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Activity Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto Autumn Foliage Private Car Tour Temples and Gardens

6 hours Free cancellation Private tour
Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Kyoto Autumn Foliage Private Car Tour Temples and Gardens

About this activity

Experience the stunning autumn foliage of Kyoto with a private tour tailored to the season. Guided by an expert, you’ll visit renowned temples and gardens, handpicked to showcase the vibrant colors at their peak. In early November, explore serene sites like Enko-ji, transitioning to iconic spots such as Eikando and the bamboo grove in Arashiyama during mid-to-late November. Even in early December, witness the beauty of fallen leaves at temples like Komyo-ji. Enjoy insightful commentary on Kyoto’s rich culture and history while avoiding crowded areas for a more intimate experience.

  • Private 6-hour tour of Kyoto's autumn foliage highlights
  • Tailored itinerary based on seasonal changes for optimal views
  • Visit famous temples and tranquil gardens with expert guidance
  • Enjoy insights into Kyoto’s culture, history, and traditions
Nature and Wildlife Tours Half-day Tours Bus Tours Private and Luxury Private Sightseeing Tours Cultural Tours Seasonal Car Tours

At a glance

Duration
6 hours
Confirmation
Instant confirmation
Ticket
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group
Your group only
People per booking
1–5
Guide
English
Operated by
ホプテラス

What is included

Included

  • Included: In-vehicle air conditioning: Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Included: Parking Fees

Not included

  • Not included: Entrance fees for temples and gardens are not included in the tour price. Guests are kindly requested to pay these fees directly at each site for themselves and for the guide.
  • Not included: Meals are not included. Your guide will be happy to recommend local restaurants or arrange a stop according to your preferences and dietary needs. Guests are responsible for their own lunch expenses.

Itinerary

  1. Eikando Zenrinji Temple

    30 min

    Often called the “Temple of Autumn Leaves,” Eikando is one of Kyoto’s most celebrated spots for fall foliage. Visitors can stroll through its expansive temple grounds, admire the reflection of crimson maple trees on the pond, and enjoy breathtaking views from the hillside pagoda. The temple’s rich history, dating back to the Heian period, adds cultural depth to the vibrant seasonal scenery.

  2. Nanzen-ji Temple

    30 min Admission not included

    One of Kyoto’s most important Zen temples, Nanzen-ji is especially striking in autumn when its massive Sanmon gate is surrounded by fiery maple leaves. Guests can walk through the spacious temple grounds, discover the famous red-brick aqueduct, and enjoy the peaceful harmony of nature and architecture.

  3. Shisendo Temple

    30 min Admission not included

    A hidden gem in northern Kyoto, Shisendo features an intimate garden framed by glowing maple trees. Guests can enjoy the tranquility of this poet’s hermitage, where the quiet atmosphere and seasonal beauty create a perfect retreat from the city’s crowds.

  4. Enkoji Temple

    30 min Admission not included

    Famous for its “framed view” of a vibrant autumn garden, Enko-ji combines colorful maples with moss-covered grounds. Visitors can sit on the veranda to admire the picture-like scenery or climb the hillside behind the temple for panoramic views of Kyoto.

  5. Kinkakuji Temple

    30 min Admission not included

    Kyoto’s most iconic landmark, Kinkaku-ji dazzles with its golden pavilion reflected in a serene pond. In autumn, the temple is surrounded by brilliant red and orange maple leaves, creating a striking contrast with the shimmering gold and lush evergreens. Guests can stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens and capture unforgettable photographs of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

  6. Togetsukyo Bridge

    30 min Admission not included

    Spanning the Katsura River, Togetsukyo Bridge offers sweeping views of the Arashiyama mountains blanketed in autumn colors. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk across the bridge, admire the reflection of crimson leaves on the water, and experience one of Kyoto’s most beloved seasonal landscapes.

  7. Tenryu-ji Temple

    30 min Admission not included

    A UNESCO World Heritage site, Tenryu-ji is renowned for its landscaped garden framed by brilliant autumn colors and the Arashiyama mountains. After exploring the temple, visitors can stroll through the nearby bamboo grove, one of Kyoto’s most iconic and photogenic landscapes.

  8. To-ji Temple

    30 min Admission not included

    Famous for its towering five-story pagoda, the tallest in Japan, To-ji offers a spectacular backdrop of autumn foliage. Visitors can stroll through spacious temple grounds where vibrant red and yellow leaves frame historic wooden halls and tranquil ponds. In the evening, the temple is also renowned for seasonal light-ups, creating a magical atmosphere during Kyoto’s autumn nights.

Meeting point and pickup

The operator picks every participant up from their accommodation or the points below.

Pickup points

  • Hananoie
  • Hanazono Kaikan
  • Hotel Chronos Kyoto
  • Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Kyoto
  • Shiki Resort Kyoto Kamogawaso
  • Rakucho Ryokan
  • insomnia KYOTO OIKE
  • Dusit Thani Kyoto
  • Togetsutei
  • hotel Monday Kyoto Marutamachi
  • Hoshinoya Kyoto
  • Arashiyama BENKEI

and 585 more pickup points

Meeting Point Information:

Hotel pick-up: Please wait in the hotel lobby at the scheduled start time. Your guide/driver will meet you there.

Hotels without a driveway: If your accommodation does not have a driveway or car entrance, we may meet on the street directly in front of the hotel entrance.

Kyoto Station pick-up: The meeting point is at the Kyoto Station "General Boarding/Drop-off Area" . Please wait there at the scheduled start time.

Google Maps location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/z4HjxwJUr9v25zoX8

Airbnb/guesthouse stays: Please provide the exact address in advance so that we can confirm the most convenient meeting point nearby.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel You get back
At least one day before 100%
Less than a day before 0%
  • The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.

Good to know

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

  • Public transportation options are available nearby

  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Activities, prices and reviews are from Viator. Booking and payment happen on Viator; Vacantier may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Kyoto Autumn Foliage Private Car Tour Temples and Gardens

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