Kyoto helicopter tours – tickets, prices, timings

Kyoto is an abode of Japanese traditions, history, and culture, and a one of the favorite destinations for travelers from around the world.

Natural wonders, lush landscapes, and a soothing blend of ancient and modern architecture combine to make Kyoto a visual feast for travel junkies.

A helicopter tour in Kyoto truly captures the spirit of this mesmerizing city.

This article covers everything you need to know before booking a Kyoto helicopter tour.

Cost of Kyoto heli tours

Helicopter tours in Kyoto can be categorized into day and night tours.

The cheapest day helicopter ride in Kyoto costs US$304 per group (up to 3).

The cheapest night heli tour in Kyoto is priced at US$622 per group (up to 3).

20-minute Kyoto Private Helicopter Tour is the most popular tour in the city, costing US$587 per group (up to 3).

Helicopter rides can be a costly affair.

So, it is important to know the tour costs in advance to plan your trip and factor it in with other considerations.

But there is no doubt that a helicopter tour in Kyoto is a perfect addition to your trip to this city.

Kyoto Day helicopter tours

Day heli rides in Kyoto start in the morning and operate until the sundown.

Tourists who want to intricately see the sights of Kyoto in all its splendor and natives who want to reconnect with the spirit of the city prefer daytime tours.

Below, we have curated a list of some of the most popular Day heli tours in Kyoto:

20-minute Kyoto Private Helicopter Tour

20-minute Kyoto Private Helicopter Tour
Image: privatesky.co.jpprivatesky.co.jp

This heli tour in Kyoto will take you through the skies to give you a tour of the ancient city.

You will pass over landmarks, like Ginkakuji Temple, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Nijo Castle, and Shimogamo Jinja.

Hover over the Kyoto Tower area.

You will get glimpses of the Fushimi Momoyama Castle and the Kyoto Station Building.

Cost of the tour: US$587 per group (up to 3)

Kyoto Private Helicopter Cruising

Kyoto Private Helicopter Cruising
Image: viator.com

This private helicopter ride over Kyoto flies you over the city’s most remarkable landmarks.

Get an aerial view of the Kyoto Tower, shrines, and temples, etc., on this air tour.

Cruise around the Kyoto Station, Kiyomizu-dera, Nijo Castle, and more.

Enlighten your spiritual needs by passing over Kyoto’s shrines and temples.

Make your way to Arashiyama to get a glimpse of the renowned Bamboo Grove.

Be enchanted by the bird’s-eye view of the streets teeming with cherry blossoms in spring and colorful leaves in autumn.

You can choose from the 12- or 30-minute options of this tour.

Cost of the tour

12-minute tour: US$304 per group (up to 3)
30-minute tour: US$725 per group (up to 3)

Kyoto Night helicopter tours

Nighttime heli rides in Kyoto start around the nightfall.

These tours are a popular choice among people who want to propose, celebrate special occasions, or desire to witness the city bathed in shimmering light.

Nighttime tours have fewer departure slots in comparison to day tours.

Here are the best night heli rides over Kyoto:

City lights Kyoto Helicopter Tour

City lights Kyoto Helicopter Tour
Image: viator.com

Take in the views of Kyoto under the moonlight on this 12-minute night-view Kyoto heli tour.

Get panoramic views of the city as your pilot guide will point you to the Kyoto station and Kyoto Tower area.

This magical journey opens you up to a new perspective on the city’s beauty and its picturesque landscapes, bathed in the soft glow of city lights.

Cost of the tour: US$622 per group (up to 3)

Kyoto-Osaka night view helicopter excursion

Kyoto-Osaka night view helicopter excursion
Image: viator.com

Cover Kyoto’s best sights within an hour on this 43-minute Kyoto helicopter ride.

Aerial views of landmarks like trendy Shinjuku, historic Imperial Palace, and iconic Tokyo Tower are sure to make you weak in the knees.

Get set for this nighttime tour for a serene experience after daytime hustle and bustle fade away.

Cost of the tour: US$1,658 per group (up to 3)


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What to expect

Departure point of the heli tours

Kyoto helicopter tours take off from the Kyoto Heliport.

Address: Japan, 612-0000 京都府京都市伏見区向島柳島1. Get directions

The heliport is near public transportation.

The tours end back at the meeting point.

There are multiple take-offs daily, so book early to get your preferred time slot.

Timings of the tours

Kyoto helicopter flights are operational throughout the week.

Daytime Kyoto heli tours take off in slots between 9 am and 5.30 pm.

Night helicopter tours in Kyoto run in slots between 5 pm and 8 pm.

Inclusions of the air tours

Kyoto heli rides include a helicopter tour in the city in a private, air-conditioned vehicle.

The ticket prices are also inclusive of a live commentary onboard by the pilot, noise canceling headsets, landing and facility fees, and pre-flight briefing.

Kyoto helicopter flights exclude hotel transfers, meals and beverages, and personal expenses.

Restrictions strictly followed

Weight limits apply for safe and comfortable Kyoto heli tours.

A maximum of three passengers are allowed on these tours.

Infants under two years old may not be allowed on some tours. It is recommended to contact your tour operator to confirm the same.

Passengers who have done scuba diving in the past 24 hours cannot participate.

Kyoto helicopter tours are not wheelchair-accessible.

A valid passport is required.

Check in at least 30 minutes early.

Flight times are approximate based on winds, weights, and conditions.

Seating arrangements may often be in the hands of the tour organizers for a safe and stable flight.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before your tour date. 

If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, a 100% cancellation fee is applicable.

No changes are allowed within 24 hours of the experience’s start time.

Helicopter tours require good weather. 

If the tour is canceled due to poor weather or non-fulfillment of the minimum number of passengers, you may be offered a different date or a full refund.

Related reading

Yokohama helicopter tours
Helicopter tours to Mt Fuji
Helicopter tours in Tokyo
Helicopter tours in Osaka

Recommended Reading

How to enjoy your first helicopter tour
What to wear for helicopter tours
Overcoming the fear of flying
How long to wait after diving before flying
Why helicopter tours are worth it
FAQs about Helicopter tours

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Researched & Written by
For Vanshita, traveling is not just a hobby but the truest form of self-expression. She has a penchant for road trips, spontaneous detours, captivating landscapes, and cultural encounters. She loves collecting souvenirs from the places she visits and taking snapshots with a story to tell. Her favorite cities are Boston, Budapest, and Nikko.

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