Discover the cultural wonders of Kyoto and Nara in just three captivating days. This expertly curated tour immerses you in Japan’s rich heritage, showcasing iconic sites like the stunning Fushimi Inari Shrine and the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. With a local guide leading the way, you’ll unveil the secrets behind these remarkable landmarks and indulge in delectable local cuisine. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Japan enthusiast, this compact adventure promises an unforgettable experience that’ll leave you craving more.
Key Points
- Explore the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, Sanjusangendo Temple, and Gion district in Kyoto on Day 1.
- Discover the natural wonders of Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Tenryuji Temple, and Kinkakuji in Kyoto on Day 2.
- Venture to the historic city of Nara to visit Nara Deer Park, Todaiji Temple, and Kasuga Grand Shrine on Day 3.
- Experience a 3-day guided tour of Kyoto and Nara for $1,454.11 per group (up to 5 participants).
- Enjoy flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance with no upfront payment required.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This 3-day itinerary allows visitors to experience the highlights of Kyoto and Nara with a local guide.
Priced at $1,454.11 per group of up to 5 participants, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Flexible booking with no upfront payment required makes it convenient.
Over the 3 days, guests will explore iconic sites like Fushimi Inari Shrine, Nara Deer Park, and Kinkakuji Golden Pavilion, with admission fees included.
Customization is available, and dietary requirements can be accommodated. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour utilizes public transportation and occasional taxi rides.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Kyoto.
Day 1 Highlights
The first day of the Kyoto and Nara highlights tour begins with a meet-up at the hotel or station.
Visitors will then head to the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, where they’ll climb the 1,000 vibrant orange torii gates.
Next, they’ll explore the stunning Sanjusangendo Temple, home to 1,001 statues of the Buddhist deity Kannon.
After a lunch stop at the bustling Nishiki Market, the tour winds through the charming Gion district, known for its traditional wooden machiya townhouses and geisha culture.
With a full day of sightseeing, travelers get a taste of Kyoto’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Day 2 Highlights
On the second day, visitors explore the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and the impressive Tenryuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Surrounded by towering bamboo stalks, guests wander the tranquil forest paths before visiting Tenryuji, one of Kyoto’s five great Zen temples.
After a lunch break, the tour continues to the iconic Kinkakuji, or Golden Pavilion, a Zen temple whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf, reflecting magnificently in the pond below.
From the temple’s serene gardens, guests soak in the stunning natural and architectural beauty that defines Kyoto.
Day 3 Highlights
After exploring the serene Kyoto sights on the previous two days, visitors embark on a day trip to the historic city of Nara.
The itinerary includes:
-
Wandering through the Nara Deer Park, where friendly deer roam freely and can be hand-fed.
-
Marveling at the impressive Todaiji Temple, home to the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue.
-
Visiting the picturesque Kasuga Grand Shrine, known for its distinctive lanterns and ancient woodland setting.
At the end of the day, the group returns to Kyoto, having experienced the tranquility and cultural richness of both ancient capitals.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyInclusions and Exclusions
Though the tour includes guiding services, hotel pickup, customization fees, lunch for guests and the guide, as well as admission fees for guests, it excludes personal expenses, souvenirs, public transportation tickets, taxi fees (if needed), food, drinks, and snacks. The inclusions and exclusions can be summarized in the following table:
Inclusions | Exclusions |
---|---|
Guiding services | Personal expenses |
Hotel pickup | Souvenirs |
Customization fee | Public transportation tickets |
Lunch for guests and guide | Taxi fees (if needed) |
Admission fees for guests | Food, drinks, and snacks |
Important Information and Customization
The tours are highly customizable, with starting and ending times that can be adjusted to suit the preferences of each group.
Special dietary requests can also be accommodated with prior notice. The tours involve a fair amount of walking, so it’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes.
Key customization options include:
- Adjustable start and end times to fit your schedule.
- Accommodations for dietary restrictions like vegetarian or allergy-friendly meals.
- Flexibility in transportation, with options ranging from public transit to private vans.
Restrictions and Recommendations
Visitors should be mindful of a few restrictions during the tour. Consuming alcohol, taking drugs, and chewing gum are strictly prohibited. Plus, going barefoot isn’t allowed.
To ensure comfort, it’s recommended to bring socks. The tour involves a fair amount of walking, so wearing comfortable shoes is essential.
While the tour provides admission fees for guests, personal expenses, souvenirs, public transportation tickets, and additional fees for taxis or private vans are excluded.
Special dietary requests can be accommodated with prior notice. Adhering to these guidelines will help make the Kyoto and Nara tour a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Flexible Booking and Cancellation Policy
Travelers can reserve their spot on the Kyoto and Nara tour without any upfront payment, allowing them to plan their trip with flexibility.
The tour offers three key advantages:
-
Free Cancellation: Guests can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind in case plans change.
-
Pay Later: There’s no need to pay the full amount upfront, making it easier to budget and secure the tour.
-
Customization Options: The itinerary can be adjusted to suit individual preferences, ensuring a personalized experience.
This flexible booking and cancellation policy caters to the needs of modern travelers, making the Kyoto and Nara tour an attractive option.
FAQ
Are There Any Discounts for Seniors or Children?
The tour doesn’t explicitly mention any discounts for seniors or children. However, the price is quoted per group (up to 5 participants), so larger groups may be able to split the cost.
Can We Customize the Itinerary to Visit Specific Attractions?
Yes, the tour is customizable – the starting and ending times can be adjusted, and special dietary requests can be accommodated with prior notice. Guests can request to visit specific attractions during the 3-day itinerary.
How Do We Get to the Starting Point of the Tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup, so travelers won’t need to worry about getting to the starting point. The guide will meet them at their hotel or a nearby station to begin the 3-day Kyoto and Nara adventure.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
The tour can accommodate up to 5 participants per group. The price is from $1,454.11 per group, making it an affordable option for small parties to explore the highlights of Kyoto and Nara with a local guide.
Are There Any Optional Activities or Add-Ons Available?
The tour offers flexible customization options, allowing guests to add optional activities or experiences to the itinerary based on their interests and preferences. Special dietary requests can also be accommodated with prior notice.
Sum Up
This 3-day tour offers a comprehensive introduction to the cultural gems of Kyoto and Nara. With a knowledgeable local guide, travelers will enjoy iconic sites, savor delectable cuisine, and experience the rich history and traditions of these captivating destinations. Flexible booking and expert guidance ensure a seamless, memorable journey through Japan’s enchanting landscapes and timeless heritage.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Tour Reviews in Kyoto
- The Art of Geisha: Exclusive Show & Traditional Japanese Game
- Tea Ceremony With Kimono and Professional Photoshoot in Kyoto
- Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Hidden Hiking Tour
- Kyoto Early Morning Walking Tour: Nature & History
- Small-Group Dinner Experience in Kyoto With Maiko and Geisha
- Private Kyoto Night Tour: Historic Walk at Gion and Fushimi
Not for you? Here's more things to do in Kyoto we have recnetly reviewed
- 5 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Kyoto
- 14 Best Dining Experiences In Kyoto
- 20 Best Full-Day Tours In Kyoto
- 5 Best 2 Day Tours In Kyoto
- 2 Best 4 Day Tours In Kyoto
- 20 Best Photography Experiences In Kyoto
- 13 Best Dinner Tours In Kyoto
- 25 Best Food Tours In Kyoto
- 14 Best Lunch Experiences In Kyoto
- Kyoto Bus Tour: Iconic KInkakuji, Ginkakuji, Kiyomizu Temple (AW)
- Kyoto Bus Tour: Arashiyama, Kinkaku-ji Review
- Gyoza Cooking Class in Kyoto: Traditional Japanese Dumplings