Kyoto Arashiyama Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine and Nara Park Tour

Discover the enchanting beauty of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks on the Arashiyama Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine and Nara Park Tour. Explore the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, then marvel at the stunning Kinkakuji Temple. Hike the scenic trails of Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, adorned with thousands of vermilion torii gates, before encountering friendly deer at Nara Park. This tour offers a captivating blend of natural wonders, cultural heritage, and unforgettable experiences. What awaits you in this enchanting journey?

Key Points

• This Kyoto tour highlights the iconic Kinkakuji Temple, the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and the revered Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine with its famous torii gates.
• Visitors can also explore Nara Park, home to friendly deer and the impressive Todaiji Temple.
• The tour provides convenient transportation and is accessible for families with strollers and wheelchairs.
• The maximum group size is 30 for a personalized experience.
• Admission to Kinkakuji Temple is included in the tour package.

Tour Highlights

Explore the serene beauty of Kyoto’s Arashiyama district and discover the tranquility of Nara Park on this captivating tour.

Visit the iconic Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, and marvel at its stunning golden facade.

Hike through the picturesque Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering bamboo stalks sway in the breeze.

Venture to the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, renowned for its vermilion torii gates winding up the mountainside.

In Nara Park, encounter the friendly deer that roam freely, and explore the magnificent Todaiji Temple, home to the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue.

Kinkakuji Temple: The Golden Pavilion

Located in northwest Kyoto, the Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a must-see highlight of the tour. This stunning three-story pavilion is covered in gold leaf and sits atop a pond, reflecting beautifully on the water’s surface. Visitors can admire the temple’s architecture, which blends Zen and Shinto influences. The grounds also feature carefully manicured gardens, adding to the serene atmosphere.

Fact	Detail
Construction	Built in 1397 as a retirement villa for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu
Design	Features three distinct architectural styles: Dharma Hall (first floor), Shinden style (second floor), and Bukke style (third floor)
Significance	One of Kyoto’s most popular landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Damage	Partially destroyed by fire in 1950, but later reconstructed
Admission	Included in the tour package

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

After visiting the iconic Kinkakuji Temple, the tour continues to the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.

Towering bamboo stalks sway gently in the breeze, casting a tranquil, verdant ambiance. Visitors can stroll along the winding paths, taking in the sights and sounds of this natural wonder.

The dense grove offers a peaceful respite from the bustling city. Sunlight filters through the bamboo, creating a mesmerizing play of light and shadow.

Photographers revel in the opportunity to capture the grove’s serene beauty. The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a true highlight of the Kyoto tour.

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

The iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, dedicated to the Shinto god of rice, sits atop a wooded mountain. Visitors ascend through a series of vermilion torii gates, creating a mesmerizing path up the mountain. At the summit, they are rewarded with panoramic views of Kyoto. The shrine is known for its thousands of these iconic gates, donated by individuals and businesses. Guests can explore the tranquil forests, snap photos, and experience the serene atmosphere at this revered Shinto site.

Shrine Features	Details
Vermilion Gates	Donated by individuals and businesses
Hiking Trails	Winding paths through the forest
Panoramic Views	Overlooking the city of Kyoto

Exploring Nara Park

From Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, the tour continues to Nara Park, a vast expanse of greenery renowned for its friendly deer population.

Visitors can engage in several activities:

1. Hand-feeding the deer treats, which are sold throughout the park.
2. Exploring the historic temples and shrines, including the famous Todaiji Temple, home to the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue.
3. Admiring the scenic beauty of the park’s natural landscape, with towering trees and serene ponds.

Immersed in the peaceful atmosphere, travelers can connect with the local wildlife and cultural heritage of Nara.

Transportation and Accessibility

As the tour begins, participants are conveniently picked up from the VIP Villa Namba meeting point in Osaka.

The tour provides transportation throughout the day, ensuring a seamless experience. Accessibility is also a priority, with the tour being stroller and wheelchair friendly.

Infants can sit on laps, and children under 3 can join for free without occupying a seat. Most travelers can participate, making the tour inclusive.

With a maximum of 30 people, the group size allows for a more personalized experience.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Confirmation is received at the time of booking, allowing travelers to secure their spot on the tour.

The booking process offers flexibility, with the option to reserve now and pay later. Plus, the tour provider offers a lowest price guarantee, ensuring customers get the best deal.

To summarize the booking and cancellation policy:

1. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts.
2. The tour is competitively priced at $105.00 per person.
3. Reserving now and paying later provides added convenience for travelers.

Preparing for the Tour

Travelers should plan to arrive at the meeting point, VIP Villa Namba, 15 minutes before the 8:00 a.m. departure time.

This tour is stroller and wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for families with young children. Infants must sit on laps, and children under 3 can attend for free.

The tour includes transportation, a guide, and admission to Kinkakuji Temple. Travelers should be prepared for a full day of sightseeing, wearing comfortable shoes and bringing any necessary personal items.

The tour will return to the meeting point at the end of the day, providing a convenient end to the experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, the tour doesn’t provide any meal or refreshment options, so travelers should plan accordingly to have their own snacks and beverages during the excursion.

Do I Need to Speak Japanese to Participate in the Tour?

No, you don’t need to speak Japanese to participate in the tour. The tour includes an English-speaking guide who will provide commentary and assistance throughout the experience, ensuring travelers can fully enjoy the sights without any language barriers.

Can I Leave the Tour Group and Explore on My Own?

Participants can explore on their own during the tour, but they should coordinate with the guide and rejoin the group at the designated meeting points. Leaving the group without notice is not recommended for safety and logistical reasons.

Is There a Discount for Senior Citizens or Students?

The tour doesn’t offer any discounts for senior citizens or students. The price of $105 per person is the standard rate regardless of age or student status. Customers can’t expect any special pricing for this tour.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour?

While the tour’s duration is fixed, guests can inquire about extending their time at the destinations. Additional fees may apply for extended stays or private arrangements beyond the scheduled tour itinerary.

Recap

Discover the natural beauty and cultural treasures of Kyoto on this comprehensive tour. From the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove to the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, this experience offers a glimpse into Japan’s rich heritage. Culminating at the deer-filled Nara Park, this tour provides an unforgettable journey through some of Kyoto’s most enchanting destinations.