Kyoto: Full-Day Best UNESCO and Historical Sites Bus Tour

Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, holds a wealth of historical and cultural treasures. The "Kyoto: Full-Day Best UNESCO and Historical Sites Bus Tour" offers an immersive experience, guiding visitors through iconic sites like Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Fushimi Inari Taisha.

With a high customer rating, this tour promises engaging insights and scenic views. But what sets it apart, and why might it be worth exploring further?

Key Points

• This full-day bus tour in Kyoto visits UNESCO World Heritage sites and other historical landmarks, including Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Sanjusangen-do Temple, and Fushimi Inari Taisha.
• The tour lasts approximately 8.5-9 hours, departing at 8:00 AM from Tullys Coffee in Kyoto.
• The tour includes an English-speaking guide, air-conditioned transportation, and entry tickets to the key attractions.
• Guests can choose to have an optional Japanese buffet lunch or bring their own.
• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues, and comfortable shoes are recommended.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour is titled "Kyoto: Full-Day Best UNESCO and Historical Sites Bus Tour" and costs from $124.59 per person.

It runs for 8.5-9 hours, departing at 8:00 AM from Tullys Coffee in Kyoto. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour is likely to sell out, so a "reserve now & pay later" option is available.

The itinerary includes top attractions like Kiyomizu-dera, Sanjusangen-do, Arashiyama, Sagano Bamboo Forest, Tenryuji, Kinkaku-ji, and Fushimi Inari Taisha.

Transportation, entry tickets, and an English-speaking guide are included.

Itinerary Highlights

As the tour begins, visitors will first explore the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, spending around 70 minutes taking in its stunning architecture and panoramic city views. Next, they’ll venture to Sanjusangen-do Temple, allotting 40 minutes to admire its impressive collection of 1,001 statues of the Buddhist deity Kannon.

Stop	Duration
Kiyomizu-dera Temple	70 minutes
Sanjusangen-do Temple	40 minutes
Arashiyama (Lunch)	1 hour

The tour then moves on to the serene Sagano Bamboo Forest, allowing 25 minutes to wander through the towering bamboo stalks before continuing to Tenryuji Temple for a 30-minute visit. The day culminates with stops at the iconic Kinkaku-ji and the sprawling Fushimi Inari Taisha, each allotted 40 and 65 minutes respectively.

Inclusions

This tour includes a professional English-speaking guide to lead the journey, as well as multilingual audio guides in several languages.

The tour also provides:

1. Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable and connected experience.
2. Entry tickets for key attractions like Kiyomizu-dera, Tenryuji, Kinkakuji, and Sanju-san-gen-do Temples, saving guests time and hassle.
3. An optional Japanese buffet lunch, catering to guests’ dining preferences.

While the tour doesn’t offer allergy-friendly or specialized dietary options, guests are welcome to bring their own lunch if needed.

Optional tips are also included in the tour package.

Customer Experience

Overall, how do customers rate this tour? According to reviews, the Kyoto: Full-Day Best UNESCO and Historical Sites Bus Tour earns an impressive 4.7/5 rating based on 2,177 reviews. Customers highlight the knowledgeable guides, engaging experiences, and well-planned itineraries. However, some suggest more time at specific locations, such as the Sagano Bamboo Forest.

Metric	Rating
Overall	4.7/5
Guide Knowledge	Excellent
Itinerary Planning	Excellent
Value for Money	Great
Accessibility	Limited

The tour seems to provide a comprehensive introduction to Kyoto’s top UNESCO and historical sites, though accessibility and dietary accommodations may be limited.

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Important Information

The meeting point for the Kyoto: Full-Day Best UNESCO and Historical Sites Bus Tour is Tullys Coffee, located at 31 Higashikujo Nishisannocho, Minami Ward, Kyoto.

This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Additionally:

1. Pets aren’t allowed.
2. The itinerary may change due to traffic, weather, or operational reasons.
3. Lunch options don’t include Muslim-friendly, allergy-friendly, lactose-free, or gluten-free choices. Bring your own lunch if necessary.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

As visitors approach Kiyomizu-dera Temple, they’re greeted by the iconic wooden structure perched atop a hillside, offering breathtaking views of Kyoto.

Founded in the 8th century, the temple is known for its large veranda supported by hundreds of wooden pillars. Guests can walk along the veranda, which provides sweeping vistas of the city below.

Inside, the temple houses a revered statue of the Eleven-Faced Kannon, the goddess of mercy.

With its stunning architecture and historical significance, Kiyomizu-dera is a highlight of the Kyoto sightseeing tour, allowing visitors to enjoy Japan’s rich cultural heritage.

Arashiyama and Sagano Bamboo Forest

After exploring the historic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, the tour takes visitors to the serene Arashiyama district. Here, guests enjoy a leisurely 1-hour lunch break in this picturesque area.

The tour then continues to the renowned Sagano Bamboo Forest, where visitors can:

1. Stroll through the lush, verdant bamboo groves, marveling at the towering stalks.
2. Capture stunning photographs of the forest’s natural beauty.
3. Experience the serene, otherworldly atmosphere that this unique landscape provides.

Following the bamboo forest, the tour proceeds to the Tenryuji Temple, allowing guests to further enjoy Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage.

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Fushimi Inari Taisha, the iconic Shinto shrine, caps off the tour’s impressive itinerary.

Visitors climb the winding paths lined with over 1,000 vibrant orange torii gates leading up the sacred mountain. At the top, they’re rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Kyoto.

Along the way, they can explore the shrine’s numerous sub-shrines and admire the intricate architecture.

With 65 minutes allocated, guests have ample time to enjoy the shrine’s tranquil atmosphere and snap memorable photos.

This must-see destination leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t appear to offer student or senior discounts based on the information provided. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator directly as they may have special pricing or promotions available.

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, you can request a private tour instead of a group tour. Many tour operators offer private tour options that allow you to customize the itinerary and have a more personalized experience.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this tour is not explicitly stated. However, as it’s a bus tour, the group size is likely larger than a private tour. Customers should check with the tour operator for the exact group size details.

Are There Any Options for a Longer or Shorter Tour Duration?

There are no options for a longer or shorter tour duration. The tour lasts 8.5 – 9 hours, which is the standard length for this sightseeing experience in Kyoto. The itinerary is fixed and cannot be customized.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Include Specific Sites I’m Interested In?

The tour operator may allow some flexibility to customize the itinerary, though the core sites are likely set. Travelers can inquire about adding or substituting specific attractions they’re interested in visiting, though this may incur additional costs or require a private tour.

The Sum Up

The Kyoto: Full-Day Best UNESCO and Historical Sites Bus Tour offers a comprehensive experience of Kyoto’s renowned landmarks. With a well-curated itinerary, professional guidance, and comfortable transportation, the tour provides an immersive cultural journey. Customers consistently praise the engaging insights and scenic views, making it a popular choice for visitors seeking to explore Kyoto’s UNESCO-listed treasures and historical sites in a single day.

You can check availability for your dates here: