Osaka & Nara in 1-Day by Private Van with Local Expert Guide
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Osaka & Nara in 1-Day by Private Van with Local Expert Guide

Active
(75 reviews)
6h - 7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Have your best and most unforgettable day trip in Japan, guided by a local specialist to tour two unique cities, ancient Nara and urban Osaka, efficiently in a comfortable air-conditioned car!

You will first visit Nara, “Deer" Park, the sanctuary of super-friendly wild Japanese deer, and see the most ancient, significant and biggest temple in Japan, Todaiji Temple, with the biggest Buddha Statue in Japan.

After visiting ancient Nara, you will move to the most urban area of Osaka and take a cruise by car to see the most iconic landmarks of Osaka, including Osaka Castle and Dotonbori, walk some unique streets of Osaka and eat the best Osaka local foods!

This tour includes an optional "dark tour" into a ghetto area of Osaka, the "Airin Area" and one of the most historical red-light districts in the world, Tobita-Shinchi. (omittable)

Your friendly and flexible local guide will explain everything about those two cities in a comfortable car!

Book Now for a Perfect Day!

Available options

Nissan Van "Serena" (2-6 pax)

Nissan Serena S-Hybrid (c26)<br/>Pickup included

Mini Convertible (1 pax only)

Mini Convertible "Highgate"<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Nissan Serena (2-6 pax) / Mini Convertible (1 pax)
Fuel & Highway Fees
Flexible Pickup & Dropping-off at anywhere in Kyoto, Osaka or Nara *You can finish at anywhere too
Full English Guide & Driver
Parking Fees
Dinner time & Local Restaurant Guide

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Todai-ji Temple, the biggest historical wooden architecture in the world with also the biggest Buddha statue sitting inside, is the most important Buddhist temple to Japanese people to 1400 years.
You'll be explained so well about its dramatic history and all the meanings of each statue with deep insights into Buddhism and Japanese culture.
You will touch the essence of Buddhism with your eyes and ears by visiting here on this tour!

2
Stop 2

Osaka Castle has been the most iconic symbol of Osaka for more than 400 years. The truth of the samurais, the founder Shogun's story and history behind the castle counted as one of the 3 most beautiful castles of Japan.
The castle around is a park loved by local Japanese people, especially on cherry blossom seasons. Don’t forget to bring your camera!
*Not going inside of the castle tower because it's just a museum now

3

Walking 5-10 minutes from the main temple with adorable deer, an ancient wooden temple sits on the top of the hill. The name Nigatsu “February” is named after its one of the most important religious ceremonies in Japan, “Omizutori” in the Chinese lunar February.
Rest yourself while watching the great view of Nara and listening to the history of the 1270-year-continued ceremony.

4
Stop 4

The sanctuary of wild deer! You will be amazed to see so many wild deer relaxing in nature, in the temples, on roads and almost everywhere, not scared of people at all. What's interesting is that this park has been a national park of Japan for 1400 years, designated by the emperor. So even though it's right next to the downtown area of Nara, nature is primeval and the atmosphere brings you to ancient periods.
You'll be guided with many information about Japanese deer and also with enough safety guidance to hang out with the wild and sacred animal.

5
Stop 5

Dotonbori/Shinsaibashi area, is the most famous, iconic and crowded of all Osaka, known for the "running man" sign, the riverside with full of fancy neons and the longest shopping street of Japan
The energy of Osaka is here

6
Stop 6 Pass by

American village!? But this is not for Americans but for Osakan Youngs. The atmosphere is like "Shibuya" and "Harajuku" of Tokyo got combined, so cooler! All the good nightclubs and gigs are here!

7
Stop 7 Pass by

"Akihabara" of Osaka, a town of electronics and animes! More concentrated than Akiba'

8
Stop 8

The top 3 greatest bells of Japan, the loudest bell of Japan, 1300-year-old bronze bell located in the middle of Nara park has been rang by a monk every 8 pm, but never gets hit on target because it will sound for 3 days!

9

This is the deepest spot in Osaka, the so-called "red-line district". You will be so surprised by the prostitutes with school-uniform costumes on, waving hands from very traditional Japanese houses.
The area's history will be well explained by the guide
NO PHOTOGRAPHS if you don't want to get killed by Yakuzas protecting this area!

10

The most crowded shopping arcade in Japan where you can see "the river of people", comparative to Shibuya Crossing

11

This is Osaka! The symbolic street of Osaka with unique shops and friendly (drunken) people where you can taste famous Osaka street foods. Try Takoyaki (Octopus balls) and walk the lively street with fancy billboards.

What's not included

Any additional cost by your customization
Fee for dinner
Lunch time
Todaiji

Available languages

Guide guide
JA EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
37 reviews
5★
36
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
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Tripadvisor 5.0
38 reviews
5★
37
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
ONLY If it's maximum 6 pax, the middle seat will be used. Please check the size of our van (Nissan Serena) and your group. It can be a little tight if it's all big adults. No bigger car available
The itinerary gets updated flexibly by the seasons and conditions. Not all the small sites listed are guaranteed to cover
Vegetarian or other food restriction request for the dinner guide is available, but if you are sensitive (eg. strict vegan/halal) or very picky, please have it by yourself after the tour. We can finish early and drop you off at any restaurants as well

Important notes

Please inform me of your pick-up point by the day before if you haven't yet
wadaftours@outlook.jp

About Kyoto

Kyoto, once the imperial capital of Japan, is a city rich in history, culture, and tradition. Known for its numerous classical Buddhist temples, as well as gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines, and traditional wooden houses, Kyoto offers a unique blend of ancient and modern Japan. The city is a must-visit for travelers seeking to experience the heart of Japanese heritage.

Top Attractions

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

A Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, Kinkaku-ji is one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks. The temple's top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf, reflecting beautifully on the surrounding pond.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours ¥400

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, Fushimi Inari Taisha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari, the god of rice. The trails leading up the mountain offer stunning views of Kyoto.

Religious 2-4 hours (depending on how far you hike) Free

Kiyomizu-dera

A historic wooden temple with a large veranda supported by massive wooden pillars, Kiyomizu-dera offers panoramic views of Kyoto. The temple is particularly famous for its spring and autumn foliage.

Religious 1-2 hours ¥400

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

A stunning grove of bamboo, Arashiyama is one of Kyoto's most famous natural attractions. The towering bamboo stalks create a surreal and peaceful atmosphere.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (Tenryu-ji Temple costs ¥500)

Gion

Kyoto's most famous geisha district, Gion is known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, teahouses, and the chance to spot geishas and maikos (apprentice geishas).

Cultural 1-2 hours (longer if dining or attending a cultural event) Free to explore (dining and cultural events can be expensive)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kaiseki Ryori

A traditional multi-course Japanese meal that emphasizes seasonality and presentation. Each dish is carefully prepared and artfully presented.

Dinner Often includes fish, meat, and vegetables, but vegetarian options are available.

Yudofu (Tofu Hot Pot)

A Kyoto specialty featuring tofu simmered in a light kombu (kelp) broth, often served with vegetables and condiments.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian-friendly, can be made vegan if broth is vegetable-based.

Matcha Desserts

Kyoto is famous for its high-quality matcha (green tea) powder, used in various desserts like ice cream, parfaits, and wagashi (traditional sweets).

Dessert Vegetarian and vegan options available.

Obanzai

Home-style Kyoto dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, often featuring vegetables, fish, and tofu.

Lunch/Dinner Can be adapted to various dietary preferences.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the mountains Cycling through the countryside Rafting on the Hozu River Onsen (hot spring) visits Tea ceremonies Scenic walks in gardens and parks Temple and shrine visits Traditional tea ceremonies

Best Time to Visit

March to May (Spring), October to November (Autumn)

Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and are the best times to visit for cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. These seasons also see the highest tourist volumes.

15°C to 25°C (Spring), 10°C to 20°C (Autumn) 59°F to 77°F (Spring), 50°F to 68°F (Autumn)

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Japanese
  • Widely spoken: English (limited)
  • English: Limited/Rare

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (UTC+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Kyoto is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to take basic precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
  • • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
  • • Use reputable tour operators and taxis

Getting there

By air
  • Kansai International Airport • 115 km from Kyoto
  • Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 40 km from Kyoto
By train

Kyoto Station

By bus

Kyoto Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most extensive and affordable way to get around Kyoto. They cover most areas of the city and are especially useful for reaching temples and shrines.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, INDRIVER

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Gion Higashiyama Arashiyama Downtown Kyoto (Shijo-Kawaramachi)

Day trips

Nara
40 km from Kyoto • Half day to full day

Nara is a historic city known for its ancient temples, shrines, and the famous Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer.

Uji
20 km from Kyoto • Half day

Uji is a small city known for its historic temples, beautiful riverside scenery, and high-quality matcha (green tea).

Kurama and Kibune
25 km from Kyoto • Full day

Kurama and Kibune are two neighboring villages in the mountains north of Kyoto, known for their hot springs, hiking trails, and scenic beauty.

Festivals

Gion Matsuri • July (main events on July 17th and 24th) Jidai Matsuri • October 22nd Aoi Matsuri • May 15th

Pro tips

  • Visit popular attractions like Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kinkaku-ji early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
  • Consider purchasing a Kyoto City Bus Pass or other transportation passes to save money on getting around the city.
  • Try local specialties like yudofu (tofu hot pot), matcha desserts, and obanzai (home-style Kyoto dishes).
  • Explore the city's many temples and shrines, but don't forget to take time to enjoy the natural beauty of Kyoto's gardens and parks.
  • Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for local customs and traditions.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 6
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Free cancellation available
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