Kyoto and Nara 1-Day Bus Tour from Osaka or Kyoto

3.7
(155 reviews)
Osaka, Japan

9 to 10 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

Begin your day from VIP Lounge in Osaka or Kyoto.

Your journey begins in Nara, Japan’s ancient capital. Discover the beauty of Nara Park, a historic landmark reflecting the city’s timeless charm. Continue to Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, home to the 15-meter Great Buddha inside the world’s largest wooden structure.

Next, immerse yourself in the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Walk amidst towering stalks and feel the tranquil atmosphere as sunlight filters through the grove. Free time for lunch (note: location may shift to Fushimi Inari depending on traffic).
Lunch Option features world-famous Kobe beef celebrated for its tenderness and rich flavor. You can choose from these three classic styles: Shabu-shabu, Sukiyaki, or Beef Rice Bowl.

Continue to Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion. Admire its gold-leaf exterior and serene garden.

Finally, visit the world-famous Fushimi Inari Shrine, with its thousands of vermilion torii gates up Mount Inari.

What's Included

Lunch (if the option is selected)
All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
English or Chinese Speaking Guide
Entrance fee to Kinkakuji temple
Hotel Pick up / Drop off
Entrance fee to Todaiji temple (Optional)

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
You can choose from multiple locations at checkout.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 9 to 10 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Nara Park

    Enjoy a relaxing walk through one of Japan's oldest public parks, surrounded by beautiful seasonal scenery and historic landmarks in the heart of Nara.

    40 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Todai-ji Temple

    Visit Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan's most important Buddhist temples. Home to the Great Buddha and the Great Buddha Hall—the world's largest historic wooden building—it is one of Nara's most iconic cultural landmarks. Time permitting, guests will have the opportunity to visit Todai-ji Temple. The itinerary may be adjusted depending on traffic and operational conditions.

    40 minutes Admission ticket not included
  • 3
    Arashiyama

    Immerse yourself in the enchanting charm of Arashiyama. Visit to the renowned Bamboo Grove, a magical forest of towering green stalks that create a serene and otherworldly atmosphere. Wander through this captivating path, where the light filters through the dense bamboo, creating a unique and tranquil experience. For travelers who choose the no-meal option, you will have a total of 120 minutes in Arashiyama to explore local dining options and enjoy the picturesque surroundings at your own pace. For Travelers Who Have Selected the Lunch Option: Enjoy 50 minutes for lunch at Kyoto Shokujidokoro Wasabi, followed by 60 minutes for Arashiyama.

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Togetsukyo Bridge

    Take in scenic views from Arashiyama's iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, overlooking the Katsura River and surrounded by breathtaking seasonal landscapes.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Arashiyama Kimono Forest

    The "Arashiyama Kimono Forest" in English is called Kimono Forest. It is a public art installation located at Randen Arashiyama Station in Kyoto. The installation features a pathway lined with numerous cylindrical pillars, each wrapped in vibrant kimono fabric encased in clear acrylic.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 6
    Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

    Walk through one of Japan's most famous bamboo groves, where thousands of towering bamboo stalks rise on both sides of the path, creating a unique natural corridor. As sunlight filters through the bamboo and the leaves sway in the breeze, visitors can experience one of Kyoto's most iconic landscapes.

    40 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 7
    Kinkakuji Temple

    Visit to Kinkaku-ji Temple, the Golden Pavilion, a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its dazzling golden exterior and serene gardens. Your ticket is included!

    40 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 8
    Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine

    Explore Fushimi Inari Taisha, the head shrine of over 30,000 Inari shrines throughout Japan. Renowned for its endless tunnels of vibrant vermilion torii gates winding through Mount Inari, it is one of Kyoto's most iconic attractions and a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world.

    1 hour 20 minutes Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • The tour schedule may change without prior notice due to weather, road traffic conditions, and other unforeseen reasons. (There might be delays in returning to the designated location. If the tour is cancelled by the supplier due to extreme weather or natural disaster, you will receive a full refund.
  • This tour will depart regardless of weather or traffic conditions, unless you are notified otherwise by the local operator. Trip Advisor / Viator and your local tour operator will not be responsible for itinerary changes due to unforeseen circumstances.
  • Depending on the number of participants, English and Chinese commentary might be given in the same bus.
Supplied by VIP Japan Tours
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Tags

Day Trips
Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Top Product
Low Supplier Cancellation Rate
Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate
Curated Catalog
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

3.7 Based on 155 155 reviews
5 stars
71
4 stars
20
3 stars
26
2 stars
17
1 star
21
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