Kyoto Small Group Tour

📍Explore “Miketsukuni,” Japan’s ancient food capital and source of Imperial cuisine.
📍 Private tour of Kyoto's historical and cultural highlights, including Kinkaku-ji and Kiyomizu-dera.
📍 Helicopter experience (optional), direct flight from Kyoto to Awaji Island
📍 Participate in unique experiences, including fish market auctions, traditional salt making, and farm picking.

Meeting PointKyoto
PriceHKD 13,880 Per Person
Included
Self-organized group of 2 or more people
Local driver
Accompanied by a professional guide throughout the tour
Private transportation
Luxury hotel accommodation (Kyoto & Awaji Island)
Daily Breakfast
Lunch and dinner (as listed in the itinerary, please refer to the details provided in the itinerary for accuracy).
Activities and experiences listed in the itinerary.
All hotels throughout the trip will be based on twin sharing for 2 people.
All hotel accommodations included in the itinerary.
Excludes
The airfare is not included
Driver and guide gratuities
Personal expenses
Insurance
Customs duties for inbound and outbound luggage
Any other expenses not mentioned.

Hotel Utano Kyoto Besho

– Cost of renting a TOYOTA ALPHARD or HIACE with driver for 8 hours
– Overseas green plate tour buses or Toyota Alphard 7-seater, Hiace 10-seater / 14-seater (vehicle models are for reference only).
– Please provide your overseas contact information as well as contact information for at least one other person traveling with you. If you plan to use a local mobile phone number while abroad, please provide that number as well.
– Please try to wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
– The tour guide may make temporary adjustments to the itinerary's sightseeing order based on factors such as weather, schedule, and transportation. The guide will seek the consent of the guests before making any changes.
– Due to unforeseen circumstances such as transportation issues, weather conditions, or other force majeure events, any resulting delays, changes in the travel route, or cancellation of itinerary or attractions, the company will not be held responsible, and refunds will not be provided. We appreciate your understanding in this matter.
– Our company is not responsible for any delays in the actual end time of the itinerary due to road congestion on Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays, or peak travel periods such as Golden Week or summer vacation. We also do not assume responsibility for any losses or subsequent expenses incurred by guests as a result of unavoidable delays in the return time due to unforeseen circumstances.
– No refunds or cancellations will be accepted due to suboptimal viewing conditions at attractions caused by inclement weather.
– No refunds will be provided if a guest is unable to join the tour on the specified date due to their own personal reasons.
– Travelers are responsible for their own health and well-being. They should ensure they are physically able to participate in the tour and understand that they assume full responsibility for any personal accidents or adverse consequences.
– Travelers should exercise caution and be mindful of their personal and property safety during the tour and any self-arranged activities. Any personal or property losses incurred by travelers due to their own actions or the actions of third-party providers are the sole responsibility of the travelers. If such losses result in damages to the travel agency, the travelers will be held liable for compensation.
– Before departure, it is necessary to purchase travel insurance that includes coverage for COVID-19, as required by the entry policies of Japan.
– If a traveler decides to split from the group or deviate from the planned itinerary without authorization, they are not entitled to request any refunds from the travel agency. If the travel agency incurs any losses as a result, they have the right to seek compensation from the traveler.
– Please read the important clauses of this agreement carefully, as they pertain to the rights and interests of the traveler. By confirming, you acknowledge that you have fully read, understood, and accepted all the terms and conditions of this contract before using our services.
– As part of our service, we assist in arranging recommended unique experiences and food recommendations during the itinerary. However, please note that if a recommended establishment is closed or unavailable due to reasons such as business hours or capacity limitations, which are beyond our control, our company cannot be held responsible. We appreciate your understanding in this matter.
– Please note that in some cases, attractions may be closed or undergoing maintenance without prior notice. We appreciate your understanding in such situations. The hotels listed in the itinerary are commonly used for this tour. However, if a particular hotel is closed or fully booked, we will arrange accommodation in a hotel of similar quality. Please be aware of this possibility.
– Please make sure to gather at the designated time and location. Kindly avoid being late. If you are unable to participate in the itinerary due to personal reasons during the assembly or throughout the trip, we regret to inform you that no refunds or changes can be made. If you choose to catch up with the group by taking a taxi or incur accommodation expenses, we apologize that we cannot cover those costs. We appreciate your understanding.
– If meals have been pre-arranged by our company at designated restaurants, refunds will not be provided if tour participants choose not to dine together. It will be considered an automatic forfeiture of the meal.
– During peak travel seasons such as summer holidays, cherry blossom season, and autumn foliage, popular attractions and amusement parks tend to be crowded. In such cases, our company may make necessary adjustments to the itinerary and meals based on actual traffic and sightseeing conditions, in order to ensure the smooth visitation of all destinations. We kindly request the cooperation of our guests in this matter.
– Our bus service operates until 8:00 PM each day. However, if there is a delay in the group's departure from a particular attraction due to the late arrival of guests, resulting in the need for an extended bus service, according to Japanese regulations, a fee of 10,000 Japanese yen per hour will be charged to cover the extension costs for the driver. This additional fee will be the responsibility of the guests to bear.
– In order to ensure the safety of travelers, this tour does not accept pregnant women or individuals aged 80 and above without accompanying children or direct relatives. For participants aged 65 and above, as well as those with specific medical conditions or medical history, it is essential to inform the travel agency before registration. Such participants will be required to sign a liability waiver, have a companion accompany them, and purchase accident insurance that includes overseas emergency assistance. Your cooperation in this matter is appreciated.
– If there are changes to the meeting time and place for your itinerary, we will contact you via WhatsApp, WeChat, Line, or other messaging services. Please keep an eye out for updates.

Related Itineraries

1

Day 1 - Kyoto Historical and Cultural Exploration


Time: 13:00 – 16:30
Transportation: Private vehicle

Kyoto, as Japan's capital for over a thousand years, is a place where deep history, religion, and tradition converge. Today's tour includes:
📍 Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) – Known for its magnificent architecture adorned with gold leaf.
📍 Kiyomizu-dera (清水寺) – A historic temple overlooking Kyoto, allowing you to experience the spirituality and cultural beauty of the ancient capital.

🏨 Accommodation: Hotel Utano Kyoto Besho (Check-in from 17:00)
Hotel Utano Kyoto offers an intimate and tranquil escape with only 10 rooms, each featuring its own private onsen bath. The hotel blends traditional Japanese design such as Shoin and Sukiya-style architecture with contemporary elements. Enjoy exquisite dining in a stunning Japanese garden setting, with a focus on fresh seafood from Awaji Island and locally sourced ingredients. The hotel also features a peaceful 1,000-square-meter Japanese garden designed by renowned landscape architect Mirei Shigemori, providing a serene environment far from noise.

2

Day 2 - Exploring Kyoto


Time: 09:30 – 14:00
Transportation: Private vehicle

Today we continue to explore Kyoto's historical and cultural heritage, visiting:
📍 Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine – A Kyoto symbol famous for its thousands of red torii gates.
📍 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove – Immerse yourself in the serene bamboo forest and experience Kyoto's tranquil atmosphere.
📍 Nijo Castle – An important historical site of the Tokugawa shogunate in Japan.

🚁 Helicopter Experience (Optional Activity)
Route: Kyoto ➝ Awaji Island New Awaji Hotel
Price: Additional charges apply FROM JPY 400,000
Overlook the magnificent scenery of Kyoto from the air and land at the Awaji Island New Awaji Hotel to experience a relaxing island lifestyle.

🏨 Accommodation: New Awaji Hotel
🌊 Boasting an unobstructed ocean view, the rooms are equipped with private open-air hot springs, offering exclusive quiet relaxation time.

🍽 Exclusive Gourmet Experience: Premium Private Dinner
Created by top chefs and pastry chefs who have represented Japan in world culinary competitions (such as the Bocuse d'Or and the World Pastry Cup), this is a carefully crafted limited-edition private dinner, available to only one group of guests per day.

3

Day 3 - Unique Experiences on Awaji Island.


Today, delve into the local culture and traditional experiences on Awaji Island:

📍 Fish Market Auction Experience.
Visit the Awaji Island fish market that supplies Tokyo's Toyosu Market and Michelin-starred restaurants. Get a close-up feel for the local fishing culture and participate in a unique auction process.

📍 Salt Making Experience.
Head to the west coast of Awaji Island to personally experience the Miketsukuni salt-making method, learn traditional hand-made salt techniques, and relive historical craftsmanship.

4

Day 4 - Awaji Island Agriculture and Traditional Crafts.


📍 Onion Picking Experience.
Visit Hamada Farm in the Mihara Plain of Awaji Island to personally pick the locally renowned Awaji Island onions and enjoy the joy of the rural harvest.

📍 Handmade Somen Noodle Experience.
Visit a traditional somen noodle workshop founded in Keio元年 (1865), learn handmade noodle making techniques, and experience the spirit of craftsmanship and traditional skills.



1

Day 1 - Kyoto Historical and Cultural Exploration


Time: 13:00 – 16:30
Transportation: Private vehicle

Kyoto, as Japan's capital for over a thousand years, is a place where deep history, religion, and tradition converge. Today's tour includes:
📍 Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) – Known for its magnificent architecture adorned with gold leaf.
📍 Kiyomizu-dera (清水寺) – A historic temple overlooking Kyoto, allowing you to experience the spirituality and cultural beauty of the ancient capital.

🏨 Accommodation: Hotel Utano Kyoto Besho (Check-in from 17:00)
Hotel Utano Kyoto offers an intimate and tranquil escape with only 10 rooms, each featuring its own private onsen bath. The hotel blends traditional Japanese design such as Shoin and Sukiya-style architecture with contemporary elements. Enjoy exquisite dining in a stunning Japanese garden setting, with a focus on fresh seafood from Awaji Island and locally sourced ingredients. The hotel also features a peaceful 1,000-square-meter Japanese garden designed by renowned landscape architect Mirei Shigemori, providing a serene environment far from noise.

2

Day 2 - Exploring Kyoto


Time: 09:30 – 14:00
Transportation: Private vehicle

Today we continue to explore Kyoto's historical and cultural heritage, visiting:
📍 Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine – A Kyoto symbol famous for its thousands of red torii gates.
📍 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove – Immerse yourself in the serene bamboo forest and experience Kyoto's tranquil atmosphere.
📍 Nijo Castle – An important historical site of the Tokugawa shogunate in Japan.

🚁 Helicopter Experience (Optional Activity)
Route: Kyoto ➝ Awaji Island New Awaji Hotel
Price: Additional charges apply FROM JPY 400,000
Overlook the magnificent scenery of Kyoto from the air and land at the Awaji Island New Awaji Hotel to experience a relaxing island lifestyle.

🏨 Accommodation: New Awaji Hotel
🌊 Boasting an unobstructed ocean view, the rooms are equipped with private open-air hot springs, offering exclusive quiet relaxation time.

🍽 Exclusive Gourmet Experience: Premium Private Dinner
Created by top chefs and pastry chefs who have represented Japan in world culinary competitions (such as the Bocuse d'Or and the World Pastry Cup), this is a carefully crafted limited-edition private dinner, available to only one group of guests per day.

3

Day 3 - Unique Experiences on Awaji Island.


Today, delve into the local culture and traditional experiences on Awaji Island:

📍 Fish Market Auction Experience.
Visit the Awaji Island fish market that supplies Tokyo's Toyosu Market and Michelin-starred restaurants. Get a close-up feel for the local fishing culture and participate in a unique auction process.

📍 Salt Making Experience.
Head to the west coast of Awaji Island to personally experience the Miketsukuni salt-making method, learn traditional hand-made salt techniques, and relive historical craftsmanship.

4

Day 4 - Awaji Island Agriculture and Traditional Crafts.


📍 Onion Picking Experience.
Visit Hamada Farm in the Mihara Plain of Awaji Island to personally pick the locally renowned Awaji Island onions and enjoy the joy of the rural harvest.

📍 Handmade Somen Noodle Experience.
Visit a traditional somen noodle workshop founded in Keio元年 (1865), learn handmade noodle making techniques, and experience the spirit of craftsmanship and traditional skills.

This tour is a fantastic opportunity to deeply experience the culinary culture and traditions of the Japanese Imperial Family! The four-day, three-night Awaji Island and Kyoto tour, meticulously designed by Travel Mama, is filled with luxurious and unique elements in its itinerary, accommodations, and culinary experiences.

Trip Highlights:

  1. Clear theme, cultural depth
    With "Imperial Chef" as its theme, the itinerary perfectly blends Japanese imperial cuisine with local traditions. From the seafood market and sweet onion farm on Awaji Island to the ancient castles and shrines of Kyoto, the essence of Japanese food and culture is showcased everywhere.
  2. Luxury experience
    • HotelStay at the "Kyoto Bessou Itami Hotel" and the "Awaji Island New Hotel", both of which are very distinctive luxury hotels. Each room also has a private hot spring bath, giving people a royal experience.
    • TransportationOffering private car pick-up and drop-off, and even a helicopter option (starting from 400,000 yen), it truly pushes the luxury experience to the extreme.
    • CUISINEDinner was prepared by an internationally renowned chef, with ingredients sourced from Tokyo's Tsukiji Market and the Michelin-starred Awaji Island Fish Market, ensuring impeccable quality.
  3. In-depth cultural experience
    • Kyoto's Kinkaku-ji, Kiyomizu-dera, Fushimi Inari-taisha, and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, among other attractions, showcase Japan's thousand-year history and natural beauty.
    • Awaji Island's handmade salt-making workshops, somen noodle workshops, and onion-picking experiences allow visitors to truly immerse themselves in local life and feel the charm of traditional Japanese crafts.
  4. thoughtful service
    Travel Mama's small group tours (even as few as two people) and professional guides and private drivers ensure a flexible and comfortable journey. They also discuss itinerary adjustments with travelers in case of weather or traffic issues, providing truly attentive service.

Cost Analysis:

Starting from HK$13,880 per person, this price includes luxury accommodations, most meals, a professional tour guide, and private transportation. While not cheap compared to large group tours, it's truly worthwhile considering the uniqueness, luxury, and small group format of the itinerary. Especially for travelers seeking in-depth cultural experiences and high-quality travel, this itinerary offers value far exceeding that of typical group tours.

Suitable for:

  • Travelers who love Japanese culture and food
  • For those seeking a luxurious and personalized travel experience
  • Want to enjoy a unique and unforgettable trip with family and friends?

suggestion:

If you are interested in participating, it is recommended to check the Travel Mama website for details and register as soon as possible, as spots for small group tours are usually limited. Also, if you would like to experience the helicopter option, remember to set aside an additional budget (starting from 400,000 yen).

This four-day, three-night "Imperial Chef" themed itinerary is a truly unique opportunity, allowing travelers to experience the charm of Japan from all angles, from imperial cuisine and cultural heritage to natural scenery. Whether you're looking to relax or seek a more in-depth travel experience, this itinerary is definitely worth considering!

京都小包團 - Travel Mama 小包團
History of Kyoto
Hotel Utano Kyoto Besho
Exploring Kyoto
New Awaji Hotel Amahara
Yura Fishing Port