Himeji Castle Guided Tour and Premium Kobe Beef Lunch Luxury Tour
Active
8h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
*The photos of Himeji Castle are of Courtesy of Himeji City
Experience the king of gourmet, Kobe beef, and the majesty of World Heritage Himeji Castle on this exclusive day tour from Kyoto. Travel in style aboard our deluxe bus, offering the comfort of airplane business class. Relax as our professional attendant serves a complimentary selection of premium sake and soft drinks.
For lunch, savor an exquisite Kobe beef meal at a restaurant that raises its own cattle. Afterward, visit the majestic Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, guided by a local expert.
After a memorable day, we will accompany you by bus to Himeji Station and provide you with a train ticket to return to Kyoto or Osaka on your own (ticket included in the price).
- Transportation by deluxe bus from Kyoto to Himeji
- Return ticket to Kyoto or Osaka by shinkansen (bullet train)
- Farm-to-table Kobe beef lunch
- Himeji Castle with expert local guide
Available options
Return train ticket to Kyoto
Return train ticket to Kyoto: At the end of the tour we will accompany you by bus to Himeji JR Station & give you a train ticket to go to Kyoto on your own
Return train ticket to Osaka
Return train ticket to Osaka: At the end of the tour we will accompany you by bus to Himeji JR Station & give you a train ticket to go to Osaka on your own
What's included
English-speaking service attendant
USB plugs on board
WiFi on board
Selection of complimentary sake, alcoholic and soft drinks on board
Amenities
Return Shinkansen (bullet train) ticket : Himeji → Osaka/Kyoto
High-quality Kobe Beef BBQ.
Restroom on board
Himeji Castle's entrance fee and guided tour.
Detailed itinerary
1
Restaurant Tatsuki receives fresh meat daily from its meat shop ensuring the best condition for serving. They provide customers with the best Kobe Beef, as they raise the cattle on their farm, sell the meat, and cook it at their own restaurant. The meat they serve is almost 100% Kobe Beef. They focus on the quality and freshness of the meat, and the chef prepares the sauce according to his own recipe. You will enjoy different cuts of excellent Kobe Beef in their Yakiniku-style dining.
2
Stop 2
Pass by
On our way to Himeji Castle, we will pass by the majestic Koko-en Garden.
3
Stop 3
Visit Himeji Castle, a World Heritage Site, with an experienced English guide. Himeji Castle is one of the 12 original castles in Japan that remains untouched by war and natural disasters, preserving its traditional appearance. Explore the same floors that samurai once walked 400 years ago and immerse yourself in the atmosphere while listening to our special guide's castle trivia that even locals don't know.
4
After visiting Himeji castle we will accompany you by bus to Himeji JR Station and our attendant will purchase and give you the shinkansen (bullet train) ticket to your preferred end point.
What's not included
Hotel pick up and drop off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
2 reviews
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Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Only passengers who are able to walk up the bus stairs and to their seats autonomously can participate in the tour.
Please note that only one large luggage (20-23 kg) per person can be stored in the bus trunk. You may carry your small bags with you to your seat.
Please note that if you are late for the tour start time or for an activity during the tour, you will not be able to join the tour midway.
Please note that the total duration of the trip includes the travel time.
The vehicle used is a deluxe bus designed by the famous industrial designer, Eiji Mitooka. The interior is made of wood materials to recreate the essence of Japanese harmony and aesthetics.
Selected skilled bus driver.
English-speaking service attendant on board.
We recommend arriving 10 minutes before departure.
Important note: we only serve alcoholic drinks for travelers 20 years old and above. Minor travelers below 20 years old will be served non-alcoholic drinks.
Please be aware that the return time is an estimate and may vary depending on traffic conditions along the way.
Please be aware that Himeji Castle has many steps. Additionally, you will be required to remove your shoes inside the castle, so we recommend bringing a pair of socks.
You may leave this tour upon the arrival at Himeji Station.
Meeting point
Exit the JR Lines (Hachijo East Side) ticket gates and leave the station. Cross the street and proceed straight towards KYOTO AVANTI. Turn left and cross the street again, heading towards the Tourist Bus Terminal. Our bus attendant will be waiting for you in front of our blue bus.
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.
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
