Osaka: Nara, Uji Matcha Experience and Onsen Full Day Tour

Osaka offers a unique opportunity to take in Japan’s rich cultural heritage. This full-day tour takes visitors on an unforgettable journey to Nara, Uji, and an Onsen, providing a well-rounded experience of the region’s natural beauty, historical landmarks, and culinary delights. From feeding the friendly deer in Nara Park to indulging in exquisite Uji matcha, this tour promises an adventure that will leave you captivated and eager to discover more.

Key Points

• This full-day tour from Osaka encompasses the highlights of Nara Park, Uji’s renowned matcha treats, and a relaxing onsen experience, priced at Kč 1,313 per person.
• Visitors can enjoy feeding the friendly deer in Nara Park, explore historic temples like Tōdai-ji and Byōdōin, and indulge in a variety of matcha-infused delicacies.
• The tour includes a visit to the UNESCO-listed Byōdōin Temple and an optional stop at the Tale of Genji Museum, offering a comprehensive cultural experience.
• Guests can unwind at the Genji-no-Yu hot springs, with separate bathing areas for males and females, and take advantage of the therapeutic mineral-rich waters.
• Participants should be aware of potential entry restrictions for the onsen due to tattoos and plan for potential traffic delays, especially on holidays.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The "Osaka: Nara, Uji Matcha Experience and Onsen Full Day Tour" offers an immersive day-long exploration of Nara’s cultural landmarks, Uji’s renowned matcha treats, and a relaxing onsen experience.

Priced from Kč 1,313 per person, the 10-hour tour is available in Japanese, English, and Chinese. Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour departs from Nipponbashi at 8:40 AM, with pickup and drop-off in Osaka.

Highlights include feeding deer, visiting historic temples, indulging in matcha delicacies, and unwinding at Uji’s Genji-no-Yu hot spring.

Nara Park Experience

First, visitors will explore the iconic Nara Park, home to hundreds of friendly deer that roam freely. Guests are provided complimentary deer crackers (200 yen value) to feed the gentle creatures. After interacting with the deer, the tour takes guests to explore cultural highlights, including the awe-inspiring Tōdai-ji Temple (Entry: ¥600) and the serene Kasuga Taisha Shrine (Entry: ¥500).

Attraction	Entry Fee
Tōdai-ji Temple	¥600
Kasuga Taisha Shrine	¥500

The group will have approximately 2 hours to discover the rich history and natural beauty of Nara Park before moving on to the next destination.

Uji Matcha Delights

After exploring the deer and cultural sites in Nara, the tour heads to the charming town of Uji, renowned for its exceptional matcha.

Visitors can indulge in a variety of matcha-infused treats, from the iconic matcha ice cream to decadent sweets at renowned shops like Nakamura Tokichi and Itoh Kyuemon.

The highlight is a visit to the UNESCO-listed Byōdōin Temple, a stunning example of Pure Land Buddhist architecture.

An optional stop at the Tale of Genji Museum offers deeper insights into this classic Japanese literary work.

The tour then continues to the relaxing Genji-no-Yu hot springs in Uji.

Byōdō-in Temple and Tale of Genji Museum

After indulging in the delightful matcha treats, the tour moves on to the UNESCO-listed Byōdōin Temple, a stunning architectural gem in Uji. This iconic structure, dating back to the 11th century, is renowned for its striking Phoenix Hall. Visitors can also explore the nearby Tale of Genji Museum, which honors the classic Japanese novel. The museum offers interactive exhibits and replicas that immerse guests in the literary world.

Byōdōin Temple	Tale of Genji Museum
UNESCO World Heritage Site	Interactive Exhibits
Phoenix Hall	Replicas and Artifacts

Combining these cultural highlights provides a well-rounded experience in the historic town of Uji.

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Uji Onsen Relaxation

Following the immersive cultural experiences in Nara and Uji, the tour culminates with a rejuvenating visit to Uji’s Genji-no-Yu hot spring.

This traditional onsen offers:

1. Indoor and outdoor baths, allowing visitors to soak in therapeutic mineral-rich waters while enjoying scenic views.

2. Separate bathing areas for males and females, ensuring privacy and comfort.

3. A serene atmosphere, ideal for unwinding and recharging after a day of exploration.

Theres some good the restorative properties of the onsen, emerging refreshed and ready to continue their journey.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour transportation is provided via an air-conditioned vehicle, which picks up and drops off participants in Osaka.

The travel time is approximately 6.5 hours in total. It takes 2 hours to reach Nara, where visitors will spend 2 hours exploring the park.

Then, the group travels to Uji, which takes 80 minutes. After sightseeing in Uji, the return to Osaka takes around 1 hour.

Heavy traffic on holidays and weekends may extend the return time past 8 PM. Guests should consider this when planning their schedule and transportation needs after the tour.

Important Considerations

Although tattoos are generally accepted in Japan, entry to the hot spring (onsen) may be restricted for individuals with visible tattoos. Guests should inform the tour guide of any tattoos prior to the onsen visit.

Plus, keep in mind:

1. The tour guide will hold a yellow flag to easily identify the group.
2. Provide the booking name upon arrival to the meeting point.
3. Heavy traffic may extend the return time to Osaka, especially on holidays and weekends.

These important considerations will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable tour experience.

Customer Reviews

Based on the reviews provided, the Osaka: Nara, Uji Matcha Experience and Onsen Full Day Tour garners a mixed reception, with an overall rating of 3.6 out of 5 stars from 5 customer reviews.

While some customers praise the guide’s informative commentary and the enjoyable onsen experience, others express concerns about the tour’s value for money and service quality.

Suggestions include improving tour descriptions and providing better amenities like snacks and lunch.

Heavy traffic on holidays and weekends can also delay the tour’s return time past 8 PM, an important consideration for travelers.

Things To Know

Are Pets Allowed on the Tour?

According to the provided information, the tour doesn’t mention anything about allowing pets. It’s likely that pets are not permitted on this tour, as it doesn’t seem to cater to pet owners and their furry companions.

Is the Tour Suitable for Visitors With Mobility Issues?

The tour may not be well-suited for visitors with mobility issues. It involves walking extensively and accessing attractions with stairs. However, the tour provider should be contacted to discuss accommodations and determine if it’s feasible given the visitor’s needs.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit Individual Preferences?

The tour can be somewhat customized to suit individual preferences. Travelers can opt out of certain activities or request modifications, though significant changes may incur additional fees. The tour provider aims to accommodate reasonable requests where possible.

Are Any Meals Provided During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t include any meals, but it provides an opportunity to try famous Uji matcha treats and relax at an onsen. Travelers can purchase their own meals and snacks during the tour stops.

What Should Participants Bring for the Onsen Experience?

Participants should bring a towel, swimsuit, and toiletries for the onsen experience. They’ll need to remove any tattoos, as the hot springs may restrict entry for those with body art.

Sum Up

This Osaka day tour offers an immersive cultural and natural experience. Visitors can feed the friendly deer in Nara Park, explore historic temples, indulge in exquisite Uji matcha treats, and unwind at a rejuvenating hot spring. With convenient transportation and an engaging itinerary, this tour provides an unforgettable glimpse into the rich heritage and beauty of the Kansai region.

You can check availability for your dates here: