Nara Park, Osaka & Kobe from Kyoto Full Day tour

Kyoto , Japan

Nara Park, Osaka & Kobe from Kyoto Full Day tour

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(204 reviews)

10h

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

This guided tour offers an unforgettable adventure through some of Japan’s most renowned cultural and spiritual sites. You'll explore tranquil parks inhabited by gentle deer, awe-inspiring temples, and lively shrines, immersing yourself in the rich history and stunning beauty of Japan's ancient traditions. Visit the best of Osaka and get lost in the craziness of Dotonbori and its thousands of neons.

Available options

Nara, Osaka & Kobe

What's included

Bilingual guide in English and Spanish

Transportation from the meeting point

Detailed itinerary

Meet your guide at the Hotel Keihan Kyoto Grande, the starting point of a full-day journey through three of Japan’s most iconic cities: Nara, Osaka and Kobe. Board the comfortable tour bus and get ready for a day filled with culture, history, and scenic beauty.

Stop 2

Board the bus and enjoy a scenic ride as we journey from Kyoto to the historical city of Nara. ( Travel time to Nara: 1 hour approx.)

Visit the impressive Tōdaiji Temple, home to the Great Buddha. Then take a walk through Nara Park, where over 1,000 friendly deer roam freely. You’ll have plenty of time to explore, take photos, interact with the deer, and enjoy a lunch break if desired.

Relax on the bus as we leave the calmness of Nara behind and head toward the exciting city of Osaka. (Travel time to Dotonbori: 1 hour approx. )

Enjoy free time in Dotonbori, Osaka’s vibrant food and entertainment district. Try local street food like takoyaki and okonomiyaki, see the neon Glico sign, and take in the lively canal-side atmosphere.

Stop 4

As we drive toward Osaka Castle, you may be able to glimpse Tsutenkaku Tower from the bus window—an iconic symbol of old Osaka. (Travel time to Osaka Castle: 30 minutes approx.)

Walk through Osaka Castle Park and admire the exterior of the historic Osaka Castle. Take photos of the stone walls, moats, and impressive main tower (no interior visit). The surrounding gardens provide a relaxing and picturesque setting.

Stop 5

Enjoy free time in the city of the world’s most famous beef.

Board the bus for a comfortable ride back to Kyoto after a fulfilling day exploring some of Japan’s cultural highlights.

From here, you can return to your hotel or continue enjoying the evening in Kyoto.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Entrance fees to monuments

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.2

9 reviews

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4★

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Tripadvisor 4.8

195 reviews

5★

168

4★

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1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Not provided infant seats.

Meeting point

Please meet the guide at the meeting point, outside the Hotel Keihan Kyoto Grande. The guide will be waiting with a sign of Amigo Tours. Please arrive at least 10 minutes before the departure time for the check-in.

Important notes

- Please show your voucher to the guide for the check-in before you get on the bus.
- This phone +81 0120-587-697 will only be valid for domestic calls. For international calls outside Japan it will be+525555227749

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.