Nara And Kyoto Customized Tour

Nara and Kyoto, two of Japan’s most iconic destinations, offer a wealth of cultural treasures waiting to be explored. The Nara and Kyoto Customized Tour provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to interact with friendly deer, marvel at the impressive Todaiji Temple, and uncover the serene beauty of the Arashiyama bamboo grove. With the flexibility to choose between Osaka or Kyoto as the starting and ending point, this guided excursion promises a well-rounded cultural journey accompanied by knowledgeable guides. But what makes this tour truly special? The answer lies in the unique stories and insights that await those who…

Key Points

Flexible tour with option to choose Osaka or Kyoto as starting and ending point, allowing visitors to customize their sightseeing experience.
Comprehensive exploration of iconic landmarks in Nara and Kyoto, including Nara Park, Todaiji Temple, Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kinkaku-ji, and Arashiyama bamboo grove.
Accompanied by English, Tagalog, and Japanese-speaking driver and guide to provide assistance throughout the 10-hour sightseeing tour.
Opportunity to interact with the friendly, bow-headed deer in Nara Park and purchase special deer crackers to feed them.
Flexible booking policy allows reserving a spot now and paying later, with tips not included in the tour price.

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Tour Overview

This full-day sightseeing tour offers visitors a chance to explore the ancient sites of Kyoto and Nara, with the flexibility to choose Osaka or Kyoto as the starting and ending point.

You’ll be accompanied by an English, Tagalog, and Japanese-speaking driver and guide, ensuring a seamless and informative experience.

The tour includes stops at Nara Park, where you can feed the polite deer, and the iconic Todaiji temple, home to a grand Buddha statue.

In Kyoto, you’ll visit the vibrant Fushimi Inari Taisha, the serene Kinkaku-ji, and the stunning Arashiyama bamboo grove.

With a total duration of 10 hours, this tour provides a comprehensive look at Japan’s cultural heritage.

Nara Park Highlights

One of the highlights of the Nara Park portion of the tour is the opportunity to interact with the friendly, bow-headed deer that roam freely throughout the area. Visitors are encouraged to purchase special deer crackers, which the deer will gently take from their hands, often bowing their heads in a polite gesture.

The park is also home to the impressive Todaiji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses a colossal bronze Buddha statue. Wandering through the serene grounds, surrounded by the peaceful deer and the towering temple, offers a truly unique and memorable experience for all who visit.

The park’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage make it a must-see destination on any tour of Nara.

Todaiji and Grand Buddha

Within the expansive grounds of Nara Park stands the iconic Todaiji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for housing one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world.

This colossal figure, known as the Great Buddha, sits majestically inside the temple’s grand main hall, which is itself an architectural marvel and one of the largest wooden structures on the planet.

Visitors can marvel at the sheer size and grandeur of this sacred space, which was originally constructed in the 8th century and has undergone numerous reconstructions over the centuries.

The Great Buddha, measuring over 15 meters in height, is truly a breathtaking sight that embodies the cultural and spiritual significance of Nara.

Fushimi Inari Taisha

A picturesque shrine complex, Fushimi Inari Taisha is renowned for its countless vermilion torii gates that wind up the mountain, creating a mesmerizing sight for visitors.

Dedicated to the Shinto god of rice, this ancient shrine dates back to the 8th century and is one of the most iconic landmarks in Kyoto.

As you ascend the winding trails, you’ll be surrounded by thousands of these distinctive gates, each offering a unique photo opportunity.

The tranquil forests and shrines along the way provide a peaceful respite from the bustling city below.

Whether you’re hiking to the summit or simply exploring the lower reaches, Fushimi Inari Taisha is a must-see attraction on any Kyoto itinerary.

Kinkaku-ji: The Golden Pavilion

Shimmering in the sunlight, the resplendent Kinkaku-ji, or the Golden Pavilion, stands as a stunning representation of Muromachi-period architecture and the refined aesthetics of Zen Buddhism.

This three-story pavilion, covered in gleaming gold leaf, reflects beautifully in the tranquil pond that surrounds it. Visitors are captivated by the elegant structure, which was originally built as a retirement villa for a shogun before becoming a Zen temple.

The Kinkaku-ji embodies the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi, with its perfect blend of natural and artificial elements. Strolling through the serene gardens, one can’t help but be awestruck by the pavilion’s timeless beauty and the peaceful ambiance that pervades the entire site.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Towering bamboo stalks sway gently in the breeze, creating a serene and otherworldly atmosphere within Arashiyama’s enchanting bamboo grove.

Visitors wander the winding pathways, captivated by the verdant, towering thickets that seem to stretch towards the sky. The dappled sunlight filters through the stalks, casting a calming, emerald-hued glow over the entire scene.

It’s easy to understand why this tranquil oasis has become one of Kyoto’s most iconic attractions. The bamboo grove provides a peaceful escape from the bustling city, allowing visitors to enjoy the zen-like beauty of nature.

From the rustling of the bamboo to the gentle crunch of footsteps on the path, it’s an experience that leaves a lasting impression.

Tour Inclusions

The tour includes a 10-hour sightseeing excursion, with a vehicle, fuel, toll fees, and up to 1 hour of parking covered.

An experienced driver and guide will accompany guests throughout the journey, providing assistance in English, Tagalog, and Japanese.

The tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Nara and Kyoto’s iconic landmarks, including the serene Nara Park, the grand Todaiji temple, the vibrant Fushimi Inari Taisha, the stunning Kinkaku-ji, and the enchanting Arashiyama bamboo grove.

While temples and shrines close at 5:00 PM, the flexible booking policy allows guests to reserve their spot now and pay later, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience.

Tips, however, aren’t included in the tour price.

Booking and Policies

This tour offers a flexible booking policy, allowing guests to reserve their spot now and pay later. Customers can choose Osaka or Kyoto as their starting and ending point for the comprehensive 10-hour sightseeing excursion.

Tips, however, aren’t included in the tour price.

The tour’s schedule is tailored to ensure visitors make the most of their time, with temples and shrines closing at 5:00 PM. While a driver and guide will assist throughout the journey, a full guided tour isn’t provided.

This customizable experience allows guests to explore Nara’s friendly deer, the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha, and Kyoto’s stunning bamboo grove at their own pace.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Stop for Lunch During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t include a lunch stop, but customers can request one. The driver and guide can suggest and take visitors to a local restaurant during the tour, providing a more immersive cultural experience.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t offer specific discounts for children or seniors. However, the company may provide flexible pricing options upon request. It’s best to inquire about any special rates when booking the tour.

Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized. The tour operator offers flexibility, allowing customers to tailor the day’s activities based on their interests and preferences within the overall structure of the tour.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Each Attraction?

The tour allocates approximately 1-2 hours at each attraction, allowing ample time for visitors to explore and experience the highlights of Nara Park, Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kinkaku-ji, and the Arashiyama bamboo grove.

Is Travel Insurance Included in the Tour Price?

Travel insurance isn’t included in the tour price. The focus is on providing a comprehensive sightseeing experience, with the driver and guide assisting throughout the day. Travelers are responsible for arranging their own travel insurance coverage.

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Recap

The Nara and Kyoto Customized Tour offers an enriching cultural experience, immersing visitors in the serene beauty and historical significance of these iconic Japanese destinations.

From interacting with the friendly deer in Nara Park to marveling at the grandeur of Todaiji Temple and the tranquility of the Arashiyama bamboo grove, this guided excursion promises an unforgettable journey through Japan’s rich heritage and natural wonders.