Exploring the historic city of Kyoto has never been easier. This private tour offers a hassle-free experience, with convenient pickup and drop-off from Nara or Osaka. Enjoy the city’s rich cultural heritage, as you visit iconic landmarks like Arashiyama, Kinkakuji Temple, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple. With an expert English-speaking driver, private transportation, and inclusive services, this tour promises a memorable and efficient way to discover the beauty of Kyoto. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this private tour is an opportunity to uncover the captivating essence of this remarkable destination.
Good To Know
- This private tour of Kyoto’s top landmarks, including Arashiyama and Kinkakuji Temple, is priced at $671.84 for up to 6 individuals.
- The tour includes private transportation, an English-speaking driver, pickup and drop-off from Nara or Osaka, lunch, and a guide.
- Wheelchair accessibility, stroller access, and infant seats are available, and the tour starts at 8:00 am for maximum activity time.
- Pickup and drop-off locations include major stations in Nara and Osaka, as well as the Osaka International Airport, for a convenient experience.
- While the tour has received mixed customer feedback, the company maintains a commitment to professional behavior and addressing customer concerns.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Kyoto Private Tour offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience, with a price starting from $671.84 per group of up to 6 individuals.
Included in the tour are private transportation, an English-speaking driver, pickup and drop-off, all fees and taxes, lunch, and a guide.
Visitors will explore notable landmarks like Arashiyama, Kinkakuji Temple, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Sanjusangendo Temple, and Ginkakuji Temple, with entrance fees ranging from 240 to 600 Yen.
The tour features free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, making it a convenient and flexible option for travelers.
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Transportation and Accessibility
Pickup points for the Kyoto Private Tour include Nara and Osaka, and travelers must specify their locations accurately.
The tour starts at 8:00 am, ensuring an early start to the day’s activities.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, with stroller access and infant seats available. The surfaces throughout the tour are also wheelchair friendly, allowing for seamless mobility.
This private tour provides the convenience of door-to-door transportation, with an English-speaking driver ensuring a smooth and informative journey to the various temples and landmarks in Kyoto.
Pickup and Drop-off Locations
Travelers can opt for pickup and drop-off service from either Nara or Osaka, depending on their preferences and convenience.
The tour’s start time is set at 8:00 am, allowing ample time to cover the planned itinerary.
Key pickup and drop-off locations include:
- Nara Station
- Namba Station in Osaka
- Umeda Station in Osaka
- Shin-Osaka Station
- Osaka International Airport (Itami Airport)
Guests are encouraged to specify their desired pickup and drop-off points accurately to ensure a smooth and hassle-free start and end to their Kyoto private tour experience.
Customer Feedback and Ratings
Customers have provided a mix of feedback on their experiences with the Kyoto Private Tour. While some praised the knowledgeable driver, Ali, and the enjoyable experiences at various locations, others reported issues with the tour.
| Positive Feedback | Negative Feedback |
|---|---|
| Travelers enjoyed the guidance and recommendations from the driver. | Small vehicle for 5 guests, driver used phone while driving. |
| Highlighted the enjoyable experiences at different sites. | Lack of friendliness, inability to answer questions. |
| – | Refusal to drive to Nishiki market, unprofessional behavior. |
The company has denied the allegations, emphasizing the driver’s professionalism and its commitment to customer satisfaction while protecting staff integrity.
Positive Experiences and Highlights
Although the tour faced some criticism, many customers highlighted the enjoyable experiences at the various locations visited.
Travelers praised the knowledgeable guidance and insightful recommendations provided by the driver, Ali.
The tour was noted for the following highlights:
- Captivating views and serene atmosphere at Arashiyama
- Awe-inspiring architecture and golden pavilion at Kinkakuji Temple
- Breathtaking panorama from the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple
- Mesmerizing rows of statues at the Sanjusangendo Temple
- Tranquil gardens and silver pavilion at the Ginkakuji Temple.
- Private Arrival Transfer From Osaka Itami Airport(Itm) to Central Osaka City
- Osaka Kansai Airport (KIX) to Kyoto – Round-Trip Private Transfer
- Osaka Kansai Airport to Arima-Onsen Resorts-Round-Trip Transfer
- Full-Day Private Guided Tour to Kyoto Temples
- Osaka Airport (Itm) to Osaka City – Round-Trip Private Transfer
- Full-Day Private Guided Tour to Sakai City
Negative Experiences and Complaints
Despite the positive experiences highlighted by some travelers, the Kyoto Private Tour faced criticism from a number of customers.
Issues were reported regarding the small vehicle size for a group of 5, the driver’s use of a phone while driving, and a perceived lack of friendliness and professionalism.
Customers also complained about the driver’s inability to answer questions and refusal to drive to the Nishiki market, alleging mistreatment and unfulfilled tour commitments.
The company denied the allegations, emphasized adherence to policy, and condemned what it deemed as false claims, while defending the driver’s conduct and reiterating its commitment to customer satisfaction.
Company’s Response and Policy
The company denied the allegations of unprofessional behavior, emphasizing its adherence to policy regarding group size.
Highlighting the driver’s professionalism, the company reiterated its commitment to customer satisfaction while protecting staff integrity.
In its response, the company:
- Condemned false claims about the driver’s conduct
- Clarified the vehicle capacity and group size policy
- Reaffirmed its dedication to delivering exceptional tour experiences
- Acknowledged the importance of addressing customer concerns
- Emphasized the company’s high standards for professional behavior
The Sum Up
The Kyoto Private Tour provides a comprehensive sightseeing experience for visitors to the historic city. The tour covers major attractions like Arashiyama, Kinkakuji, Kiyomizu-dera, and Ginkakuji, with an English-speaking driver offering guidance and recommendations.
While some customers reported issues with the vehicle size and the driver’s behavior, the company has defended its policies and emphasized its commitment to customer satisfaction.
Ultimately, the tour offers a convenient and customizable way to explore Kyoto’s iconic sites, though travelers should consider the feedback and select a provider that best meets their needs and expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Tour Group Size Be Increased Beyond 6 Persons?
The tour group size can be increased beyond 6 persons, but it’s recommended to stick to the maximum of 6 to ensure a comfortable and personalized experience. Larger group sizes may require additional vehicles or accommodations.
Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for the Tour?
The tour company doesn’t offer any discounts or special offers for this private tour. Prices start at $671.84 per group (up to 6 people) and may vary based on group size and additional requests.
Can the Start Time of the Tour Be Adjusted Based on Customer Needs?
The start time of the tour can be adjusted based on customer needs. The tour provider is flexible and willing to accommodate requests for an earlier or later start time, within reasonable limits, to better suit the customer’s schedule.
Is the Tour Guide Fluent in Languages Other Than English?
The tour guide is fluent in English. The company doesn’t specify if the guide can speak other languages, so customers should inquire about translation services if needed for their preferred language.
What Is the Company’s Policy on Modifications or Customizations to the Itinerary?
The company allows customizations to the tour itinerary, but any changes must be requested in advance. They’ll work with customers to accommodate their preferences while ensuring the overall experience aligns with the advertised tour details.
The Sum Up
The Kyoto private tour provides a hassle-free and immersive experience for visitors. With convenient pickup and drop-off, an expert English-speaking driver, and visits to iconic landmarks, the tour offers a memorable way to explore Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage. Priced affordably for up to six individuals, the package includes lunch and guide services, making it a well-rounded and value-for-money option for those seeking a personalized Kyoto adventure.
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