Traveling to Kyoto often means navigating bustling temples, crowded streets, and popular sights. But what if you could experience a more intimate and personalized side of this historic city? That’s exactly what the “Kyoto: ALL Included Customized Sightseeing Tour with Local” offers. This three-hour private adventure promises a tailored exploration of Kyoto’s lesser-known spots, guided by passionate locals who know how to make your day memorable.
What makes this offering stand out? For starters, it combines the flexibility of a custom itinerary with the convenience of all-inclusive costs—covering transport, admission fees, refreshments, and even a photo service. Plus, the small-group or private setting ensures you avoid the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience. We’re particularly impressed by the emphasis on authentic, serene locations and the opportunity to shape the tour around your interests. The possible downside? The three-hour length might feel a bit brief for those looking to cover extensive ground. Still, this experience is ideal for travelers seeking a focused, personalized taste of Kyoto without the hassle of large group tours.
This tour is best suited for visitors who want a flexible, intimate way to explore Kyoto’s quieter, more authentic corners. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or families wanting a special day with a knowledgeable local in a relaxed setting. If you’re craving a customized adventure that respects your pace and preferences, this tour could be just the thing.
- Good To Know
- A Closer Look at the Experience
- The Itinerary Breakdown
- The Viewpoints and Sightseeing
- The Transportation and Timing
- Included and Not Included
- The Personal Touch
- Guides and Multilingual Support
- Accessibility and Practicalities
- Why Choose This Tour?
- The Sum Up
- FAQ
- More Tours in Kyoto
- More Tour Reviews in Kyoto
- Looking for something different? Other Kyoto activities we've written about
Good To Know

- Personalized Experience: Tailored to your interests, with input from passionate local guides.
- All-Inclusive Pricing: No hidden fees—covering transport, admissions, refreshments, and photos.
- Hidden Gems Focus: Avoid tourist crowds and visit serene, lesser-known spots.
- Flexible Itinerary: Create a unique journey, sharing your bucket list or specific interests.
- Short but Sweet: 3 hours of focused sightseeing—perfect for a quick, meaningful visit.
- Accessibility & Convenience: Wheelchair accessible, includes transportation, and starts/end at a central location.
A Closer Look at the Experience

Find more activities and experiences we've covered in Kyoto.
The Itinerary Breakdown
This tour is designed to be flexible, with stops arranged based on your preferences, but the process typically includes three key locations or experiences. The starting point is conveniently located in front of Edion, on the southeast side of the Shijo Kawaramachi intersection, making it easy to find and access. From there, your local guide will take you on a journey through Kyoto’s quieter corners.
One of the highlights? A black cab ride (about 20 minutes) that adds a touch of Japanese style and comfort. This isn’t just transportation—it’s part of the experience, giving you a taste of Kyoto’s unique charm. Reviewers mention that these rides are smooth and efficient, helping you cover more ground comfortably.
The Viewpoints and Sightseeing
Two carefully selected viewpoints are the focus of this tour, each offering serene vistas away from the tourist crowds. The first viewpoint includes a guided tour, allowing you to learn about the scenery and history while soaking in peaceful views. The second break offers time for a leisurely visit or photo-taking, helping you create lasting memories.
Expect about 30 minutes at each viewpoint, giving enough time to relax, snap photos, and ask questions. Reviewers have praised the guide’s ability to keep the experience engaging without rushing, stating, “The views were stunning, and the guide shared stories that made the scenery even more meaningful.”
The Transportation and Timing
The tour’s transportation is handled seamlessly with the use of the black cabs, which are well-maintained and comfortable. Just enough time is allocated for each ride (around 20 minutes), ensuring you’re not exhausted but still feeling like you’re exploring more than just walking distances.
Following the viewpoints, a 20-minute train ride takes you to another scenic or culturally significant area, rounding out the short but rich itinerary. The entire experience lasts approximately three hours, making it ideal for those with limited time but a desire for depth over breadth.
More Great Tours NearbyIncluded and Not Included
The price of $150 per person covers a lot of what matters—refreshments at cafes, the transportation costs, admission fees to sights, and the guide’s time and expertise. The inclusion of a photo service is a thoughtful touch, allowing you to leave with high-quality souvenirs.
However, it’s worth noting that full meals aren’t included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan for a meal afterward. Personal expenses, souvenirs, or additional snacks are also not covered, so budget accordingly.
- Authentic Seasonal Japanese Home Cooking Lesson With a Charming Local in Kyoto
- Full-Day Sightseeing to Kyoto Highlights
- Essence of Kyoto Enhance Your Stay in Japan
- (Private)Local Home Visit Tea Ceremony With Tea Teacher
- Kyoto Nishiki Market Tour With 7 Course Lunch
- Kyoto Arashiyama & Sagano Bamboo Private Tour With Government-Licensed Guide
The Personal Touch
One standout aspect is the opportunity to personalize your tour. Whether you want to see specific temples, explore local cuisine, or focus on peaceful scenery, your guide will craft the experience around your desires. The tour is open to sharing your bucket list or interests, resulting in a truly bespoke adventure.
Guides and Multilingual Support
SunnySight Japan provides guides fluent in English, Chinese, and French. If you prefer a guide speaking French or Chinese, a reservation must be made at least two days in advance. Guests mention guides like Yuki or Haru, who are passionate and knowledgeable, often sharing stories that deepen their appreciation of Kyoto’s hidden corners.
Accessibility and Practicalities
This tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs. It also includes convenient meeting points and a short duration, perfect for those who prefer a less physically demanding sightseeing experience. Travelers are advised to wear comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and bring a camera and water to stay comfortable during the tour.
Why Choose This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who:
- Want a customized, intimate sightseeing experience in Kyoto
- Prefer to visit hidden or peaceful spots rather than crowded tourist sites
- Appreciate the convenience of an all-inclusive, private tour
- Have limited time but want a meaningful and personal adventure
- Want the flexibility to incorporate their interests or bucket-list items
If you’re after a tailored, relaxed introduction to Kyoto’s quieter side, this tour offers excellent value. It balances insider access with comfort, making it perfect for those who enjoy small-group or private experiences.
The Sum Up

For travelers seeking a more authentic and peaceful way to explore Kyoto, the “ALL Included Customized Sightseeing Tour with Local” ticks many boxes. Its private, personalized approach allows you to focus on what interests you most, while its all-inclusive setup removes the stress of managing logistics. The scenic viewpoints, comfortable rides, and knowledgeable guides make it a compelling choice for those short on time but eager for quality.
While three hours might seem brief, the flexibility and curated stops mean you’ll leave with a richer understanding of Kyoto’s lesser-known sides—plus plenty of beautiful photos and memories. Perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers wanting a touch of exclusivity, it’s a smart way to enjoy a personalized slice of Kyoto.
FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs. However, some stops involve gentle walking or moving between locations.
How long does the tour last?
The experience runs for approximately 3 hours, with a flexible start time depending on availability.
What is included in the price?
The fee covers guide fees, transportation via black cabs, admission fees to sights, refreshments at cafes, and a photo service to capture your memories.
Are meals included?
No, full meals are not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to eat afterward.
Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. Share your interests or bucket list with your guide, and they will tailor the experience to suit your preferences.
Is this tour suitable for children or babies?
While not explicitly stated, the short duration and private nature make it manageable for families with children, but keep in mind the need for comfortable shoes and minimal walking.
What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Chinese, and French. If you need a French or Chinese guide, reserve at least two days in advance.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins in front of Edion, near the Shijo Kawaramachi intersection, and returns to the same meeting point.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended for a comfortable experience.
This tour offers a convenient yet intimate way to experience Kyoto’s quieter, beautiful side. Whether you’re after serene temples, scenic views, or a personalized adventure, it’s a solid choice for a memorable day in Japan’s historic heart.
You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours NearbyMore Tours in Kyoto
- Katsuo-ji, Kyoto Kiyomizu-dera & Arashiyama Tour w/tea opt.
- Kyoto’s Soul: Gion & Kiyomizudera Historical Walking Tour
- Kyoto Sakura Experience English Full Day Sightseeing Tour
- From Kyoto Japanese Sword and Himeji Castle Bus Tour
- Kyoto: Guided Walking Tour with Fushimi Inari Shrine
- Kyoto Fushimi-Inari Night Walking Tour
More Tour Reviews in Kyoto
- Japanese dried-type Sweets ”Ohigashi” making
- Katsuo-ji, Kyoto Kiyomizu-dera & Arashiyama Tour w/tea opt.
- Kyoto: Tea Ceremony in a 100-Year-Old Fan Shop
- Kyoto’s Soul: Gion & Kiyomizudera Historical Walking Tour
- Kyoto Sakura Experience English Full Day Sightseeing Tour
- From Kyoto Japanese Sword and Himeji Castle Bus Tour
Looking for something different? Other Kyoto activities we've written about
- Japanese dried-type Sweets ”Ohigashi” making
- Kyoto: ALL Included Customized Sightseeing Tour with Local
- From Osaka/Kyoto: Shirakawa-go and Gokayama Day Tour
- Katsuo-ji, Kyoto Kiyomizu-dera & Arashiyama Tour w/tea opt.
- Kyoto: Tea Ceremony in a 100-Year-Old Fan Shop
- Kyoto’s Soul: Gion & Kiyomizudera Historical Walking Tour
- From Osaka/Kyoto: Kyoto Private Day Trip with Pickup
- Kyoto Sakura Experience English Full Day Sightseeing Tour
- From Kyoto Japanese Sword and Himeji Castle Bus Tour
- Kyoto: Experience the UNESCO-protected art of gold leaf
- Kyoto: Kinsai Gold Craft and Tsutsugaki Technique Experience
- Kyoto: Guided Walking Tour with Fushimi Inari Shrine
