Hidden Paths Kyoto and Nara Sakura Viewing Tour with Buffet Lunch
Active
9h
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
While visiting famous cherry blossom spots such as the Sewa-tei embankment and Nara Park, you can also see the Great Buddha at Tsubosaka-dera, surrounded by cherry blossoms, as well as the historic Great Buddha of Todai-ji. This course allows you to enjoy cherry blossom viewing while also savoring a healthy buffet lunch made with seasonal vegetables, suitable even for vegetarian visitors from abroad.
Available options
Hidden Paths Kyoto and Nara Sakura Viewing Tour with Buffet Lunch
What's included
Lunch
Air-conditioned vehicle
Admission Fee - Tsubosaka-dera and Todai-ji Temple (Great Buddha Hall)
Detailed itinerary
1
A row of Somei Yoshino cherry trees stretches for about 1.4 km. It is one of Japan's most famous cherry blossom spots and was ranked the number one must-visit hanami destination in the Kansai region. Please enjoy the beautiful scenery that comes with spring.
2
At the Japan Pavilion of the Osaka-Kansai Expo, they are showcasing the 'Flowing Bridge,' which is designed to reduce damage by allowing bridge girders to be washed away during floods and can be recovered and restored, as a demonstration of disaster prevention and mitigation wisdom.
A restaurant that mainly serves healthy and delicious obanzai made with plenty of fresh, safe, and secure vegetables from local farmers! The domestic pork shabu-shabu is also exquisite! At lunchtime, enjoy a buffet and fill up on your favorite dishes.
3
The sight of a three-story pagoda and a hall appearing amidst cherry blossoms spreading across the entire temple grounds is breathtaking, and the temple is called the 'Temple of Cherry Blossom Clouds.' The appearance of the Great Buddha enveloped in cherry blossoms, known as the 'Cherry Blossom Great Buddha,' is attracting attention as a new cherry blossom viewing spot in Nara. The temple is also dedicated to Kannon, who is believed to have miraculous powers for eye illnesses.
4
Stop 4
Nara Park is located at the foot of Mount Wakakusa and is a historic landmark adjacent to the Great Buddha of Todaiji Temple. About 1,300 wild deer live there, attracting many tourists from both Japan and abroad. The park itself has around 1,700 cherry trees on its flatlands alone and has been selected as one of Japan's top 100 cherry blossom spots. After visiting Todaiji Temple, feel free to enjoy a stroll around Nara Park.
What's not included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Seat and meal for infants
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The tour will be confirmed 14 days in advance. Please note that if the tour is canceled due to insufficient participants, even confirmed reservations will be canceled.
The bus departs on time. Late arrivals will not be permitted to join, and no refunds will be issued.
Infants and toddlers (0-5 years) can join free of charge if they sit on a guardian's lap and do not occupy a seat.
Meals for infants and toddlers (ages 0-5) are not included
Please inform us of any luggage or strollers when booking.
Please make your own way to the bus terminal.
Please arrive at least 20 minutes before departure for prompt boarding.
At each stop, the guide will display the return time. Please confirm it and return to the bus punctually. The bus will not wait for late returnees.
Though infants may ride along for free, an admission fee of 300 yen is required to be paid on-site if visiting the temple
Meeting point
Meeting Point: Near the H2 Bus Stop in front of Hotel Keihan Grande
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.
$131
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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