Japan’s rich cultural heritage is on full display in the Kyoto: Historical Nara & Kyoto Bus Tour. Visitors will journey through the iconic sites of Nara and Kyoto, including the breathtaking Tōdai-ji Temple and serene Nara Park.

Along the way, they’ll enjoy a matcha tea experience and have the option to indulge in an authentic Japanese lunch. With a professional guide providing insightful commentary, this tour promises an immersive cultural experience. But the true highlight might just be what lies in store for those who…

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Key Points

8.5-hour bus tour from Kyoto to explore the historical landmarks of Nara and Kyoto, including Todaiji Temple, Nara Park, and Byodoin’s Phoenix Hall.
Tour includes visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a matcha-making experience in Uji, and free time for independent exploration.
Departure from a centrally located Tullys Coffee in Kyoto, with an air-conditioned bus and an English-speaking guide to provide commentary.
Optional Japanese lunch available at a local restaurant, allowing for a culinary experience during the tour.
Flexible cancellation policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Kyoto: Historical Nara & Kyoto Bus Tour provides an 8.5-hour exploration of Japan’s ancient capitals. Priced from $124.59 per person, the tour departs at 8:00 AM from Tullys Coffee in Kyoto.

Visitors can expect to see landmarks like the Tōdai-ji temple, Nara Park, and the Byodoin’s Phoenix Hall. The tour also includes a matcha tea experience in Uji.

With live English-language guidance and multilingual audio support, the comfortable coach tour offers a convenient way to discover Nara and Kyoto’s UNESCO-listed treasures.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at Tullys Coffee in the Kyoto Avanti Store, where participants embark on their journey to discover the historical wonders of Nara and Kyoto.

First, they visit the iconic Tōdai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha, one of the largest wooden buildings in the world.

Next, they explore Nara Park, interacting with the famous wild deer.

At Kasuga-taisha Shrine, they admire the 3,000 stone lanterns.

The tour then moves to Byodoin Temple, renowned for its Phoenix Hall, depicted on the 10 yen coin.

Finally, they enjoy a matcha tea experience and free time in the historic town of Uji.

Starting Point

Participants begin their historical journey at Tullys Coffee, Kyoto Avanti Store, the designated departure point for the Kyoto: Historical Nara & Kyoto Bus Tour.

This centrally located meeting spot ensures a convenient start to the day’s exploration. Travelers arrive at the Tullys Coffee location, where they’re greeted by the tour guide.

With everyone assembled, the group boards the comfortable, air-conditioned bus and departs for the first stop on the itinerary.

The tour’s starting point sets the stage for an immersive experience that will take participants through the rich cultural heritage of Nara and Kyoto.

Visits

As participants journey through the tour, they first visit Tōdai-ji, a remarkable Buddhist temple that houses the Great Buddha, one of the largest bronze statues in the world.

Next, they explore Nara Park, where they can interact with the friendly, free-roaming deer.

The tour then proceeds to Kasuga-taisha, a Shinto shrine famous for its thousands of stone lanterns.

Afterward, the group visits Byodoin, a stunning temple notable for its Phoenix Hall, a structure depicted on the Japanese 10 yen coin.

Finally, the tour concludes in Uji, where participants enjoy a hands-on matcha tea experience.

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Lunch

Although the tour includes an optional Japanese lunch at a local restaurant, the duration allotted for this meal is approximately 50 minutes.

This provides enough time for participants to sample a variety of traditional dishes and flavors. The lunch is offered at an additional cost, allowing travelers to customize their experience.

The meal is served at a reputable local hotel, ensuring an authentic culinary experience. Enjoying a brief lunch break allows participants to recharge before continuing the comprehensive exploration of Nara and Kyoto’s historical landmarks and cultural attractions.

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Return

After exploring the historical sites and immersing in the cultural experiences, the tour concludes with the return to the starting point.

Guests board the comfortable air-conditioned bus and are transported back to the Tullys Coffee, Kyoto Avanti Store. The drive provides a final opportunity to reflect on the day’s highlights and insights gained from the knowledgeable tour guide.

Arriving at the departure point, travelers can easily continue their Kyoto adventures or depart for their next destination.

The tour’s efficient organization and seamless logistics ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience from start to finish.

Tour Experience

The tour provides an immersive experience that allows visitors to discover must-see landmarks in Nara and Kyoto, including three UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Guests will engage in a captivating matcha-making experience in Uji, the birthplace of matcha.

Throughout the journey, they’ll enjoy insightful commentary from a professional English-speaking guide and access to a multilingual audio guide.

The comfortable air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi ensures a relaxing and convenient tour.

With a mix of guided visits and free time, the tour offers a well-rounded exploration of the region’s rich history and cultural traditions.

Inclusions

The tour package includes an array of valuable inclusions to enhance the overall experience.

Travelers will enjoy the services of a professional English-speaking guide who provides knowledgeable commentary throughout the day. Transportation is provided via a comfortable, air-conditioned bus with free Wi-Fi.

Admission fees for the major sites, including Tōdai-ji and Byodoin, are covered. The tour also includes a unique matcha-making experience in Uji.

Optionally, an authentic Japanese lunch can be added for an additional fee. These thoughtful inclusions ensure a seamless and enriching journey through Nara and Kyoto’s historical wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book This Tour for a Group?

Yes, guests can book this tour for a group. The tour operator offers flexibility for group bookings and can accommodate group sizes. Customers can inquire about group discounts and customization options to suit their needs.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Camera Equipment?

No, you don’t need to bring your own camera equipment. The tour provides a comfortable environment to capture memorable moments of the historical sights and experiences. Just bring your smartphone or a compact camera to document your journey.

Are There Any Special Dietary Requirements for the Lunch?

The tour offers an optional Japanese lunch, but there’s no mention of specific dietary requirements. Participants can likely choose from a variety of dishes, though it’s best to check with the tour operator for any dietary accommodations.

Is It Possible to Customize the Itinerary?

The tour’s itinerary can’t be customized. It’s a pre-scheduled group tour that follows a set schedule. However, travelers can choose to opt-out of the optional lunch if they have dietary restrictions or preferences.

What Should I Wear on the Tour?

Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended for this tour. Dress in layers, wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring sun protection if visiting during sunny conditions. The tour involves both indoor and outdoor activities, so adaptable attire is suggested.

The Sum Up

The Kyoto: Historical Nara & Kyoto Bus Tour offers a captivating cultural experience, immersing visitors in Japan’s rich heritage. From the majestic Tōdai-ji Temple to the serene Nara Park, the tour provides an opportunity to explore iconic sites and engage with the local traditions, including a matcha tea experience. Whether you’re a history buff or a cultural enthusiast, this tour is a must-do for a memorable day in Kyoto and Nara.