nara Tour by Car is a straightforward process.
Travelers can reserve their spot and pay later, offering flexibility. The tour is priced at $337.68 per group of up to 6 people, making it a cost-effective option.
Pickup locations are available, and guests should look for a guide wearing a red cap to start the tour at 8:00 am.
Travelers with accessibility needs can rest assured, as the tour provides wheelchair-accessible transportation and surfaces, as well as stroller and infant seats.
Free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours before the experience, providing peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Tour Be Customized to My Preferences?
Yes, the tour can be customized to the customer’s preferences. The tour provider allows for flexibility in the itinerary and activities to meet the specific needs and interests of each group.
What Type of Car Will Be Used for the Tour?
The type of car used for the tour is not explicitly stated. However, the tour includes the "cost of car, gasoline" and is described as a "private tour/activity", suggesting a private vehicle will be provided to accommodate the group size of up to 6 people.
Are There Any Specific Dress Code Requirements?
The tour has no specific dress code requirements. Casual, comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear for walking are recommended. Participants should dress for the weather, as the tour takes place outdoors.
Can I Request a Multilingual Guide?
Yes, you can request a multilingual guide. The tour operator offers guides who speak multiple languages, so you can request a guide who speaks your preferred language to ensure a smooth and informative tour experience.
How Long Is the Total Duration of the Tour?
The total duration of the tour is not explicitly stated in the provided information. However, it’s reasonable to expect a full-day tour given the number of destinations and activities included, though the exact duration may vary.
The Sum Up
This private car tour from Kyoto, Osaka, or Kobe provides an immersive experience showcasing the cultural and historical wonders of Kyoto and Nara. With a knowledgeable guide, transportation, meals, and admission fees included, travelers can customize their itinerary and enjoy the flexibility to start their journey from the most convenient location. Exploring iconic sites like Kinkakuji Temple and the Todaiji Temple’s massive Buddha statue, this tour offers an enchanting glimpse into Japan’s captivating heritage.
More Tours in Kyoto
- Private Full-Day Walking Tour of Kyoto
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More Tour Reviews in Kyoto
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- Private Full-Day Walking Tour of Kyoto
- Hidden Temples in Kyoto a Self-Guided Zen Tour
- 2 Hour Private Tour of Arashiyama Highlights
- Nara 9hr Tour Licensed Guide&Vehicle: Kyoto Pickup/Osaka Dropoff
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