Kyoto , Japan

Nara Half-Day Bus Tour from Kyoto

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(4 reviews)

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This tour is conducted by an English-speaking guide only.

Let's explore the traditional areas of Nara, which include Todaiji Temple, Nara Park, and Kasuga Taisha Shrine.

The Great Buddha at Todaiji Temple is one of the most famous and historically significant landmarks in Nara. It stands at a height of around 15 meters. Todaiji Temple boasts the title of having the largest wooden structure in the world.

In Nara Park, you can enjoy the sight of friendly and charming deer.

Kasuga Taisha Shrine is an important historical site in ancient Nara. We can visit the main sanctuary for general worship. (Please note that the special worship of the main sanctuary, Kasugataisha Museum, and Botanical Garden are not included.)

Let's have a delicious Japanese-style lunch. The restaurant also has a shop where you can buy local souvenirs. After lunch, you can do a little shopping to bring back some mementos or souvenirs to remember your visit!

Available options

From Kyoto

Kyoto Avanti

What's included

Lunch

Entrance fee of Todaiji

Air-conditioned bus

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Kasuga Taisha Shrine is an important historical site in ancient Nara. We can visit the main sanctuary for general worship. (Please note that the special worship of the main sanctuary, Kasugataisha Museum, and Botanical Garden are not included.)

Stop 2

The Great Buddha at Todaiji Temple, standing about 15 meters tall, is one of Nara's most famous and historically significant landmarks. Todaiji Temple also holds the title of the world's largest wooden structure.
In Nara Park, you can enjoy the sight of friendly and charming deer.

Stop 3

Enjoy a delicious Japanese-style lunch at the local restaurant!

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This is a group tour, not a private tour. Please note that we are unable to make any additions to the itinerary based on individual requests, regardless of the number of participants.

If the minimum number of participants 10 is not met by 14 days before the scheduled date, the tour on that date might be cancelled.

Please note that some of the buildings and Buddha statues may look different or you may not be able to see them due to constructions.

Please note that bringing large luggage during the tour is not allowed.

Please arrive at the meeting location 15 minutes prior to the departure time.

The bus will depart according to the schedule and will not wait for late arrivals.

This tour may involve the use of either a bus or a train, or a combination of both.

The schedule is subject to change without prior notice.

Due to traffic or other reasons, the duration of visits at each destination may be shortened, and arrival times may be delayed

Refunds will not be provided if you fail to arrive at the meeting location on time (no show).

In the event of a natural disaster, such as a typhoon, the tour will be canceled, and a full refund will be issued.

Please personally take responsibility for your valuables.

Please inform us of any allergies or dietary restrictions when you book. especially if the tour includes lunch.

Wheelchair is not accessible. This tour involves a lot of walking. If you have trouble walking, we advise you not to book this tour.

Please note that we are unable to accommodate menu changes on the day of the tour.

Meeting point

Meet with a guide at Kyoto Station - Hachijo Exit Tourist Bus Parking Area (In Front of KYOTO AVANTI)

Higashikujo Nishisannocho, Minami Ward, Kyoto, 601-8003

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.