Kyoto helicopter tours

Kyoto is an abode of Japanese traditions, history, and culture and 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.

Top Tickets

# 20-minute Kyoto Private Helicopter Tour
# City lights Kyoto Helicopter Tour

It’s highly recommended to book your Helicopter tour in Kyoto tickets in advance. These tickets sell out quickly, so securing your spot early ensures you don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience.

What’s ahead

Cancellation Policy

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.

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Kyoto Day helicopter tours

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

Tourists who want to intricately see the sights of Kyoto in all its splendor and natives who want to reconnect with the city’s spirit 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

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$735 per group (up to 3)

Related: Explore Helicopter Tour FAQs

Kyoto Private Helicopter Cruising

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$436 per group (up to 3)
30-minute tour: US$1,137 per group (up to 3)

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Related: Enjoy Breathtaking Views with Sunset Helicopter Tours

Kyoto Night Helicopter Tours

Nighttime heli rides in Kyoto start around 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 than day tours.

Here are the best night heli rides over Kyoto:

City Lights Kyoto Helicopter Tour

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$769 per group (up to 3)

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Kyoto-Osaka night view helicopter excursion

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

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

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

Cost of the tour: US$1,605 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.

Multiple take-offs are 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 of the city in a private, air-conditioned vehicle.

The ticket prices also include 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 that you contact your tour operator to confirm this.

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.