Full-day tours in Kyoto showcase the city’s essence efficiently and enjoyably. After exploring this city for decades, I’ve found that certain tour formats stand out from the rest.
Bicycle tours rank among my favorites, letting you zip between temples while avoiding traffic — perfect for active travelers who want to cover more ground. Private guided tours, though pricier, offer incredible value by adapting to your interests and schedule. The cultural tours that include tea ceremonies and UNESCO sites provide the deepest insights into Kyoto’s traditions.
For those preferring comfort, the private car tours excel at reaching distant temples like Kinkaku-ji and Arashiyama’s bamboo forests without hassle. Each recommended tour includes essential extras: admission fees, meals, and expert local guides who know their stuff.
Let’s look at the best full-day tours worth your time and money in Kyoto.
Key Points
- Kyoto’s top-rated full-day tours include biking tours, private customized tours, and cultural/historical tours with English-speaking guides and admission fees included.
- Private full-day tours offer flexible itineraries, transportation, and expert commentary, catering to travelers with limited time and accessibility needs.
- Comprehensive culture experiences, such as tea ceremonies and visits to UNESCO World Heritage sites, are offered in full-day guided tours.
- Full-day Kyoto tours are priced between $177 and $600 per person or per group, with options for small-group and private settings.
- Advance booking is recommended to secure desired tour dates, with some tours offering free cancellation and flexible payment options.
Full Day Biking Tour Exploring the Best of Kyoto
This full-day biking tour offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of Kyoto’s top attractions. Covering major sights like the Imperial Palace, Gion district, Kinkaku-ji, and Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, it’s no wonder this tour is rated 4.9 out of 376 reviews and recommended by 98% of travelers.
Included are a high-quality Giant hybrid bike, helmet, hearty Japanese lunch, and bottled water. While not suitable for those with certain medical conditions, the moderate fitness level required ensures an enjoyable cycling experience through Kyoto’s local backroads and less touristy spots.
With free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option, this tour provides excellent value for money.
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From Osaka: Kyoto Full Day Customized Private Tour
From Osaka, travelers can embark on a customized private tour of Kyoto, exploring the city’s iconic landmarks at their own pace.
The Kyoto Full Day Customized Private Tour offers a flexible itinerary, allowing participants to choose from a list of must-see spots, including the stunning Togetsukyo Bridge, the enchanting Bamboo Forest of Arashiyama, and the renowned Kiyomizudera temple.
Along the way, the tour provides numerous photogenic opportunities, including Kyoto’s shrines and street art.
Travelers will be transported in air-conditioned vehicles, enjoy hotel pickup and drop-off, and receive the services of an English-speaking driver.
With a duration of 8 hours and a price starting from Kč 11,899 per group, this tour is a comprehensive and customizable way to discover the best of Kyoto.
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1-Full Day Private Tour of Kyoto for 1 Day Visitors
A tailored full-day private tour of Kyoto is the ideal option for visitors with limited time in the city. This 9-hour experience, including travel time, offers a personalized exploration of the top sights.
Groups of up to 8 travelers are guided by knowledgeable experts, with transportation and entrance fees included. Highlights like Kinkakuji Temple and Nijo Castle are covered, along with a provided lunch.
The tour is flexible, allowing guides to adjust the itinerary to suit families. Reviews praise the convenient transportation, warm interactions, and personalized experiences.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly. At $490 per group, this private tour provides an efficient and enjoyable way to maximize a one-day visit to Kyoto.
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Full Day Guided Kyoto Cultural Tour
For visitors seeking an immersive cultural experience, the Full Day Guided Kyoto Cultural Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s renowned landmarks and traditions.
This 10-hour tour, which includes pickup service, takes travelers to top sites like the Imperial Palace and Nijo Castle. Guided by an English-speaking expert, the tour provides in-depth insights into Kyoto’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Highlights include a walking tour of the Gion district, known for its geisha culture, and a visit to a traditional tea house for a ceremonial tea experience.
With a small-group setting and a 4.9 rating, this tour provides an authentic and memorable glimpse into the heart of Kyoto.
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Nara Todaiji Kasuga Taisha Private Full Day Tour From Kyoto
Though Kyoto offers a wealth of cultural attractions, the Nara Todaiji Kasuga Taisha Private Full Day Tour from Kyoto provides an opportunity to venture beyond the city’s limits and explore the historic treasures of Nara.
This private, full-day tour includes an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and transportation via JR Pass. Travelers can visit the impressive Todaiji Temple and the serene Kasuga Shrine, while enjoying a traditional Japanese lunch.
The tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility issues or certain medical conditions, but most travelers can participate. With an overall rating of 5.0 based on 5 reviews, this tour promises an enjoyable and educational experience.
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Kyoto: Private Full Day Car Tour by English Speaking Driver
Travelers seeking a more personalized exploration of Kyoto can consider the Kyoto: Private Full Day Car Tour by English Speaking Driver.
This tour provides a flexible itinerary that allows participants to customize their experience based on their interests. With an English-speaking driver, visitors can efficiently navigate Kyoto’s top attractions, including Nijo Castle, Arashiyama, the Ramen Factory, and Fushimi Inari Taisha.
The tour also offers immersive experiences, such as guided walks through the Gion district at night. Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars from 346 reviews, this private car tour provides a convenient and personalized way to discover the cultural highlights of Kyoto.
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All Inclusive Full Day Private Kyoto Sightseeing Tour
Designed for those seeking an all-encompassing Kyoto experience, the All Inclusive Full Day Private Kyoto Sightseeing Tour offers a flexible 3-hour itinerary guided by a knowledgeable local.
Priced from €100.78 per person, the private tour includes a local guide, private car, and driver. The customizable tour allows travelers to visit major shrines, temples, and local markets.
Wheelchair accessible and near public transportation, the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart problems.
With a 5-star rating from 6 reviews, travelers praise the guide’s flexibility, friendliness, and knowledge.
Offering a lowest price guarantee and reserve now, pay later option, this tour provides a personalized Kyoto sightseeing experience.
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Kyoto: Full Day UNESCO And Historical Sites Private Car Tour
Delving into Kyoto’s UNESCO World Heritage sites and historical landmarks, the Kyoto: Full Day UNESCO And Historical Sites Private Car Tour offers an immersive exploration.
Priced at €474.19 per group (up to 6 participants), this private tour showcases key attractions, including Kiyomizu-dera, Sanjusangen-do, and the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest.
Wheelchair-accessible transportation with Wi-Fi is provided, along with hotel pickup and drop-off. Guests can expect 1 hour at each site, with a total travel time of 3 hours.
Inclusions cover private transportation, refreshments, and assistance with photos.
Though meals and attraction tickets are excluded, this tour provides a comprehensive full-day experience to discover Kyoto’s cultural and historical treasures.
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Kyoto Custom Full Day Tour
Offering a fully customizable full-day experience, the Kyoto Private Customizable Full Day Tour allows travelers to curate their ideal Kyoto itinerary.
Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 5 reviews, this 8-hour tour provides transportation, an English-speaking guide, and the chance to visit 4-5 top sites.
Pickup is available at Kyoto Station or your city center hotel, with the tour ending back at the original meeting point.
While meals and entrance fees aren’t included, the tour can be tailored to your interests.
Moderate cancellation fees apply, and it’s recommended to book 1-3 months in advance for the best arrangements.
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Full Day Kyoto Chartered Taxi Tour
The Full Day Kyoto Chartered Taxi Tour allows travelers to explore Kyoto’s top sights comfortably and efficiently.
This private tour with an English-speaking guide starts with hotel pickup and includes transportation by taxi, which costs around 40,000 yen on average.
The tour is non-refundable, and admission fees are the responsibility of customers. Food and drinks aren’t included, but the tour is accessible for wheelchair users and stroller-bound travelers.
With an overall rating of 5.0 based on 1 review, the tour provides a knowledgeable guide and a well-planned itinerary to make the day unforgettable.
Confirmation is received at the time of booking or within 48 hours for last-minute reservations.
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Kyoto: Nara, Todaiji, Kasuga Taisha Shrine Private Full Day
For those seeking to explore the historical and cultural wonders of Kyoto and Nara, the Kyoto: Nara, Todaiji, Kasuga Taisha Shrine Private Full Day tour provides an immersive and personalized experience.
Priced at $177.06 per person, this 8-hour tour is limited to 9 participants and led by an English-speaking guide. Highlights include a train ride to Nara, visiting the Kōfuku-ji, Tōdai-ji, and Kasuga Taisha shrines, as well as the Naramachi district.
With included entrance fees, transportation, and the option for a traditional lunch, this tour offers a comprehensive look at the region’s top attractions.
Customer reviews praise the knowledgeable guide and adaptable itinerary, making this an excellent choice for those seeking a well-rounded Kyoto and Nara experience.
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Kyoto Full Day Private Tour With Local Guide
Exploring the cultural and historical wonders of Kyoto through a personalized private tour can be an enriching experience.
The Kyoto Full Day Private Tour with Local Guide offers visitors a customized journey at $341.63 per group of up to 6 people. While the tour boasts a 4.4-rating, some customers have expressed dissatisfaction with the transportation and tour duration.
The tour includes a guide, food and drinks, transportation, and entrance tickets. The meeting point is the Disney Store in Kyoto, and the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
However, the tour is non-refundable, and no refunds are available for cancellations.
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10 Hrs Full Day Kyoto Tour W/Hotel Pick-Up
Topping the list of Kyoto’s best full-day tours, the 10 Hours Full Day Kyoto Tour with Hotel Pick-Up whisks visitors on a comprehensive exploration of the city’s renowned landmarks.
Priced at $601.34 per group of up to 2 participants, the tour covers iconic sites like the Golden Pavilion, Fushimi Inari Shrine, and the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest.
With an English-speaking driver and a host to assist with tickets and lines, the experience provides a hassle-free culture.
Travelers can also opt for a traditional kimono rental.
Offering breathtaking scenery and stellar customer reviews, this full-day tour sets the bar high for experiencing the best of historic Kyoto.
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Full Day Private Walking Day Tour in Kyoto With Tea
Priced at €387.61 per group (up to 10 participants), the Full Day Private Walking Tour in Kyoto With Tea offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s renowned landmarks.
Guided by an English-speaking expert, the tour includes visits to the Daitokuji Temple complex, with entrance fees to the sub-temples. Lunch and the cost of food and drinks during the tour are also covered.
The tour starts at Daitokuji-mae and ends at a different location, with convenient bus access.
Wheelchair and stroller-friendly, the private tour ensures a personalized experience.
Confirmation is provided within 48 hours, subject to availability, making it an accessible and seamless option for visitors to Kyoto.
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Kyoto Full Day Excursion From Kobe/Osaka Port
One of the most popular full-day tours in Kyoto is the Kyoto Full Day Excursion From Kobe/Osaka Port.
This 12-hour tour takes visitors to the top UNESCO and historical sites, including the Hiroshima Miyajima.
With an optional audio guide, the tour provides an in-depth exploration of Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage.
Priced at $260.58 per person, the tour has received 4.7 out of 5 stars from 345 reviews.
For those looking to maximize their Kyoto experience in a single day, this comprehensive excursion from the nearby ports is an excellent choice.
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Private Full Day Kyoto Tour by Public Transport/Private Transport
Travelers seeking a more personalized and immersive Kyoto experience can consider the Private Full Day Kyoto Tour by Public Transport/Private Transport.
This tour is led by a National Licensed Guide who’ll provide a history and culture briefing at the sightseeing spots. Pricing starts at $208.04 per person, with additional fees for lunch, admission, and transportation.
Pickup is available from the Kyoto Station or your hotel. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and is a private experience for your group only.
Cancellations are non-refundable, so it’s recommended to check availability before booking this tour, which starts at 9:00 am.
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Kyoto Full Day (8 Hours) Sightseeing Privatetour
The Kyoto Full Day (8 hours) Ultimate Sightseeing Private Tour offers an immersive and personalized exploration of Kyoto’s renowned cultural landmarks.
Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars from 12 reviews, this private tour provides flexibility with pickup options within Kyoto.
Over 8 hours, guests will visit iconic sites like Kinkakuji Temple, Fushimi Inari Shrine, and the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, accompanied by knowledgeable and engaging guides.
While some travelers noted traffic delays, the tour’s highlights and private nature make it a top choice for those seeking an in-depth Kyoto experience.
The tour is priced at $490 for up to 10 people, with no refunds for cancellations.
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1-Full Day Private Experience of Culture and History of Kyoto for 1 Day Visitors
For those with only a single day to explore Kyoto, the “Kyoto Uncovered: One Full-Day Private Experience for First-Timers” tour offers an immersive dive into the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Priced from $490 per group of up to 8 travelers, the tour includes guided services, transportation, entrance fees, and lunch.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it provides a personalized experience with an itinerary tailored to individual preferences.
The tour has received mixed reviews, with some customers reporting issues with additional transportation costs.
Nonetheless, it presents an opportunity for first-time visitors to uncover the essence of Kyoto in a single day.
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Kyoto Full Day Tour With a Local Travel Companion
Although Kyoto boasts a wealth of cultural and historical attractions, navigating the city can be daunting for first-time visitors. The Kyoto Full Day Tour with a Local Travel Companion offers a solution.
Priced from $320 for up to 8 people, the tour includes a local guide, lunch, and admission to top sights like Kiyomizu-dera, Nijo Castle, and Kinkaku-ji. Pickup is available from any location in Kyoto, with an 9 AM start time.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it accommodates strollers and requires a moderate level of fitness. With a maximum of 7 travelers, this personalized experience ensures an intimate and immersive exploration of Kyoto’s cherished landmarks.
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Private Full Day Tour KYOTO KANAZAWA SHIRAKAWAGO
This private full-day tour takes travelers on a captivating journey through the enchanting regions of Kyoto, Kanazawa, and Shirakawago.
Equipped with an air-conditioned vehicle and private transportation, the tour includes fuel fees, toll fees, accommodations, entrance fees, and a delectable combination of breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Guests can enjoy door-to-door service, with pickup and drop-off options tailored to their convenience.
The tour caters to a wide range of travelers, with infant seats, wheelchair accessibility, and stroller accessibility available.
Confirmation is provided at booking, and the tour operates near public transportation, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.
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The Sum Up
Kyoto offers a variety of full-day tour options to explore the city’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can experience Kyoto’s iconic landmarks, such as temples and shrines, through guided tours or customized private excursions. These tours provide an immersive experience, allowing travelers to discover the city’s history, traditions, and natural beauty. With numerous tour options available, visitors can find the perfect way to make the most of their time in Kyoto.