Ancient Capital Tour: Kyoto and Nara Highlights from Kyoto/Osaka

4.7
(429 reviews)

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9 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

Experience western Japan on this day trip through Kyoto and Nara. Explore the serene nature of Arashiyama, stroll the gardens of Kyoto's UNESCO-listed Kinkaku-ji, and enjoy feeding deer in Nara Park.

・Visit the gorgeous golden Kinkaku-ji and its immaculate original gardens
・Explore the serene bamboo grove of Arashiyama
・Walk through Nara Park and feed the wild deer
・See the Great Buddha Statue at Todaiji temple

What's Included

Lunch(if option selected)
Entry ticket to Kinkaku-ji Temple
English Speaking Guide
Entry ticket to Todai-ji Temple
Air-conditioned vehicle with free Wi-Fi
Personal expenses
Hotel pickup and drop-off (the tour begins and ends at the meeting points.)

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 hours (approximately)
  • 1

    First, we'll make our way to Arashiyama, where we'll enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch of seasonal Kyoto specialties (If option selected) before exploring the area. The Sagano Bamboo forest has been a popular nature-viewing destination since the Heian Period. Listen to the distinct rustle of bamboo leaves as you walk through the vibrant green bamboo path. You can also see the "moon-crossing bridge," Togetsukyo, as you walk along the beautiful Katsura River.

    2 hours • Admission ticket free
  • 2

    Later, drive through Kyoto proper and arrive at Kinkaku-ji: the Golden Pavilion. True to its name, the gold-leaf covered temple dazzles in the sunlight, reflected in the mirror-like pond it overlooks. After admiring the sight (and taking some great pictures,) wander through the sprawling garden that has retained its original design from the 14th century. Admission tickets not included in last minute option.

    45 minutes • Admission ticket included
  • 3

    Take a short walk through Nara Park, famous for the 1,200 or so wild deer that live freely within the park. With special "shika-senbei," you can feed the polite deer which are famous for "bowing." Within Nara Park you will find the UNESCO World Heritage site, Todai-ji Temple, home to one of the three titanic Great Buddha Statues of Japan.

    1 hour • Admission ticket free
  • 4

    Todai-ji is home to one of the three Great Buddha Statues in Japan. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was first established in the 8th century!

    30 minutes • Admission ticket included

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Tour departs from Kyoto and Osaka on different dates and buses. Choose your departure point carefully when booking.
  • Infants (0-2 years) free (seat and meal not included); must sit on an adult's lap
  • Meeting Time at Namba, OCAT 1F (Near Daiso): 8:50 AM
  • Meeting Time at Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit, in the tourist bus parking area: 9:05 AM
Supplied by LIMON Tours

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Tags

Day Trips
Nature and Wildlife Tours
Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Cultural Tours
Seasonal
Excellent Quality
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

4.7 Based on 429 429 reviews
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