Osaka: Kyoto Scenic Day & Night Bus Tour W/ Kobe Beef

Discover the captivating blend of old and new in Osaka and Kyoto with the Scenic Day & Night Bus Tour. This immersive experience takes you through iconic sights, from the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Forest to the vibrant Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. But the true highlight? Indulging in a sumptuous Kobe beef shabu-shabu dinner, where the rich flavors and tender texture transport you to a culinary paradise. What else awaits as you explore the historic districts of Kyoto?

Key Points

• Comprehensive exploration of iconic sights between Osaka and Kyoto, including the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine.
• Immersive culinary experience featuring a traditional Kobe beef shabu-shabu dinner in a 120-year-old machiya townhouse.
• Guided tour of the historic Gion district, with visits to Sannenzaka, Hanamikoji, and Yasaka Shrine.
• Opportunity to witness the enchanting ambiance of illuminated Yasaka Pagoda and shrine.
• Tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking photo opportunities throughout the tour.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Highlights of the Osaka to Kyoto Tour

This comprehensive Osaka to Kyoto tour offers a captivating exploration of the region’s most iconic sights.

Guests will enjoy the serene beauty of the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, where the towering green stalks create a mesmerizing natural atmosphere.

The tour then ventures to the vibrant Fushimi Inari Taisha, known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates winding up the mountain.

In the historic Gion district, travelers will discover the charming Sannenzaka and Hanamikoji streets, capped off by a spectacular view of the illuminated Yasaka Pagoda and Shrine.

The culinary highlight is a delectable Kobe beef shabu-shabu dinner.

Exploring the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

The tour’s first stop immerses visitors in the serene splendor of the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest.

Towering bamboo stalks sway gently, casting dappled shadows across the winding paths.

Visitors can:

1. Stroll through the lush, verdant landscape, marveling at the otherworldly beauty of this natural wonder.
2. Capture breathtaking photos from various vantage points, framing the bamboo forest against the sky.
3. Immerse themselves in the tranquil atmosphere, listening to the gentle rustling of the bamboo and the occasional bird call.

This peaceful interlude sets the tone for the rest of the day’s exploration of Kyoto’s iconic sights.

Visiting the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

Next, the tour group ventures to the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine.

They’ll spend 80 minutes exploring this serene Shinto shrine, known for its thousands of vibrant orange torii gates winding up the mountainside.

Visitors can wander through the tranquil gates, taking in the serene atmosphere and photographing the stunning scenery.

The guide will provide insight into the shrine’s history and significance.

After the visit, the group will depart for the restaurant where they’ll enjoy an authentic Kyoto sukiyaki dinner featuring Japan’s finest wagyu beef.

Indulging in Kobe Beef Shabu-Shabu Dinner

After exploring the serene Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, the tour group embarks on the culinary highlight of the day – an authentic Kyoto sukiyaki dinner featuring Japan’s finest wagyu beef.

They’re ushered into the 120-year-old traditional machiya townhouse, Kyoto Wasabi, where they’ll indulge in:

1. Sukiyaki, a classic Japanese hot pot dish with thinly sliced beef, vegetables, and a sweet soy-based sauce.
2. Kobe beef, renowned for its exquisite marbling, tenderness, and flavor.
3. Shabu-shabu, where the beef is gently simmered in broth and dipped in a savory sauce.

This epicurean experience promises to be a true taste of Kyoto.

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Discovering Historic Districts in Kyoto

After departing the Kobe beef dinner, the tour group ventures into Kyoto’s historic districts, eager to discover the city’s rich cultural legacy.

They stroll through the Gion geisha district, admiring traditional machiya townhouses and spotting occasional geisha.

Next, they ascend the Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka slopes, lined with quaint shops and teahouses.

At the Yasaka Shrine, they marvel at the striking pagoda and peaceful surroundings.

The group then explores Hanamikoji and Pontocho Alley, known for their atmospheric restaurants and bars.

As night falls, the illuminated Yasaka Pagoda and shrine create a serene, enchanting atmosphere to cap off the day.

Admiring the Illuminated Yasaka Pagoda and Shrine

As the day fades into night, the tour group now stands mesmerized by the striking sight of the illuminated Yasaka Pagoda and the serene Yasaka Shrine.

The Yasaka Pagoda, dating back to the 6th century, towers over the landscape, its five-tiered structure illuminated in a warm glow.

Nearby, the Yasaka Shrine, one of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks, exudes an aura of tranquility.

Visitors can:

1. Admire the pagoda’s intricate architecture and the shrine’s traditional Japanese design.
2. Explore the shrine’s inner grounds, where visitors can purify themselves at the cleansing fountain.
3. Witness the beauty of the illuminated structures and the peaceful ambiance they create.

Transportation and Travel Times

The tour includes air-conditioned vehicle transfers between the various locations on the itinerary. The travel times range from 30 to 80 minutes. Guests will travel 70 minutes from Osaka to Arashiyama, 40 minutes from Arashiyama to Fushimi Inari Taisha, 30 minutes from Fushimi Inari Taisha to the restaurant, 30 minutes from the restaurant to Sannenzaka, and 80 minutes from Sannenzaka back to Osaka.

Departure	Destination	Travel Time
Osaka	Arashiyama	70 minutes
Arashiyama	Fushimi Inari Taisha	40 minutes
Fushimi Inari Taisha	Restaurant	30 minutes
Restaurant	Sannenzaka	30 minutes
Sannenzaka	Osaka	80 minutes

Important Tour Details and Considerations

Although the tour operates rain or shine, it may be subject to cancellation in the event of extreme weather conditions like typhoons.

Guests should be aware of a few important considerations:

1. The tour requires a minimum group size of 10 participants, and cancellations may be notified 3-4 days prior if the minimum isn’t met.

2. Contact outside of business hours (Monday-Saturday, 9:30 AM – 6 PM JST) may be unresponsive, so it’s best to plan accordingly.

3. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so those with mobility limitations should explore alternative options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the Group Size Requirement for the Tour?

The minimum group size required for the tour is 10 participants. If the minimum group size is not met, the tour may be cancelled and customers will be notified 3-4 days prior.

Can I Cancel the Tour Last Minute for a Refund?

Customers can cancel the tour up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. However, the tour requires a minimum group size of 10, and cancellations may occur if this minimum is not met, typically 3-4 days prior.

Is the Tour Accessible for Wheelchair Users?

According to the tour information, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users. The itinerary involves several stops and transportation between locations, which may not be accessible for those in wheelchairs.

How Responsive Is the Tour Company Outside of Business Hours?

The tour company may not be very responsive outside of their business hours, which are Monday to Saturday, 9:30 AM to 6 PM JST. Contact attempts made outside these hours may go unanswered.

Can the Tour Schedule Change Unexpectedly?

The schedule for the tour may change unexpectedly due to weather or traffic conditions. The tour operates rain or shine, but extreme weather could result in cancellations, which would be communicated to customers 3-4 days prior.

The Sum Up

This scenic bus tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Osaka and Kyoto’s iconic sights, from the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Forest to the vibrant Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. Capped off with a delectable Kobe beef shabu-shabu dinner, the tour provides a well-rounded experience that showcases the cultural and culinary delights of these remarkable Japanese cities.

You can check if your dates are available here: