Osaka: Kyoto Kiyomizudera & Nara Deer Sighting Day Trip

Japan’s cultural tapestry unfolds on this Osaka: Kyoto Kiyomizudera & Nara Deer Sighting Day Trip. For just $62.50, visitors can enjoy the serene beauty of Kiyomizu-dera Temple, pay homage at Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, and interact with the friendly sika deer of Nara Park. With a knowledgeable guide and convenient transportation, this tour promises a seamless exploration of Kyoto and Nara’s timeless treasures. Discover what makes this day trip an unmissable experience.

Key Points

• This day trip from Osaka to Kyoto and Nara is priced from $62.50 per person and lasts approximately 9 hours.
• The tour includes a visit to the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto and an interaction with sika deer in Nara Park.
• Transportation, a bilingual guide, and one meal are provided, but entrance fees to Todaiji and Kiyomizu-dera are additional.
• The tour starts from the Namba/Shinsaibashi area in Osaka and concludes at the Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street.
• Restrictions include no large bags, strollers, alcohol, drugs, food, or drinks in the vehicle, and punctuality is essential.

Overview and Pricing

This day trip from Osaka to Kyoto and Nara is priced from $62.50 per person.

It’s a 9-hour tour with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Customers can reserve now and pay later.

The tour starts from the Namba/Shinsaibashi area in Osaka and visits iconic sites like Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Nara Park, and Todaiji Temple.

Included are a bilingual guide, transportation, tolls, parking, and one meal. Entrance fees to Todaiji and Kiyomizu-dera are additional.

The tour concludes at Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street in Osaka.

Certain restrictions apply, such as no large bags or strollers.

Itinerary Highlights

The day trip begins at the Nihonbashi Exit 2 in the Namba/Shinsaibashi area of Osaka.

The first stop is the UNESCO World Heritage site, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, for a 20-minute visit.

Next, the group heads to the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine for a guided tour lasting 70 minutes.

In Nara Park, visitors can view and interact with the sika deer for 1.5 hours.

The tour then visits Todai-ji Temple, known for its Great Buddha, for 1 hour.

Optional stops include Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka, and Gion before concluding at the Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street in Osaka.

Inclusions and Costs

The tour includes 10 hours of car usage, a bilingual guide and driver, and all toll and parking fees.

A meal is also provided for participants.

Entrance fees to the Todaiji Temple (600 yen for adults, 300 yen for children) and Kiyomizudera Temple (400 yen for adults, 200 yen for children) are included.

However, any other expenses not mentioned in the inclusions aren’t covered.

Travelers should be mindful of the restrictions, such as no large bags, baby strollers, alcohol, drugs, food, or drinks allowed in the vehicle.

Children under 3 can join for free without occupying a seat.

Important Meeting Information

Travelers will meet at 1-chōme-3-6 Nipponbashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, the designated meeting point.

Plan to arrive 15 minutes early, as the tour departs promptly. A photo of the gathering spot will be sent via email for reference.

The key points to remember are:

1. Arrive 15 minutes early to the meeting location.
2. Look for the photo of the gathering point sent by email.
3. The tour won’t wait for latecomers, as it departs on time.

Punctuality is essential, as the schedule can’t accommodate delays.

Travelers are advised to plan accordingly for a seamless start to the day trip.

Restrictions and Considerations

Although this day trip is suitable for most travelers, there are a few important restrictions and considerations to keep in mind.

Pregnant women and individuals over 80 years old aren’t recommended to join this tour.

Bringing baby strollers, alcohol, drugs, food, and drinks into the vehicle is prohibited. Luggage space is limited, so large bags should be avoided.

However, children under 3 can join for free without occupying a seat.

Guests are advised to arrive 15 minutes early, as the tour departs promptly and delays can’t be accommodated.

Exploring Kiyomizu-dera Temple

After departing from the meeting point, the tour makes its way to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Perched on the side of a mountain, the magnificent wooden temple offers stunning views of Kyoto. Visitors can explore the temple’s main hall, which is supported by hundreds of wooden pillars, and admire the intricate architecture.

The temple is also known for its unique "Draught of Long Life" spring, where visitors can drink water believed to have healing powers.

Some key highlights of Kiyomizu-dera Temple include:

1. Spectacular city views from the temple’s veranda
2. Centuries-old wooden construction and impressive architecture
3. The "Draught of Long Life" spring and its purported health benefits

Discovering Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

From Kiyomizu-dera Temple, the tour continues to the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine.

This Shinto shrine is famous for its thousands of vibrant orange torii gates that wind up the mountainside. Visitors will enjoy a guided tour through the serene atmosphere, exploring the shrine’s history and significance.

The guide provides insights into the shrine’s architecture, religious rituals, and the symbolism of the torii gates. After an immersive 70-minute experience, the group will depart for the next destination, Nara Park, to interact with the friendly sika deer.

Experiencing Nara Park and Todai-ji Temple

Next, the tour ventures to Nara Park, a serene oasis renowned for its friendly sika deer. Visitors can hand-feed the docile deer and observe their natural behaviors.

The highlight is a visit to Todai-ji Temple, home to the colossal bronze Buddha statue. The temple’s grand scale and architectural splendor leave a lasting impression.

Afterwards, the tour offers optional stops at:

1. Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, picturesque historic lanes.
2. Gion, the famous geisha district.
3. Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street in Osaka.

The day concludes with a return to the starting point, providing a well-rounded exploration of Kyoto and Nara’s cultural treasures.

Things To Know

Can I Extend the Tour Duration or Add More Stops?

Yes, customers can typically extend the tour duration or add more stops for an additional fee. The tour operator may be able to accommodate customized itineraries, but availability and pricing would need to be confirmed.

How Many People Are Typically in a Tour Group?

The typical group size for this day trip is around 8-15 people. The tour operates with a small group size to provide a more personalized experience and allow for easy navigation through the popular destinations.

Are Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

There are no student or senior discounts available for this day trip. The price is fixed at $62.50 per person, regardless of age or student status. Discounts may be offered for larger group bookings.

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

No, bringing your own food and drinks on the tour is not allowed. The itinerary states that only the included meal is permitted, and outside food and beverages are prohibited inside the vehicle.

What Happens if I Need to Use the Restroom During the Tour?

The tour provides regular stops for restroom breaks. If you need to use the restroom outside of these scheduled breaks, you can inform the guide, who will accommodate your request at the next suitable location.

Sum Up

This day trip offers an immersive cultural experience, allowing visitors to explore iconic Kyoto and Nara landmarks while interacting with the friendly deer of Nara Park. With transportation, a guided tour, and a meal included, it’s a convenient and engaging way to discover Japan’s rich heritage. Though entrance fees are additional, the tour’s affordable price and comprehensive itinerary make it an attractive option for those seeking to maximize their time in the region.