Kyoto, the former imperial capital of Japan, is renowned for its exquisite temples, gardens, and cultural heritage. A private full-day classic sightseeing tour provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore iconic landmarks like the Tenryū-ji Temple and the Arashiyama bamboo grove. Led by an English-speaking guide, the tour offers insights into Kyoto‘s rich history while ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience. With moderate physical fitness required, this tour is perfect for active individuals seeking to discover the city’s cultural treasures. But what makes this tour truly unique, and why should one consider it over other options?
Key Points
- Full-day private tour of Kyoto’s iconic cultural and historical landmarks, including Tenryū-ji Temple, Arashiyama bamboo grove, Kinkakuji, and Nijo Castle.
- Tour led by an English-speaking guide and utilizes public transportation to reach various destinations.
- Admission fees for Tenryū-ji Temple Garden and Main Hall are not included in the tour fee.
- Moderate physical fitness required, as the tour involves extensive walking and exploring historic sites.
- Confirmation of booking is provided within 48 hours, and a free cancellation policy is available up to 24 hours before the tour.
Tour Overview
The Kyoto Private Full Day Classic Sightseeing Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of Kyoto’s renowned cultural and historical landmarks.
This full-day tour takes participants to iconic sites like Tenryu-ji Temple and its impressive gardens. The tour begins at 10:00 am at Kyoto Station, where an English-speaking guide will meet the group.
Over the course of the day, you will utilize public transportation to reach the various destinations. While lunch isn’t included, the guide will be present throughout the tour to provide insights and ensure a seamless experience.
The tour concludes back at the starting point in Kyoto Station.
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Inclusions and Costs
Although the tour fee doesn’t cover participants’ meals, it includes the services of an English-speaking guide who’ll accompany the group throughout the day.
Train travel is also included, though participants must pay for their own tickets.
Admission fees for Tenryu-ji Temple Garden (500 yen) and the Garden and Main Hall (800 yen) aren’t covered by the tour price, and the guide’s admission must be paid by the participants.
The tour has a moderate physical fitness requirement and isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Infants won’t have seats provided for them.
Physical Requirements and Accessibility
To participate in this full-day sightseeing tour, a moderate level of physical fitness is required.
The tour involves extensive walking and exploring historic sites, which may not be suitable for those with mobility issues. Unfortunately, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Plus, no seats are provided for infants, so parents must plan accordingly.
This tour is best suited for active individuals who can comfortably navigate uneven terrain and stairs.
Travelers should assess their physical capabilities before booking to ensure they can fully enjoy the sightseeing experience.
Booking Information
Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. Customers can enjoy a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts. The tour is priced from $99.08 per person and offers a lowest price guarantee. Customers can reserve now and pay later.
Booking Details | ||
---|---|---|
Booking Confirm | 48 hrs | Subject to Availability |
Cancellation | 24 hrs | Free |
Price | From $99.08 | Per Person |
The tour meets near public transportation, and the guide will be waiting at the meeting point holding a board with a sushi illustration.
Meeting Point and Start Time
The tour starts at 10:00 am at Kyoto Station, Higashishiokoji Kamadonocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8216, Japan.
This is the designated meeting point where the private English-speaking guide will be waiting, holding a board with a sushi illustration.
The tour ends back at the same location, so participants can easily return to their starting point.
The full-day tour covers various classic Kyoto sights, with the guide leading the way.
Travelers will need to make their own way to the meeting point, as transportation costs aren’t included in the tour price.
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Tour Highlights and Itinerary
After the meeting at Kyoto Station, the tour takes participants to explore some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and cultural sites.
The first stop is the serene Tenryū-ji Temple, known for its stunning Zen garden.
Next, visitors will enjoy the tranquility of the Arashiyama bamboo grove.
The tour then proceeds to the Kinkakuji, or Golden Pavilion, a Zen temple with a stunning golden pavilion set against a backdrop of lush gardens.
Finally, the group will visit the Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its architectural beauty and historical significance.
Transportation and Lunch
During the tour, participants travel between the various sites by train, with the guide assisting in navigating the public transportation system. Lunch is not included in the tour price, but the guide will recommend and help participants select a local restaurant for their meal. The following table outlines the inclusions and costs for the tour:
Item | Cost |
---|---|
English Speaking Guide | Included |
Train Transportation | Not Covered |
Tenryu-ji Temple Garden | 500 yen |
Garden and Main Hall | 800 yen |
Participant Pays Guide’s Admission | Included |
Participants are responsible for the cost of their own meals and train travel during the tour.
Additional Details
Along With the transportation and meal arrangements, the Kyoto Private Full Day Classic Sightseeing Tour offers several other noteworthy details.
The tour is priced at $99.08 per person and includes an English-speaking guide. Admission fees for Tenryū-ji Temple and its gardens are covered, though participants are responsible for paying the guide’s admission.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and no seating is provided for infants. Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, and there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start.
The guide will be at the meeting point holding a sushi illustration sign.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Tips Expected for the Guide?
Tips are generally expected for tour guides in Japan, though the specific expectations may vary. It’s recommended to tip the guide for good service, typically around 10-15% of the tour cost.
Can Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated for Lunch?
The tour can accommodate dietary restrictions for lunch, but participants must notify the tour operator in advance. Special meal requests may incur an additional cost and availability is subject to the local restaurant’s offerings.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
The maximum group size for this private tour is not explicitly stated, but it indicates that only your group will participate. Therefore, the group size can vary depending on the number of people in your private party.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Our Preferences?
The tour can be customized to the participants’ preferences. As a private tour, the itinerary and pace can be adjusted to suit the group’s interests and needs. This allows for a personalized sightseeing experience.
Is There a Flexible Start Time Available?
The tour offers some flexibility with the start time. While the default start time is 10:00 am, the tour provider may accommodate requests for an earlier or later start, subject to availability and guide scheduling.
The Sum Up
This private Kyoto sightseeing tour offers an immersive experience exploring the city’s iconic landmarks. With an English-speaking guide, travelers will discover the serene Tenryu-ji Temple, the stunning Kinkakuji, and the tranquil Arashiyama bamboo grove. The tour includes train travel and requires moderate physical fitness, making it perfect for active individuals seeking to uncover Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage.
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