Osaka: Kyoto Kiyomizudera & Nara Deer Sighting Day Trip

Embarking on a day trip from Osaka to explore the historic and culturally rich cities of Kyoto and Nara promises an unforgettable experience. Visitors can enjoy the timeless beauty of UNESCO-listed Kiyomizu-dera Temple, marvel at the vibrant torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine, and encounter the friendly sika deer roaming Nara Park. This compact excursion offers a well-curated itinerary, convenient transportation, and an intimate small group setting, ensuring an enriching and memorable journey. But the true highlights may just surprise you.

Key Points

• This day trip from Osaka takes you to visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto and the famous Nara Park to interact with sika deer.
• The 9-hour excursion is priced at $62.30 per person and includes transportation by bus/coach with a small group size limited to 9 participants.
• Highlights of the itinerary include a guided tour of the Fushimi Inari Shrine and a visit to the impressive Tōdai-ji Temple to see the Great Buddha statue.
• Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is offered for added convenience.
• Certain restrictions apply, such as no pregnant women, individuals over 80, or large bags allowed, and prompt arrival at the meeting point is essential.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Trip Overview and Pricing

The day trip from Osaka to Kyoto and Nara offers visitors a chance to explore two of Japan’s most iconic destinations at a reasonable price.

Priced from $62.30 per person, the 9-hour excursion allows travelers to visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Nara Park, and Tōdai-ji Temple.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, the tour provides flexibility.

Transportation is by bus/coach, and the small group size is limited to 9 participants.

Admission tickets, toll, and parking fees are included, though meals are at the traveler’s own expense.

Itinerary Highlights

Travelers on this day trip will start at the Nihonbashi Exit 2 in the Namba/Shinsaibashi area of Osaka.

The first stop is the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kiyomizu-dera Temple, known for its wooden stage and panoramic views.

Next, they’ll take a guided tour through the iconic Senbon Torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine.

After, the group will visit Nara Park to interact with the friendly sika deer.

The final destination is Tōdai-ji Temple to see the impressive Great Buddha statue.

Participants can also explore the nearby Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka, and Gion during free time.

Transportation and Logistics

This day trip is traveled by bus or coach, with 10 hours of car usage provided.

The group size is limited to 9 participants, ensuring a small and intimate experience. Guests must arrive 15 minutes early at the meeting point, 1-chōme-3-6 Nipponbashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, as late arrivals may miss the tour.

Toll and parking fees are covered, allowing for a seamless journey. Guests are advised to avoid large bags due to limited luggage space.

The departure time and itinerary may change during peak season due to potential traffic delays.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

One of the highlights of the day trip is a visit to the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

This iconic Buddhist temple is perched on a hillside, offering stunning views of Kyoto. Visitors can explore the main hall, which is supported by massive wooden pillars, and admire the intricate architecture and decorations.

The temple’s most famous feature is the "Kiyomizu-no-butai," a large veranda that juts out from the hillside, providing a breathtaking panorama of the city.

Guests will have around 20 minutes to wander the temple grounds and soak in the serene atmosphere.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

After exploring the historic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, the tour heads to the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine.

Dedicated to the Shinto god of rice, this shrine is renowned for its thousands of vibrant orange torii gates. Visitors can embark on a guided tour through the Senbon Torii, a breathtaking path of these gates winding up the mountain.

The tour spends about 70 minutes at this shrine, allowing travelers to enjoy the serene atmosphere and rich cultural significance of this important Shinto site.

The guided tour provides valuable insights into the shrine’s history and traditions.

Nara Park and Tōdai-ji Temple

From Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, the tour continues to the serene oasis of Nara Park.

Here, visitors can:

1. Observe the friendly sika deer roaming freely and even hand-feed them specially-sold deer crackers.
2. Visit the impressive Tōdai-ji Temple, home to the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue standing at over 15 meters tall.
3. Explore the temple’s grounds, including the Daibutsuden hall and the Nandaimon gate, both UNESCO World Heritage sites.

After this immersive experience in Nara’s natural and cultural wonders, the tour returns to Osaka, concluding an enriching day trip to Kyoto and Nara.

Optional Stops: Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka, Gion

Though the scheduled tour of Kyoto and Nara’s key sights draws to a close, participants have the opportunity to further explore the historic Gion district and its picturesque surrounding neighborhoods, Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka. These cobblestone lanes are lined with traditional machiya townhouses, shops, and restaurants, transporting visitors to Japan’s past. Travelers can wander at their own pace, taking in the scenic views and charming atmosphere.

Sannenzaka	Ninenzaka	Gion
Picturesque cobblestone street	Historic machiya townhouses	Geisha district
Traditional shops and eateries	Quaint boutiques and cafes	Unique shopping and dining
Panoramic city views	Peaceful, pedestrian-friendly	Immerse in Japanese culture

Important Information and Restrictions

The tour has various important restrictions travelers must be aware of.

Pregnant women and individuals over 80 years old aren’t permitted on the trip. Plus, no baby strollers, alcohol, drugs, or food/drinks are allowed in the vehicle. Lastly, luggage space is limited, so travelers should avoid bringing large bags.

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, the tour has the following guidelines:

1. No outside food or drinks, except for water.
2. Prompt arrival is essential, as late arrivals may miss the tour.
3. Itinerary and departure time are subject to change due to traffic during peak seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Available on All Days of the Week?

The tour is available daily, but the departure time and itinerary may change due to traffic during peak season. Travelers should arrive 15 minutes early to avoid missing the tour.

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

No, bringing your own food and drinks on the bus is not allowed. The tour provider’s policy prohibits consuming any outside food or beverages in the vehicle to maintain cleanliness and comfort for all passengers.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Lunch?

The overview doesn’t specify a dedicated lunch period, but meals are included in the trip. Participants are advised to avoid bringing their own food and drinks on the bus, suggesting meals are provided during the tour.

Can I Take Photographs Inside the Kiyomizu-Dera Temple?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photographs inside Kiyomizu-dera Temple, though flash photography may be prohibited in certain areas. Guests should be mindful of others and avoid disrupting the temple’s serene atmosphere.

Is There Any Discount for Students or Seniors?

The trip offers discounts for students and seniors. Students can get a discounted admission fee for Tōdai-ji Temple, while seniors may be eligible for reduced prices on tickets to Kiyomizu-dera Temple and other attractions.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Osaka to Kyoto and Nara provides an opportunity to explore iconic cultural sites and interact with the friendly sika deer. Visitors will discover the UNESCO-listed Kiyomizu-dera Temple, the vibrant Fushimi Inari Shrine, and the impressive Tōdai-ji Temple. With convenient transportation and a small group setting, this 9-hour excursion offers an intimate and enriching experience, allowing travelers to enjoy the charm and beauty of these historic Japanese destinations.

You can check if your dates are available here: