4 Best Helicopter Flights And Tours In Kyoto

Kyoto’s helicopter tours offer a spectacular way to see this ancient capital from above. The most practical options include a focused 20-minute private flight covering major temples and shrines, and a comprehensive 4.5-hour tour perfect for serious sightseers.

I’m especially fond of the night flights – just 12 minutes long but absolutely magical when the city lights twinkle below. These tours consistently earn top safety ratings and excellent reviews.

We particularly love the 20-minute temple route for its efficiency and outstanding photo opportunities of landmarks like Kinkaku-ji and Kiyomizu-dera.

For those wanting the ultimate experience, the 4.5-hour tour includes multiple passes over the city’s cultural districts and surrounding mountains.

Browse our recommended Kyoto helicopter tours below.

Key Points

• Kyoto offers several private helicopter tours ranging from 12-minute night flights to 4.5-hour cruising tours over iconic landmarks like Kinkakuji Temple and Fushimi Inari Shrine.
• Tour prices start at $134.99 per person for the 4.5-hour Kyoto Helicopter Cruising Tour and go up to $723.98 per group for the 20-minute Kyoto Private Helicopter Tour.
• All tours provide hotel pickup and drop-off, thorough safety orientation, and strict weight and passenger limits (typically up to 3 passengers and 220 kg total).
• Several tours feature 5-star reviews, indicating exceptional customer satisfaction, while one tour has a 5-star rating from a single review.
• Some tours offer additional conveniences like a private driver and Lowest Price Guarantee, as well as Reserve Now and Pay Later options.

[20 Min]Kyoto Private Helicopter Tour : Major Shrines and Temples

The Min]Kyoto Private Helicopter Tour: Major Shrines and Temples offers a unique aerial perspective of Kyoto’s iconic religious sites. This 20-minute flight whisks you over the city’s most renowned shrines and temples, providing breathtaking views from above.

With a maximum of 3 passengers per group, you’ll enjoy a private and personalized experience. The total weight limit of 220 kg per flight and 120 kg per passenger ensures a comfortable ride.

Your journey begins and ends at the JPD Kyoto Heliport, with hotel pickup and drop-off included for your convenience. Safety is paramount, and you’ll receive a thorough orientation before takeoff.

While passengers who’ve dived within the last 24 hours can’t participate, infants can join by sitting on laps. In the event of bad weather or aircraft issues, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

At $723.98 per group, this private helicopter tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to witness Kyoto’s spiritual heart from the sky.

With 5-star reviews, it’s a must-do experience for those seeking a unique perspective of this captivating city.

Read our full review: [20 Min]Kyoto Private Helicopter Tour : Major Shrines and Temples Review
Book now: Check availability

Kyoto: Helicopter Cruising Tour

Soar above Kyoto’s enchanting cityscape on a thrilling Helicopter Cruising Tour. This exhilarating 4.5-hour experience takes you on a private helicopter journey to explore Kyoto’s top landmarks from a bird’s-eye view.

Admire the iconic Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, and the breathtaking Fushimi Inari Shrine with its vibrant red torii gates. Glide over the lush Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and the serene Kamo Shrines.

Along the way, your private driver will be available for pickups and drop-offs, ensuring a seamless and personalized tour. With an impressive 5-star rating from just a single review, this Kyoto Helicopter Cruising Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the city’s cultural wonders from the sky.

Priced at $134.99 per person, this exclusive experience is perfect for travelers seeking a unique and unforgettable way to explore Kyoto’s stunning landscapes.

Read our full review: Kyoto: Helicopter Cruising Tour Review
Book now: Check availability

12 Min]City Lights Helicopter Tour : Kyoto Night View

Witness Kyoto’s captivating skyline come alive on the Min]City Lights Helicopter Tour. This private 12-minute flight will take you soaring over the city after dark, offering breathtaking views of the illuminated landmarks and landscapes.

With a maximum weight limit of 220 kg and a capacity of 3 passengers, you’ll enjoy an intimate experience tailored to your group. Prior to your flight, you’ll receive a comprehensive safety orientation to ensure a smooth and secure journey.

Given the weight restrictions, each passenger mustn’t exceed 120 kg. Plus, you’ll need to refrain from diving activities for 24 hours before the tour.

Your adventure begins and ends at the JPD Kyoto Heliport, with hotel pickup and drop-off included for your convenience. In the event of bad weather or aircraft issues, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

With the Lowest Price Guarantee and a Reserve Now and Pay Later option, this captivating night tour is a must-do experience in Kyoto.

Read our full review: [12 Min]City Lights Helicopter Tour : Kyoto Night View Review
Book now: Check availability

Private Helicopter Cruising in Kyoto

Frequently, travelers to Kyoto seek unique perspectives of the ancient capital, and a private helicopter cruising tour offers an exceptional vantage point.

Operated by H.I.S. Co., Ltd., this activity allows groups of up to 3 passengers to soar above Kyoto’s iconic landmarks. The tour departs from the JPD Kyoto Heliport, which is a 7-minute taxi ride from Mukojima or Chushojima stations.

During the flight, you’ll be subject to strict weight and baggage limitations – the total weight capacity is 220 kg, and each passenger is limited to 110 kg. Baggage must be carried on your lap due to the lack of cargo space.

Health and safety regulations also apply, including restrictions for pregnant travelers and those with heart problems or serious medical conditions.

The private helicopter cruising experience costs from $427.81 per group, and you can confirm your booking within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Changes to the departure date are allowed within the cancellation policy, and you can take advantage of the Reserve Now and Pay Later option.

Read our full review: Private Helicopter Cruising in Kyoto Review
Book now: Check availability

Recap

Take to the skies and witness Kyoto’s iconic landmarks from a bird’s-eye view. Choose from diverse helicopter tours, from the classic sightseeing experience to the enchanting night cityscapes. Soar above the city’s treasured shrines, temples, and landscapes, capturing breathtaking aerial perspectives. With convenient booking options, you can easily elevate your Kyoto adventure to new heights.