From Osaka/Kyoto: Kyoto & Nara Day Trip With Lunch

Exploring the rich cultural heritage of Japan is a must-do for any visitor. This day trip from Osaka or Kyoto promises an unforgettable experience, taking travelers to the iconic cities of Kyoto and Nara. With visits to stunning temples, a delicious traditional lunch, and encounters with friendly deer, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Japan’s historical treasures. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this day trip is sure to leave you captivated by the country’s captivating blend of ancient and modern.

Good To Know

• Full-day guided tour from Osaka/Kyoto to visit iconic sites in Kyoto and Nara, including Kinkakuji temple and Todaiji temple.
• Includes a delicious Japanese lunch and transportation via air-conditioned vehicle.
• Maximum of 40 participants for a comfortable experience, with hotel pick-up and drop-off provided.
• Tour commentary available in English and Chinese, and late arrivals may not receive refunds.
• Well-paced itinerary covering key cultural highlights, with the opportunity to interact with local deer in Nara Park.

Tour Overview

The Kyoto & Nara Day Trip offers travelers a chance to explore the cultural and historical highlights of these two renowned Japanese cities.

Starting from Osaka, the full-day tour takes visitors to iconic sites like the Kinkakuji temple in Kyoto and the impressive Todaiji temple in Nara.

Lunch is included, and an English or Chinese-speaking guide accompanies the group. The tour utilizes an air-conditioned vehicle and covers all entrance fees and taxes.

With a maximum of 40 participants, this day trip provides an efficient and comprehensive way to experience the best of Kyoto and Nara in a single day.

Inclusions

This day trip includes a delicious lunch as well as entrance fees to the iconic Kinkakuji temple in Kyoto and the optional Todaiji temple in Nara.

An English or Chinese-speaking guide accompanies the group throughout the tour, providing commentary. Transportation is by air-conditioned vehicle, and all fees and taxes are covered.

Hotel pick-up and drop-off are also included, making the logistics seamless. The tour caters to a maximum of 40 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.

Whether you’re interested in the golden pavilion or the giant Buddha statue, this Kyoto and Nara day trip has you covered.

Meeting and Departure Information

Travelers must select a meeting point for this tour, and are advised to arrive 10 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time. The tour departs on time, and late arrivals may not receive refunds. The contact for this tour may be unresponsive outside of business hours, which are 9:30am-6pm JST, Monday through Saturday. Guests are encouraged to message 1 day prior for any meeting point clarification.

Meeting Point Options	Departure Time	Contact Hours
TBA	On time	9:30am-6pm JST, MON-SAT
Centrally located hotel	No refunds for late arrivals	May be unresponsive outside of hours
Pre-arranged location	Message 1 day prior for clarification	–
–	–	–

Tour Conditions and Limitations

Infants under 3 travel free without a seat, but a seat requires the child’s price.

This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s near public transportation.

While the tour may be delayed due to traffic or weather, you’ll get a full refund for cancellations caused by severe conditions.

The commentary on the bus is provided in both English and Chinese.

Keep in mind that late arrivals may not receive refunds, and the contact may be unresponsive outside business hours, which are Monday to Saturday, 9:30 am to 6 pm JST.

Always message 1 day prior to confirm the meeting point.

Kyoto Highlights

The day trip kicks off with a visit to the iconic Kinkakuji, also known as the Golden Pavilion. This remarkable Zen temple is coated in gold leaf, creating a stunning sight as it reflects in the pond below. Next, the group explores Nijo Castle, marveling at the Ninomaru Palace and its famous "nightingale floors" that chirp with each step.

Kyoto Highlights	Overview
Kinkakuji	Iconic golden temple
Nijo Castle	Historical castle with "nightingale floors"
Nishiki Market	Bustling food market nicknamed "Kyoto’s Kitchen"
Fushimi Inari	Iconic shrine with thousands of vibrant orange torii gates

The tour then ventures to the lively Nishiki Market, a bustling food hall dubbed "Kyoto’s Kitchen", before capping off the day at the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vibrant orange torii gates.

Nara Highlights

After exploring the highlights of Kyoto, the day trip ventures to the charming city of Nara. Known for its tame deer roaming freely in Nara Park, visitors can interact with and feed these friendly creatures.

The tour also includes a visit to the impressive Todaiji Temple, home to the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue. Plus, the group may visit Kasuga Taisha Shrine, famous for its thousands of lanterns that line the temple’s walkways.

The Nara portion of the day trip offers a delightful contrast to the cultural sites seen in Kyoto, providing a well-rounded experience of Japan’s ancient treasures.

What to Expect

Although the tour covers two historic cities in one day, travelers can expect a well-paced itinerary that allows ample time to explore the key sights.

The first stop is the stunning Kinkakuji temple, also known as the "Golden Pavilion", followed by the impressive Todaiji temple in Nara, home to the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue.

Travelers will also have the opportunity to interact with friendly local deer in Nara Park.

Lunch is included, giving everyone a chance to try traditional Japanese cuisine.

With an English or Chinese-speaking guide, the day trip provides a comprehensive introduction to the cultural highlights of Kyoto and Nara.

Cancellation Policy

Travelers can take advantage of a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts. This provides flexibility, allowing participants to reserve their spot now and pay later.

The tour also offers a few key advantages in terms of cancellation:

1. Full refunds are provided if the tour is canceled due to severe weather or other conditions.
2. Late arrivals may not receive refunds, as the tour departs on time.
3. Contacting the tour operator outside of business hours (9:30am-6pm JST, MON-SAT) may result in delayed responses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Purchase Additional Meals During the Tour?

No, the tour includes lunch as part of the inclusions. Additional meals can’t be purchased during the tour. The tour price covers the specified items, including entrance fees and transportation.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour does not offer an option to extend the duration. The tour is a fixed one-day itinerary, and additional time or activities aren’t included. Travelers must book the full-day tour as described to participate.

How Much Free Time Is Allocated at Each Attraction?

The tour provides ample time at each attraction, allowing travelers to explore the sites at their own pace. Specific durations are not listed, but the itinerary is designed to give visitors a fulfilling experience within the tour’s timeframe.

Can I Adjust the Itinerary to Visit Specific Sites?

Unfortunately, the tour itinerary can’t be adjusted to visit specific sites. The schedule is pre-determined and focused on the key attractions in Kyoto and Nara. However, you’ll have some free time at each location to explore on your own.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

Unfortunately, the tour operator doesn’t offer any discounts for students or seniors. The price is a flat rate of $61.46 per person, regardless of age or student status. However, children under 3 can join the tour for free without a seat.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Osaka or Kyoto provides an immersive cultural experience. Visitors will explore Kyoto’s iconic Golden Pavilion, experience the serene Todaiji Temple, and interact with friendly deer in Nara Park. With a delicious Japanese lunch, comfortable transportation, and expert commentary, this trip promises an unforgettable exploration of Japan’s historic treasures.