KYOTO and NARA TOUR with FREE ENTRANCE FEE(DRIVER ONLY)

Kyoto , Japan

KYOTO and NARA TOUR with FREE ENTRANCE FEE(DRIVER ONLY)

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(1 reviews)

10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This is a full day Kyoto-Nara Private Tour. Tour starts in Nara Park then heads towards Todaiji Temple to see the Great Buddha. Then you will proceed to the magnificent Kinkakuji Temple or the great pavilion.
The next stop is the beautiful scenery of Arashiyama Bamboo forest then head to our last stop which is the Fushimi Inari Shrine.
- Explore Nara Park and get to see and experience feeding of the Deers.
-Visit a UNESCO World Heritage site the Todaiji Temple and get to see the 15
meters tall Great Bronze Buddha and the largest wooden structure in the world.
-Pass by the beauty and calmness of Kagami Ike Pond.
-Walk through the cylindrical pillars in a variety colors and patterns in Kimono forest while making your way through the magestical Arashiyama Bamboo Forest.
-Walk through the history of over 10,000 torii gates and see innumerable fox statues in Fushimi Inami shrine. Come and Pray for fruitful harvests, business success and other blessings.

Available options

KYOTO and NARA TOUR with FREE ENTRANCE FEE(DRIVER ONLY)

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Nara is the ancient capital of Japan is a wonderful place to visit, filled with history, nature, and fresh air aplenty. The main sight-seeing area — which has Shintō shrines, some of Japan’s oldest Buddhist temples, expansive parks, and amazing views. There are also lots of foods stalls and souvenir shops.

Stop 2

Still in Nara Park you can see hundreds and hundreds of Deers. In Shinto these deers are sacred-believed to be the messenger og Gods-and allowed to roam free.
In here, guests can freely feed the deers, take photos, and feel their gentle eyes and family gestures. When you see them they will bow at you. You can also buy deer crackers worth ¥200.

Stop 3

Guests will be able to see the great Bronze Buddha and the longest wooden structure in the world. Inside the building, guests will walk around the buddha, admire the golden decorations and statues. Behind the Todaiji's Buddha, there was a thick wood with a tunnel through it that is the size of buddha's nostrils, big enough for a thin child or adult to pass through. To those who passed the tunnel will attain enlightenment.

Stop 4

Also known as the Golden Pavilion.
Each of the 3 stories of Kinkaku-ji have a specific meaning; the bottom level represents the heian period, the second embodies the samurai warrior spirit in the details, and the third is the Zen floor. Guests are not allowed to go inside the Pavilion but there's a lot more to see outside the pavilion.
You will see the statues that designate a coin toss to gain luck.

Kimono forest, it is a collection of gorgeous cylinder-shaped pillars framing the lane. Six hundred brightly poles decorated with kyoto-yuzen designs line the square, making it relaxing place for visitors.

Stop 6

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.

The bamboo grove is a 400 meter long narrow street surrounded by bamboos.It is one of Kyoto's most popular sightseeing spots.
These bamboos are tall and growing towards the sky, you will feel calm in this peaceful atmosphere.

Stop 7

It is one of the most iconic and oldest shrine. It is dedicated to the God of rice and sake in the 8th century, also features dozens of foxes statues.
Approximately there are 10,000 toriu gates ang guide will accompany guests through halfway at the Yotsusuji intersection and enjoy the panoramic view of Kyoto.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

JA FIL EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Private tour activity. Only your group can participate

This is a 10 hrs duration Day tour that includes travel time.

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.