Osaka Day Trip by Private Car from Kyoto

Kyoto , Japan

Osaka Day Trip by Private Car from Kyoto

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About this experience

Explore Osaka's top landmarks in a single, efficient day. This tour takes you through the city's iconic sites including the historic Osaka Castle, the bustling Dotonbori District, and the serene Shitennoji Temple. Travel comfortably in a private vehicle, ensuring you avoid crowds and maximize your sightseeing. With an English-speaking local guide, gain unique insights into the history and culture of Osaka as you discover hidden gems like Shinsekai and enjoy practical travel tips along the way.

- Visit major attractions like Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, and more
- Benefit from a private vehicle for stress-free travel
- Learn about Osaka’s culture with an expert local guide
- Enjoy flexibility in the itinerary to suit your interests

Available options

Osaka Day Trip by Private Car from Kyoto

Pickup included

What's included

An local guide who speaks English.

Private transportation

Operational costs such as fuel or congestion charges.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

We begin our tour from Osaka Castle. It’s one of the most iconic spot of great historical significance in Osaka. We’ll traverse the park grounds, too, all the while talking about the history, architecture, and significance of the spot. Historically, the castle’s reconstruction has been somewhat indifferent, and we would recommend considering other options instead. Trust us. We spend about 75 minutes here.

Stop 2

Shitenno-ji, founded in 593 AD by Prince Shotoku, is recognized as Japan’s oldest official temple. With over 1,400 years of history, it stands as a symbol of the introduction of Buddhism to Japan. The temple’s unique layout—from the majestic central gate to the five-story pagoda and main hall—offers visitors a serene and spiritual experience.

Fun for all ages! This area retains the charming old-world streetscape of Osaka. You can enjoy games, food, and fashion (perhaps heavily skewed toward the eye of the beholder), along with the unique atmosphere that defines Osaka. Don't forget to visit the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower and immerse yourself in the lively, heartfelt spirit of this city. Our typical visit here usually lasts about 60 minutes.

Stop 4

Tennoji is home to the impressive Harukas, the tallest non-tower building in Japan, standing at 300 meters. This remarkable height offers stunning views of the surrounding area. While we in Osaka have heard about a tower in Tokyo that reaches biblical heights, we prefer to focus on our own attractions. We will not ascend to the very top of Harukas, but we will go high enough to enjoy a breathtaking view of Osaka, free of charge. On a clear day, we may even glimpse all the way to Kobe and beyond. We highly recommend taking a guided tour of the department store food hall, where we typically spend about half an hour exploring.

Dotonbori is Osaka’s most iconic entertainment and food district, famous for its dazzling neon signs like the Glico Man and the moving crab display. Along the lively canal, you’ll find countless street foods and local specialties such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu. At night, the reflections of neon lights on the water create a stunning atmosphere full of energy and excitement—this is the true face of Osaka.

Stop 6

Located in central Osaka, Kuromon Market is a beloved destination known as “Osaka’s Kitchen.” With around 150 vendors offering fresh seafood, meat, produce, sushi, tempura, and more, it’s a paradise for food lovers. Here, you can sample seasonal delicacies on the spot and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of local life.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Admissions (which range from zero to a few hundred yen or so, depending on if you change the plan)

Pickup if you are outside of central Kyoto

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

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

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.