Nara and Kyoto 1-Day Bus Tour
Active
8h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Embark on a captivating journey from Kyoto to Nara. Don't miss Nara's must-see landmarks and experience authentic matcha tea making in Uji, the birthplace of matcha.
First, we'll drive past historic Fushimi Castle and Heijo Palace ruins on our way to Nara.
Visit Todaiji Temple, home to one of the world's largest Buddha statues. Stroll through Nara Park, mingling with 1,400 friendly deer, and savor the moment as they bow to you in greeting.
Next, immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of Kasuga Taisha Shrine, adorned with 3,000 magical stone lanterns that create an otherworldly atmosphere.
After lunch, we'll head to the Uji area in Kyoto to experience authentic matcha tea making in its birthplace. Don't miss the stunning Byodo-in Phoenix Hall, the very temple depicted on Japan's 10-yen coin.
- Professional English-speaking guide accompanies the entire tour
- Meet one of the world's largest Great Buddha statues up close
- Feed the adorable deer at Nara Park and watch them bow
Available options
With Lunch
Buffet Lunch
Without Lunch
What's included
A Professional English Speaking Tour Guide
WiFi on board
Bus
Japanese Lunch (optional)
Multilingual Audio Guidance (English, Spanish, French, Italian, Deutsch, Portuguese, Ukrainian)
Uji Matcha Making Experience
Admission to Todaiji Temple, Byodo-in Temple, Nara Park
Detailed itinerary
1
7:50 Meet up and check in
8:00 Departure from Kyoto station (In front of Tully’s Coffee at Kyoto Avanti)
Drive by Fushimi castle, Heijo palace
*The allotted time for transportation is not included in the total duration of the itinerary. The remaining hours are allotted for the travel time.
2
Stop 2
9:30-10:30
・Visit the one the world's largest gilt bronze Great Buddha statue
・Explore the Great Buddha Hall - one of the world's largest wooden buildings
3
Stop 3
11:45-12:45
・Meet and feed approximately 1,400 friendly deer roaming the park
・Experience the famous "bowing deer" - they bow when you bow to them!
Kasuga Taisha Shrine - UNESCO World Heritage Site
・Visit Nara's most celebrated Shinto shrine
・Marvel at over 3,000 magical stone lanterns lining the pathways
4
Stop 4
2:00-15:00
・See the famous Phoenix Hall featured on Japan's 10-yen coin
・Explore Omotesando street with various matcha treats and souvenirs
5
15:15-16:00
・Learn traditional matcha preparation techniques
・Grind premium tea leaves and create your own matcha
・Taste the unique flavor of freshly ground matcha
6
Stop 6
Pass by
16:30 End of tour
*The schedule may change significantly depending on traffic conditions.
*The allotted time for transportation is not included in the total duration of the itinerary. The remaining hours are allotted for the travel time.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Audio guide
DE
PT
UK
EN
IT
FR
ES
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
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
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
*The schedule may change significantly depending on traffic conditions.
*The allotted time for transportation is not included in the total duration of the itinerary. The remaining hours are allotted for the travel time.
Meeting point
In front of Tully's Coffee in Kyoto Avanti near Kyoto station
31 Higashikujo Nishisannocho, Kyoto , 601-8003 Kyoto, JP
Important notes
【Notice & Remarks】
* Itinerary order is subject to change depending on traffic, weather or any operational reasons.
* If any of the visiting places is closed, we will try to attend an alternative place.
* The lunch/restaurant may change due to operational reasons.
* We do not supply any extra pick up & drop off service.
* This tour requires customers to walk around. Comfortable shoes are recommendable.
* Customers who need Lunch options will be charged more for changes on the day, therefore please select with
lunch option in advance
* If you are late for the tour start time, you will not be able to join the tour mid-way.
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.
$177
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
