Kyoto & Uji Private Discovery | Kifune, Kiyomizu & Matcha Heritage (Private Car)

Recommended by 97% of travelers

Badge of Excellence

Kyoto

+7

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10h

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Max People: 4–9 pax

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Pickup: Hotel in Osaka/Kyoto City

This private charter-car tour operates from 4 guests and up to 9 guests (Osaka/Kyoto hotel pick-up & drop-off).

English guide not included, only professional Japanese-speaking driver with limited English. English support via chat if needed.

Confirmation: We will send you final confirmation and driver details 24-48 hours before departure.

Cancellation Conditions：Free cancellation ≧ 7 days; 50% charge for 6–3 days; 100% charge < 3 days.

Overview

Highlights

Itinerary Details

Important Information

Overview

Journey beyond the standard tourist trails on this premium private tour. Your day begins with a breath of fresh air at the mystical Kifune Shrine, nestled in the forested mountains north of Kyoto. Known for its iconic red lantern stairs and water-deity history, it offers a serene start away from the city crowds.

Then immerse your self in the heart of old Kyoto at Kiyomizu-dera, the famous wooden temple offering panoramic city views. Following the temple visit, enjoy the freedom of a leisurely lunch in the historic Sannenzaka/Ninenzaka streets, where preserved Edo-period buildings house charming local eateries and artisan shops.

Head south to the tranquil town of Uji, the cradle of Japanese green tea. Explore the breathtaking Byodoin Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site featured on the 10-yen coin and browse the local matcha boutiques. With private door-to-door transport, discoveries of layers of Kyoto's spiritual and culinary heritage are guaranteed.

Our highlights are

Key highlights

Discover the mystical Kifune Shrine, famous for its red lantern-lined path and tranquil riverside setting deep in the mountains — a sanctuary of nature and spirituality.

Visit the UNESCO-listed Kiyomizu-dera Temple, snapping panoramic views from its grand wooden terrace standing 13 meters above the hillside.

Enjoy a "Foodie" break in old Kyoto by self-selecting lunch in the historic Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka area.

Explore Byodo-in Temple — featured on Japan’s 10-yen coin — and Uji’s tea street, where the aroma of matcha fills the peaceful riverside town.

Efficiently visit both Kifune Shrine and Uji in one day, avoiding the 2-3 hours transfer on public transport.

What's Included

Private vehicle and driver service (10h)

Fuels, tolls, parking

Hotel Pick-up & Drop-off within Osaka/Kyoto City

Background tour operator support (assist on communication with driver or restaurants)

Admissions

Lunch

Any personal expenses, travel insurance, or tips

Itinerary Details

10h

Kyoto Day Trip from Osaka

Private Transportation

Walk

<em>08:00</em> Depart from Osaka hotel (private car charter pick-up)

08:00 Depart from Osaka hotel (private car charter pick-up)

<em>08:00–10:00</em> Drive to Kyoto Kifune Shrine (approx. 2 hours)

08:00–10:00 Drive to Kyoto Kifune Shrine (approx. 2 hours)

<em>10:00–11:00</em> Visit Kifune Shrine

10:00–11:00 Visit Kifune Shrine

<em>11:00–12:00</em> Transfer to Kiyomizu dera/Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka (approx. 1 hour)

11:00–12:00 Transfer to Kiyomizu dera/Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka (approx. 1 hour)

<em>12:00–14:30</em> Visit Kiyomizu dera/Ninenzaka & Sanenzaka, 【Lunch on your own】

12:00–14:30 Visit Kiyomizu dera/Ninenzaka & Sanenzaka, 【Lunch on your own】

<em>14:30-15:20</em> Transfer to Uji-Byodoin Temple (approx. 45min)

14:30-15:20 Transfer to Uji-Byodoin Temple (approx. 45min)

<em>15:20-17:00</em> Visit Uji-Byodoin Temple & Walk through Uji Matcha Street

15:20-17:00 Visit Uji-Byodoin Temple & Walk through Uji Matcha Street

<em>17:00-18:00</em> Return back to Osaka (approx. 1 hour)

17:00-18:00 Return back to Osaka (approx. 1 hour)

Since there is no guide, you can flexibly adjust your time spent at each site within the 10-hour service window.

Receive a complimentary discovery guide to help you unlock your exploration.

Important Information

This is a transport-only service. Entrance fees, meals, and a tour guide are not included. Driver does not provide sightseeing commentary.

Language: Japanese-speaking driver with limited English. We provide English support via chat if needed.

Pickup/Drop-off: Tokyo City/Osaka City/Kyoto City hotels only. If your hotel is outside the area, please contact us in advance.

Please be ready 10 minutes before pickup time. The vehicle cannot wait for late arrivals.

Traffic on weekends/holidays may affect timing. The itinerary order and stay time may be adjusted for safety and road conditions.

Child safety seat: required for children aged 6 and under (please bring your own or contact us for assistance).

Travel insurance is not included. Please purchase your own insurance in advance.

If your group does not meet minimum participants, you may enjoy the tour with other guests or the tour may be cancelled.

Japan Local Journeys OMAKASE Course

Discover the cultural essence of Kyoto and Uji in one day — from the mystical Kifune Shrine and iconic Kiyomizu-dera to Uji’s serene tea culture and riverside scenery.

Go to order

Kyoto & Uji Private Discovery | Kifune, Kiyomizu & Matcha Heritage (Private Car)

Price:

$151.00

/ Person

Japan Local Journeys OMAKASE Course

Discover the cultural essence of Kyoto and Uji in one day — from the mystical Kifune Shrine and iconic Kiyomizu-dera to Uji’s serene tea culture and riverside scenery.

Go to order

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FAQs

Q1. Are all tours guided by an English-speaking guide?

A: Not all.
At Japan Local Journeys, some tours are guided by professional English-speaking guides, while others are operated as driver-only private transfers.

Our driver-only tours are designed for travelers who prefer privacy and flexibility — you’ll have a private car and driver, while our operation team provides real-time English assistance via WhatsApp.
Please check each product page to see whether an English-speaking guide is included.

Q2. What is a “driver-only private tour”?

Q3. Can the driver speak English?

Q4. Can I add an English-speaking guide to a driver-only tour?

Q5. What type of travelers choose driver-only tours?