Ancient Capital Tour: Kyoto and Nara Highlights from Kyoto/Osaka
Active
9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
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
Available options
Kyoto Departure w/Buffet Lunch
Japanese Feast: Includes an all-you-can-enjoy lunch of about 40 Kyoto specialties.<br/>Kyoto Departure: Meeting point & Time: Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit Bus Station in front or Kyoto AVANTI 9:05 AM. Admission fee included<br/>Starting point:<br/>Tourist Bus Terminal, Kyoto Station Hachijo Entrance (Kyoto Avanti), Higashikujo Nishisannocho, Minami Ward, Kyoto, 601-8003, Japan
Osaka Dep w/ Buffet Lunch
Japanese Feast: This option offers an all-you-can-enjoy Japanese-style lunch with 40 assorted dishes.<br/> Entry Tickets: Todaiji & Kinkakuji<br/>Starting point:<br/>Namba Ocat Building, 1 Chome-4 Minatomachi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0017, Japan
Kyoto Departure/Without Lunch
Lunch is NOT included.<br/>Kyoto departure: Meeting point & Time: Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit Bus Station in front or Kyoto AVANTI 9:05 AM.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Tourist Bus Terminal, Kyoto Station Hachijo Entrance (Kyoto Avanti), Higashikujo Nishisannocho, Minami Ward, Kyoto, 601-8003, Japan
Osaka Namba Dep. without lunch
Lunch: NOT included<br/>Entry Tickets: Todaiji & Kinkakuji<br/>Starting point:<br/>Namba Ocat Building, 1 Chome-4 Minatomachi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0017, Japan
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
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 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
Stop 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.
3
Stop 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.
4
Stop 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!
What's not included
Personal expenses
Hotel pickup and drop-off (the tour begins and ends at the meeting points.)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.3
110 reviews
5★
66
4★
25
3★
13
2★
3
1★
3
Tripadvisor
4.8
339 reviews
5★
297
4★
29
3★
6
2★
1
1★
6
Important information
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
Please check in 10 minutes before the booked start time
The bus will depart as scheduled; late arrivals are non-refundable
Schedule subject to change due to traffic or weather conditions for safety
Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended
Our business hours are from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM JST on weekdays. Please note that we are unable to respond to emails outside of these hours.
We cannot provide vegan or halal meals. Please book an option without lunch.
For vegetarian requests, contact us directly (contact tour operator) at least 3 days before the tour
Please note this tour requires walking.
Meeting point
The meeting point is on the ground floor (1F) JR Namba OCAT Building, near DAISO.
Meeting time: 8:50 AM
Departure time: 9:00 AM
★If you have trouble finding the meeting point, please contact the emergency call center, available 30 minutes before departure until 6:30 p.m.
Important notes
If you face any difficulties while going to the meeting point, dial the emergency call center from 30 minutes before the departure time until 18:30.
+816-6131-5340 Link for the call center: https://limonbus.livecall.jp
Since we only have 1 line for each language, there's a high possibility that our call center will be busy during the departure time.
Please arrive at the pickup location with ample spare time.
About Osaka
Osaka is a vibrant, bustling city known for its rich culinary scene, historic sites, and modern entertainment. As Japan's second-largest metropolitan area, it offers a dynamic mix of traditional culture and contemporary urban life.
Top Attractions
Osaka Castle
A iconic symbol of Osaka, this castle was originally built in the 16th century and has been beautifully restored. It offers a glimpse into Japan's feudal history and features a museum and scenic park.
Historical
2-3 hours
600 JPY
Dotonbori
A lively and colorful entertainment district known for its neon lights, street food, and vibrant nightlife. Dotonbori is a must-visit for foodies and those looking to experience Osaka's energetic atmosphere.
Entertainment
2-3 hours
Free (food and shopping vary)
Universal Studios Japan
A popular theme park featuring attractions based on famous movies and characters, including Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World, and Jurassic Park. It's a great destination for families and thrill-seekers.
Entertainment
Full day
8,400-10,600 JPY (varies by season and tickets)
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
One of the largest aquariums in the world, featuring a wide variety of marine life, including whales, sharks, and penguins. The aquarium is known for its impressive exhibits and educational programs.
Nature
2-3 hours
2,600 JPY
Shinsekai
A retro district with a nostalgic atmosphere, featuring the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower and a variety of local eateries. Shinsekai is known for its unique blend of old and new, offering a glimpse into Osaka's past.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free (food and shopping vary)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Takoyaki
Octopus-filled batter balls, cooked to perfection and topped with savory sauces and bonito flakes. A must-try street food in Osaka.
Snack
Contains seafood, can be made vegetarian upon request
Okonomiyaki
A savory pancake made with cabbage, batter, and various toppings, cooked on a griddle. Often referred to as 'Japanese pizza.'
Dinner
Can be made vegetarian or vegan upon request
Kushikatsu
Deep-fried skewers of various meats, vegetables, and seafood, served with a dipping sauce. A specialty of the Shinsekai district.
Dinner
Contains seafood and meat, can be made vegetarian upon request
Ramen
Noodle soup dish with various broths, toppings, and noodle types. Osaka is known for its rich and flavorful ramen.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made vegetarian or vegan upon request
Popular Activities
Hiking in the nearby mountains
Cycling tours
Kayaking and water sports
Onsen (hot spring) visits
Tea ceremonies
Gardens and parks
Temple and shrine visits
Traditional workshops (e.g., calligraphy, ikebana)
Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to November
These months offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Cherry blossoms in March and April add to the appeal.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
JST (GMT+9)
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Osaka is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on public safety. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis and reputable tour operators
Getting there
By air
- Kansai International Airport • 50 km from city center
- Itami Airport • 20 km from city center
By train
Osaka Station, Shin-Osaka Station
By bus
Osaka Station Bus Terminal, Umeda Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The Osaka Metro system is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. It consists of eight lines that connect major attractions, shopping districts, and neighborhoods.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Umeda
Namba
Shin-Osaka
Tennoji
Day trips
Kyoto
50 km • Full day
A historic city known for its temples, shrines, and traditional architecture. Kyoto offers a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage and is a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts.
Nara
40 km • Half day to full day
A historic city known for its ancient temples, shrines, and the famous Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer. Nara offers a mix of history, culture, and nature.
Kobe
30 km • Full day
A port city known for its historic sites, scenic views, and delicious beef. Kobe offers a mix of culture, history, and culinary delights.
Festivals
Tenjin Matsuri • July 24-25
Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri • September 14-15
Osaka Castle Illumination • December (specific dates vary)
Pro tips
- Use an IC card, such as ICOCA or Suica, for easy and convenient payments on public transportation, vending machines, and convenience stores
- Try local specialties, such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu, at street food stalls and local restaurants
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and long lines
- Explore the city's unique neighborhoods, such as Dotonbori, Shinsekai, and Den Den Town, to experience the diverse culture and atmosphere of Osaka
- Take advantage of the city's extensive public transportation system, including the Osaka Metro, JR trains, and buses, to easily navigate and explore the city
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
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