Kyoto and Nara Day Trip from Osaka
Active
11h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience the vibrant history and culture of Kyoto and Nara all in one day from Osaka! Kick off your day with a train ride from Osaka to Kyoto, accompanied by our assistant. From Jan. 2025, you can board a Shinkansen! Upon arrival in Kyoto, a licensed English-speaking guide will join you, leading you to Nijo Castle, Kinkakuji Temple, and Kyoto Imperial Palace. After lunch, the guided tour continues to Nara, where you'll marvel at Great Buddha statue at Todaiji Temple, mingle with the friendly deer at Nara Park, and visit KasugaTaisha Shrine. After a day filled with historical wonders, our assistant will escort you back to Osaka.
Available options
With Western-style Lunch
Western-style Lunch: Lunch will be a Western-style set menu.<br/>Vegetarian Request: For those who would like a vegetarian meal, please make sure to inform us at the time of reservation.
With Indian Thali Lunch
Indian Thali Lunch : Lunch will be a Indian Thali menu.<br/>End Points: Tour ends at Osaka Station.
No Lunch
No Lunch : This plan does not include lunch <br/>End points: Tour ends at Osaka Station
What's included
Lunch (only if you select "With Lunch" option when booking)
National Government Licensed English Guide Interpreter
Admission fees and transportation costs included in the tour
Detailed itinerary
1
Take a rapid service, or local train to Shin-osaka station. Enjoy comfortable Shinkansen travel between Shin-Osaka and Kyoto! Public transportation will be used on this tour. All trains have non-reserved seats. Please note that seating is not guaranteed.
2
Arrive at Kyoto Station and walk to the Sunrise Tours Desk in Kyoto Avanti B1. The tour will take a bus to next destination from here.
3
Stop 3
A World Heritage site. Tour the historical castle completed in 1626, which was built to provide lodging for the Tokugawa Shogun and as a palladium for Kyoto Imperial Palace. The impressive, elaborate carvings and decors in the Ninomaru Palace are a must-see. The tour will not enter the Honmaru Palace and Painting Gallery. Please refer to "Information travelers need from you" regarding alternative destinations on the day of closure.
4
Stop 4
A World Heritage site. The wooden architecture is covered in thin layers of pure gold and is surrounded by a beautiful pond.
5
Stop 5
See the Kyoto Imperial Palace, which was used as the Emperor's residence until about 150 years ago. On days when the Kyoto Imperial Palace is closed to visitors, the tour will visit Kitano Tenmangu Shrine (disembark for sightseeing) as an alternative destination. This shrine is famous for the god of learning, and its main hall is a designated national treasure. The shrine is especially great to see during the plum blossom and autumn leaf seasons. Please refer to "Additional Information" regarding alternative destinations on the day of closure.
6
Stop 6
This Nara Period shrine is designated as a World Heritage Site. The deer of Nara Park are thought to be the shrine messengers. From January 2025, the Main Sanctuary special visit area will be newly added to the itinerary. Visitors can get closer to the Main Sanctuary and view the hanging lanterns in the corridor.
7
Stop 7
A World Heritage site. This is the symbol of the Nara Period and one of the world's largest wooden structures. Its huge main hall and bronze Great Buddha are impressive to behold.
8
Stop 8
Pass by
Return to Osaka by Kintetsu Railway with non-reserved seat. The tour will be guided by an assistant from Kintetsu Nara Station to Osaka Namba Station.
What's not included
Fees other than those listed in Includes
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.2
172 reviews
5★
76
4★
68
3★
19
2★
6
1★
3
Tripadvisor
4.7
3 reviews
5★
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4★
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3★
0
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0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
As the Kyoto Imperial Palace is closed to visitors on Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a holiday) and on days when there is an Imperial Household Agency event, the tour will visit Kitano Tenmangu Shrine instead. If the closed day falls on the 25th, the tour will visit Nishi Hongan-ji Temple
Nijo Castle is closed on Tuesdays in January, July, August, and December. (Closed on the following day if Tuesday is a holiday.) If closed, Ryoan-ji Temple will be visited instead
Participants will walk from the parking lot to Todai-ji Temple (about 25 min one-way). Please inform us at the time of booking if any person in your group is using crutches or a wheelchair, or has a chronic illness that makes it difficult to walk for long distances
At Kasuga Taisha Shrine, the tour will also enter the Main Sanctuary special visit area. However, in case the special visit area cannot be entered due to events or operational circumstances, the Kasuga Taisha Museum or Todaiji Museum will be visited instead
Depending on the number of participants, JR train or a bus may be used for the trip from Osaka to Kyoto, and Kintetsu train or a bus may be used from Nara to Osaka. Please note that seating is non-reserved for the trip from Osaka to Kyoto and the trip from Nara to Osaka if using public transportation. Please note that seating is not guaranteed
Refunds will not be issued in case the tour visits aforementioned alternative destinations
The order of activities and arrival times may differ depending on road conditions and congestion at destinations
Seats may not be designated
[Only for guests selected With Lunch option] Lunch will be a Western-style set menu. For those who would like a vegetarian meal, please make sure to inform us at the time of reservation. If requests are not provided in advance, same-day changes cannot be accepted. Halal, gluten-free, and other meal requests are not available
[Only for guests selected With Indian Thali Lunch option] Lunch will be an Indian thali set menu suitable for vegetarians. Menu: 3 kinds of curry (bean curry, vegetable curry, spinach and potato curry), vegetable pakora (Indian-style vegetable tempura), plain yogurt, naan or roti, rice (Indian rice), salad, 1 serving of non-alcoholic drink
Customers for Indian thali lunch and Western lunch will be served in separate dining area. On the day of the tour, the meal cannot be changed to a Western-style lunch/Indian thali lunch
Halal, gluten-free, and other meal requests are not available
For those who don't require lunch, please make a booking for the 'No Lunch' option. Customers with No lunch option will have free time to eat on their own in the Kyoto Station area
Children up to 5 years old may join free of charge, but will not be provided with bus seats or lunch. If bus seats or lunch is required, please make a booking under the child rate
The tour will be accompanied by an English-speaking assistant (not a National Government Licensed English Guide Interpreter) from Hotel Granvia Osaka to the Sunrise Tours Desk in Kyoto Avanti B1F, and from Kintetsu Nara Station to Osaka Namba Station
Parental permission in writing is necessary for all tour participants under the age of eighteen. Any participant under the age of fifteen or not yet enrolled in middle school must be joined by a parent or guardian on the tour
Meeting point
Please meet at Hotel Granvia Osaka 1F in front of elevator, not the 19th floor with front desk. After the meet-up, walk to JR Osaka Station. The tour will be guided by an assistant until reaching the Sunrise Tours Desk in Kyoto Avanti B1.
Important notes
• If you have arrived at the pickup location but have trouble finding the meeting point, you can call the local operator JTB Sunrise Tours on +81 3 5796 5454 (Operated between 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Japan time) for assistance.
• In case bookings have been made separately, you may be assigned to be on separate tour buses.
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
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