Matcha and Byodoin Kyoto Private Tour

Kyoto, Japan
Duration8h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesChinese, Japanese, English
Private tourOnly your group will participate
Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below

Overview

Uji is a relaxed and culturally rich day trip close to Kyoto, known for matcha, riverside scenery, historic temples, and a calmer atmosphere than central Kyoto. It is ideal for travelers who want a slower day with tea culture, light walking, and flexible private transport.

This is a self-guided private car day trip. Your driver handles transport from your Kyoto hotel to Uji and between practical pickup points, while you explore independently.

The route can be kept very relaxed or paired with additional nearby areas, depending on guest interest and pacing.

Options

HiAce Van (Group of 6-9 Pax)

Pickup included

Uji Private Vehicle Day Trip: Matcha, Byodoin and Riverside Kyoto

Pickup included

What's included

  • Kyoto accommodation pickup and drop-off
  • Professional driver
  • Private green-plate vehicle (Commercially Licensed)
  • Formal Guiding
  • Meals and drinks

What to expect

  1. Byodoin Temple
    1h 30m
    Travelers can visit Uji’s most famous temple, known for the Phoenix Hall and its reflection pond. Guests explore independently and may also visit the museum if they wish.
  2. Uji River
    45m
    Travelers can enjoy a relaxed riverside walk, take photos, and experience Uji’s slower atmosphere. This is a good light walking stop between temple and tea areas.
  3. Byodoin Omotesando
    1h
    Travelers can walk along Uji’s tea shop street, browse matcha products, sweets, and cafes, and choose their own tea break or lunch. This is one of the main reasons travelers visit Uji.
  4. Ujigami Shrine
    45m
    Travelers can visit a quiet shrine area near the river, often paired with Byodoin and the riverside walk. It is a calm cultural stop with lighter crowds.
  5. Kyoto
    1h
    If time allows, travelers may add a short final stop on the way back to Kyoto, such as Fushimi or another nearby area. This depends on traffic and the pace of the Uji visit.

Meeting and pickup

Pickup details

After your booking is confirmed, we will review your pickup location, travel date, group size, and any special requests such as child seats or luggage. Before the service date, your driver will create a WhatsApp group with the guest or lead traveler so that communication is clear and easy.

On the day of travel, your driver will arrive at the pickup point and send a message in the WhatsApp group. The driver will also upload a photo of the vehicle or pickup location so you can identify them easily. For hotel pickups, the driver will usually wait near the hotel entrance or another safe pickup point confirmed in advance.

After greeting you, the driver will confirm the day’s basic route and timing before departure. This is a private vehicle service, so the route can be adjusted within the booked time depending on traffic, weather, opening hours, and your preferences. The driver will handle transport between the planned stops, while you explore each location independently.

During the trip, the driver will coordinate pickup points by WhatsApp, especially in areas where vehicles cannot wait directly in front of attractions. The route is usually planned to be direct and efficient, but scenic roads or photo stops may be included when practical and when time allows.

At the end of the day, your driver will take you back to your hotel or the agreed drop-off point. Before drop-off, please check that you have all personal belongings, including phones, bags, souvenirs, and child items.

Additional information

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
From
60,000.00 JPY per group
Check availability & book
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • Instant confirmation
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
More activities in Kyoto
From
60,000.00 JPY per group
Check availability