Discover the best of Kyoto on a full-day tour with round-trip train transfers from Osaka and a guided sightseeing tour by bus. Start your journey with a comfortable self-guided train ride to Kyoto, where you'll meet your professional guide before exploring the city's most iconic landmarks.
Visit the peaceful Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, admire the dazzling Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), discover the historic Nijo Castle, and take in the panoramic views from Kiyomizu-dera Temple. End the day at Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates winding through the mountainside.
If Nijo Castle is unavailable due to local circumstances, it will be replaced with a visit to the impressive Sanjūsangen-dō Temple. After the tour, return to Osaka by train at your own pace. Please note that the train journeys between Osaka and Kyoto are self-guided. The itinerary may vary slightly due to weather or traffic conditions.
Your tour starts in Osaka with a self-guided train journey to Kyoto. Your confirmed departure time and digital tickets will be sent the day before. On arrival, meet your guide outside Hotel Keihan Kyoto Grande. Please arrive at Shin-Osaka Station and the meeting point at least 10 minutes early.
The tour ends at Fushimi Inari, and the guide will give you instructions on how to get to Kyoto Station on your own to board the train back to Osaka
Start your adventure by taking the train from Osaka to Kyoto. Please note that this train journey is self-guided.
Once you arrive in Kyoto, meet your guide at the designated meeting point. Begin your adventure by departing the bustling city of Kyoto and heading towards some of the area's most iconic sites. First, you will head to the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. The bus ride will take approximately 40 minutes.
Your first stop is the enchanting Bamboo Grove in Arashiyama, where you will enjoy early access to explore this iconic place before the crowds arrive. A magical place where you'll stroll through towering bamboo stalks that create a serene and otherworldly atmosphere. Take in the sights and sounds of nature as you walk along the winding paths, perfect for photography and meditation.
After enjoying the tranquility of Arashiyama, you'll be able to explore the magnificent Kinkaku-ji, or the Golden Pavilion, only if you have purchased a valid entry ticket. (The bus ride will take approximately 30 minutes.). This stunning Zen Buddhist temple is covered in brilliant gold leaf, reflecting beautifully in the surrounding pond. Take time to explore the meticulously landscaped gardens and learn about the temple’s rich history.
Next , you'll visit Nijo Castle, in case you have previously purchased the ticket. This UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. ( The bus ride to Nijo Castle will take approximately 30 minutes.)Walk through the castle grounds and discover the famous Ninomaru Palace, renowned for its "nightingale floors" that chirp when walked upon, designed to protect against intruders. Immerse yourself in the historical significance of this former residence of the shogun.
Continue your journey to Kiyomizu-dera, a historic temple perched on a hillside that offers breathtaking views of the city below. (The bus ride to Kiyomizu-dera will take approximately 30 minutes). Remember, access is only permitted if the ticket has been purchased in advance. Marvel at the wooden stage that juts out over the hillside, surrounded by cherry and maple trees. Visit the main hall and the sacred spring, Otowa Waterfall, where you can drink from the streams for health, longevity, and success. Before to visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, you will have free time to go to lunch.
Next, head to Fushimi Inari Taisha, renowned for its thousands of vermillion torii gates forming a stunning mountain pathway.(The bus ride to Fushimi Inari will take approximately 30 minutes). Enjoy free time before walking through the iconic gates, reaching the main shrine and beyond, while taking in the serene scenery and spiritual atmosphere, with smaller shrines along the way. The tour ends at Fushimi Inari, and the guide will give you instructions on how to get to Kyoto Station on your own.
After the tour, take the train back to your starting point in Osaka. Please note that this train journey is self-guided.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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