Kyoto and Nara 1-Day Bus Tour from Osaka or Kyoto

About this experience

Begin your day from VIP Lounge in Osaka or Kyoto. Your journey begins in Nara, Japan’s ancient capital. Discover the beauty of Nara Park, a historic landmark reflecting the city’s timeless charm. Continue to Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, home to the 15-meter Great Buddha inside the world’s largest wooden structure. Next, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Walk amidst towering stalks and feel the tranquil atmosphere as sunlight filters through the grove. Free time for lunch (note: location may shift to Fushimi Inari depending on traffic). Lunch Option features world-famous Kobe beef celebrated for its tenderness & rich flavor. You can choose: Shabu-shabu, Sukiyaki, or Beef Rice Bowl. For vegetarian, a flavorful Vegetarian Curry is also available. Continue to Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion. Admire its gold-leaf exterior and serene garden. Finally, visit the world-famous Fushimi Inari Shrine, with its thousands of vermilion torii gates up Mount Inari.

What to expect

1. Stop 1 · 40min

   Enjoy a relaxing walk through one of Japan's oldest public parks, surrounded by beautiful seasonal scenery and historic landmarks in the heart of Nara.

2. Stop 2 · 40min

   Visit Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan's most important Buddhist temples. Home to the Great Buddha and the Great Buddha Hall—the world's largest historic wooden building—it is one of Nara's most iconic cultural landmarks. Time permitting, guests will have the opportunity to visit Todai-ji Temple. The itinerary may be adjusted depending on traffic and operational conditions.

3. Stop 3 · 1h

   Immerse yourself in the enchanting charm of Arashiyama. Visit to the renowned Bamboo Grove, a magical forest of towering green stalks that create a serene and otherworldly atmosphere. Wander through this captivating path, where the light filters through the dense bamboo, creating a unique and tranquil experience. For travelers who choose the no-meal option, you will have a total of 120 minutes in Arashiyama to explore local dining options and enjoy the picturesque surroundings at your own pace. For Travelers Who Have Selected the Lunch Option: Enjoy 50 minutes for lunch at Kyoto Shokujidokoro Wasabi, followed by 60 minutes for Arashiyama.

4. Stop 4 · 10min

   Take in scenic views from Arashiyama's iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, overlooking the Katsura River and surrounded by breathtaking seasonal landscapes.

5. Stop 5 · 10min

   The "Arashiyama Kimono Forest" in English is called Kimono Forest. It is a public art installation located at Randen Arashiyama Station in Kyoto. The installation features a pathway lined with numerous cylindrical pillars, each wrapped in vibrant kimono fabric encased in clear acrylic.

6. Stop 6 · 40min

   Walk through one of Japan's most famous bamboo groves, where thousands of towering bamboo stalks rise on both sides of the path, creating a unique natural corridor. As sunlight filters through the bamboo and the leaves sway in the breeze, visitors can experience one of Kyoto's most iconic landscapes.

7. Stop 7 · 40min

   Visit to Kinkaku-ji Temple, the Golden Pavilion, a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its dazzling golden exterior and serene gardens. Your ticket is included!

8. Stop 8 · 1h 20min

   Explore Fushimi Inari Taisha, the head shrine of over 30,000 Inari shrines throughout Japan. Renowned for its endless tunnels of vibrant vermilion torii gates winding through Mount Inari, it is one of Kyoto's most iconic attractions and a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world.

Tour & ticket options

Options may have different inclusions and meeting points. Choose your option when booking on Viator.

Meeting & pickup

• In front of Kyoto VIP Lounge Departure (Meeting Time 09:00AM / Departure Time 09:10AM) *5-minute walk from Kyoto Station Hachijo West Exit (八条西口)* *Check out the photo reference of the meeting point on our product page. The guide will be holding a blue flag.
• Osaka VIP Villa Namba Departure (Meeting Time: 07:50am / Departure Time: 08:00am) *3-min walk from subway Midosuji Line Namba Station Exit 7* *Check out the photo reference of the meeting point on our product page. The guide will be holding a blue flag.

Tour schedule and order of sightseeing spots may change depending on local traffic conditions or other unforeseen circumstances. Meeting Points: Osaka VIP Villa Namba Departure (Meeting Time: 07:50AM／Departure Time: 08:00AM) 3-minute walk from subway Midosuji Line Namba Station Exit 7. Kyoto VIP Lounge Departure (Meeting Time: 09:00AM／Departure Time: 09:10AM) 5min walk from Kyoto Station Hachijonishiguchi Exit (Hachijo West Exit). ※Location reference photo available on product page. Kindly verify your meeting point in advance and arrive 10-15 minutes before the departure time. Please check the participants list with our guide to confirm your name. If you wish to get off at Kyoto/Osaka, please kindly let us know beforehand. Please adhere to the scheduled time, as we cannot accommodate delays or wait for any reason. The tour will depart promptly as scheduled to respect everyone’s time. Refunds will not be issued for no show, late arrivals or arrivals at the wrong location, even if contact is made prior to departure. In general, we do not send out confirmation emails prior to departure. If you would like more information, please notify us at least 2 days before departure for assistance. Contact number may be unavailable outside business hours (Monday–Friday, 9:30AM–6:30PM JST).

Before you go

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• The tour schedule may change without prior notice due to weather, road traffic conditions, and other unforeseen reasons. (There might be delays in returning to the designated location. If the tour is cancelled by the supplier due to extreme weather or natural disaster, you will receive a full refund.
• This tour will depart regardless of weather or traffic conditions, unless you are notified otherwise by the local operator. Trip Advisor / Viator and your local tour operator will not be responsible for itinerary changes due to unforeseen circumstances.
• Depending on the number of participants, English and Chinese commentary might be given in the same bus.
• Infants under 3 years old are free of charge without seat. If a seat is required, please book with children's price
• Please arrive 10 minutes before at your selected meeting point, as your assigned bus & guide will be based on that specific location. The guide has a list of participants for each bus & may not be able to accommodate guests who arrive at a different meeting point. Late arrival or arrival at the wrong location will miss the tour, & refund won't be issued. If you'd like to change your meeting point or unsure about the meeting point, pls notify us at least 2 days before departure for assistance.
• The bus will be departing on time (no exception).
• Please adhere to the scheduled time. We are unable to accommodate delays or wait for any reason. The tour will depart promptly as scheduled to respect all customers' time.
• In case of late arrival or arrival at wrong location, regardless of contact prior to the departure time, refunds may not be granted.
• Regarding luggage, we allow one piece of luggage per person during the excursion. Please also ensure that the luggage is manageable and fits comfortably within our vehicle. Please also be aware that any items stored in the trunk will not be accessible in between stops on the tour, so keep all valuables with you.
• In general, we do not send out confirmation emails prior to departure. If you would like more information or need to clarify something, please contact us and we will send you the relevant details.
• Upon arrival, please confirm your name with the guide or staff on the participant list.
• Contact number may be unavailable outside business hours (Monday–Friday, 9:30AM–6:30PM JST).

Cancellation policy

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