From Kyoto / Osaka: Kyoto Must-see Spots & Nara Park One Day Tour

About this experience

Embark on a journey through time in Kyoto and Nara, where tradition blends harmoniously with modernity. In Nara Park, encounter the free-roaming deer that charmingly bow to you in hopes of a treat. Explore the magnificent torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine, and visit the Arashiyama area, which includes the serene Bamboo Forest, Nonomiya Shrine, UNESCO World Heritage Site Tenryu-ji Temple, the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, Arashiyama Rilakkuma Tea House and the beautiful Kimono Forest. Depart from Osaka or Kyoto, experience a magical fusion of nature and history with our friendly and professional guide.

Itinerary

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1. Stop 1

   Duration: 60 min

   Nara Park is one of the must-see areas in Nara City and is one of the oldest parks in Japan. The vast area covers 660 hectares and is renowned for its free-roaming deer and world-famous temples. These tame creatures are believed to be sacred messengers of the Shinto gods and walk freely in Nara. Over time, these cute deers have learned to bow to visitors-a sign for a treat. For over 1,300 years, humans and deer have peacefully coexisted in Nara. Today, they are protected as Natural Monuments, and revered as holy animals in Nara.

2. Stop 2

   Duration: 70 min

   There are around 30,000 Inari shrines in Japan, Fushimi Inari Taisha is the head shrine, to worship the Shinto god of rice, Inari. The shrine is renowned for Senbon Torii, thousands of vermilion red torii gates, which create a stunning and immersive tunnel-like pathway up the sacred Mount Inari. In the 1300 years since its establishment in 711AD, people have gathered here to pray for bountiful harvests, business prosperity, the safety of their home and family, and the fulfillment of all other wishes.

3. Stop 3

   Duration: 50 min

   The bamboo forests of Arashiyama are a must-see when visiting Kyoto, serving as a symbol of the city. This stunning and serene natural attraction is known for its towering bamboo stalks and tranquil ambiance. Walking along the peaceful paths surrounded by lush greenery will help put your mind at ease. You can truly feel time slow down as you take in the beauty of nature. The groves are especially captivating when a light breeze dances through, causing the tall bamboo stalks to sway gently back and forth.

4. Stop 4

   Duration: 20 min

   Nonomiya Shrine is a Shinto shrine in the Arashiyama district on the west side of the city of Kyoto. Unlike most shrines that feature iconic vermilion torii gates, Nonomiya Shrine has a distinctive black torii gate known as a kuroki torii. Despite its small size, the shrine has a lengthy history, founded in antiquity as a purification shrine for imperial princesses who were appointed as priestesses for Ise Shrine. Nonomiya Shrine has a reputation for helping and interceding on behalf of women, and many parishioners are women who want to find love or wish for children and a safe childbirth. Many of the omamori on sale at the shrine reflect the theme of women’s happiness, and you can find a variety of amulets available at the shrine office.

5. Stop 5

   Duration: 20 min

   The Kimono Forest is a distinctive textile art installation made up of 600 clear acrylic cylinders, each standing 2 meters tall. These pillars are adorned with vibrant kimono fabrics featuring a range of designs, from elegant floral patterns to geometric shapes and traditional Japanese symbols. The installation showcases 32 traditional Kyo-yuzen designs. The Kimono Forest is a must-see attraction that provides a unique and enchanting perspective on traditional Japanese textiles and craftsmanship.

6. Stop 6

   Duration: 20 min

   Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a true gem of the Arashiyama district in Kyoto and is ranked as the top among the city's five great Zen temples. While visiting Tenryu-ji, be sure to experience the stunning Sogenchi Garden. Designed by the renowned Zen master Muso Soseki, this garden has maintained its timeless beauty over the years. The picturesque landscape features a central pond surrounded by rocks, pine trees, and the forested mountains of Arashiyama.

7. Stop 7

   Duration: 20 min

   “Rilakkuma”means“Bear in a relaxed mood.” Rilakkuma is someone impossible to be hated by others. It’s a lovely place to wander around and the Rilakkuma cafe & shop blend in beautifully. You will be drawn into Rilakkuma’s world, where you’ll embrace a lazy and relaxed lifestyle while enjoying everything Rilakkuma does. The first floor features a variety of exclusive items related to Rilakkuma that can only be found in Japan. The second floor is a café that offers lunch, drinks, and snacks, accompanied by cute Rilakkuma character. There are also Rilakkuma plushies on the tables to take photos with.

8. Stop 8

   Duration: 20 min

   The Togetsukyo Bridge is the most iconic landmark in Arashiyama. Originally built during the Heian Period (794-1185), it was reconstructed most recently in the 1930s. This famous bridge spans the Katsura River and provides picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and riverscape.

What's included

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• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Guide

What's not included

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• Lunch
• Tenryuji Temple Ticket: 500 yen

Additional information

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• 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
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Please indicate when booking if you're traveling with stroller or large luggage.
• Please inform us at least one day in advance if you have placed an order separately from your relatives or friends. This will help avoid the situation where you and your companions are assigned to different vehicles.
• Not recommended for travelers who use wheelchairs

Cancellation policy

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