Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Optional Lunch : From Osaka / Kyoto
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September 2026
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Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
4.3/5
Based on 121 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Optional Lunch : From Osaka / Kyoto worth booking?
Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Optional Lunch : From Osaka / Kyoto is a 9-hour experience in Osaka, Japan, from $49 per person. It scores 66 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.3/5 rating across 121 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 66 / 100
- Rating
- 4.3/5 (121)
- Duration
- 9 hours
- From
- $49 per person
Begin your journey from Osaka or Kyoto, and step into Japan’s most iconic sights (Arashiyama, Nara Park, Fushimi Inari Taisha). Start at the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, where sunlight filters through towering stalks, crea
What you get
About this experience
Begin your journey from Osaka or Kyoto, and step into Japan’s most iconic sights (Arashiyama, Nara Park, Fushimi Inari Taisha). Start at the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, where sunlight filters through towering stalks, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. Enjoy a superb meal at Kyoto Wasabi Restaurant. Choose from Kobe Beef Shabu-shabu, Pork Shabu-shabu, Kobe Beef Rice Bowl or Kobe Beef Sukiyaki. (Optional lunch) Continue to Nara, Japan’s ancient capital. Stroll through Nara Park and visit Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Inside the world’s largest wooden structure, marvel at the 15-meter Great Buddha, an awe-inspiring symbol of Japan’s heritage. Conclude at Fushimi Inari Shrine, famed for its thousands of vermilion torii gates forming a striking path up Mount Inari. This unforgettable sight is among Japan’s most photographed landmarks. At day’s end, relax on your bus ride back, with the flexibility to return to Osaka or Kyoto.
What's included
Included
- All Fees and Taxes
- Lunch (if this option is selected)
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- English or Chinese Speaking Guide
Not included
- Entrance fee to Todaiji temple (Optional)
- Hotel Pick up / Drop off
- Lunch (Optional)
What you'll see and do
Arashiyama
Explore one of Kyoto's most beloved sightseeing districts, celebrated for its scenic riverside, historic atmosphere, and seasonal beauty. From fresh spring greenery to vibrant autumn foliage, Arashiyama is a destination that showcases the charm of Kyoto in every season. For travelers who choose the no-meal option, you will have a total of 120 minutes in Arashiyama to explore local dining options and enjoy the picturesque surroundings at your own pace. For Travelers Who Have Selected the Lunch Option: Enjoy 50 minutes for lunch at Kyoto Shokujidokoro Wasabi, followed by 60 minutes for Arashiyama.
50 minutes here
Togetsukyo Bridge
Togetsukyō Bridge, meaning "Moon-Crossing Bridge", is a landmark wooden bridge in Kyoto's Arashiyama district, spanning the Katsura River. It's renowned for its scenic beauty, especially during cherry blossom season and autumn foliage, and has a history dating back over a thousand years.
10 minutes here
Arashiyama Kimono Forest
The "Arashiyama Kimono Forest" in English is called Kimono Forest. It is a public art installation located at Randen Arashiyama Station in Kyoto. The installation features a pathway lined with numerous cylindrical pillars, each wrapped in vibrant kimono fabric encased in clear acrylic.
10 minutes here
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
Walk through one of Japan's most famous bamboo groves, where thousands of towering bamboo stalks rise on both sides of the path, creating a unique natural corridor. As sunlight filters through the bamboo and the leaves sway in the breeze, visitors can experience one of Kyoto's most iconic landscapes.
40 minutes here
Nara Park
Nara, Japan’s historic capital. Discover the serene beauty of Nara Park and explore Todai-ji Temple, the largest wooden structure in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Be awed by Japan’s colossal Buddha statue, towering 15 meters high.
40 minutes here
Todai-ji Temple
Visit Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan's most important Buddhist temples. Home to the Great Buddha and the Great Buddha Hall—the world's largest historic wooden building—it is one of Nara's most iconic cultural landmarks. Time permitting, guests will have the opportunity to visit Todai-ji Temple. The itinerary may be adjusted depending on traffic and operational conditions.
40 minutes here · Admission not included
Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine
Immerse yourself with the Fushimi Inari Shrine, a revered Shinto shrine designated as an Important Cultural Property. Famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates, this iconic shrine creates a stunning tunnel-like pathway up the sacred Mount Inari. As you stroll through the gates, you will encounter a series of shrines, each honoring the deity Inari Okami, who is celebrated for prosperity in business, household safety, and success in various pursuits. At the end of the tour, return by bus with the option to disembark at either Kyoto or Osaka, giving you the flexibility to choose your preferred conclusion for the day.
80 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Osaka
VIP Lounge Kyoto near AEON Mall (08:50 Meet-up/09:00 Departure) Add: 601-8417, Kyoto, Minami Ward, Nishikujo Toriiguchicho, 6−番地 1F Exit Kyoto Station from Hajicho West Exit (八条西口). There is a VIP LINER Bus stop sign in front of VIP Lounge Kyoto.
Meeting point
Osaka
Osaka VIP Villa Namba Departure (Meeting Time: 07:50am / Departure Time: 08:00am) *3-min walk from subway Midosuji Line Namba Station Exit 7* *Check out the photo reference of the meeting point on our product page. The guide will be holding a blue flag.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
Options you can book
Kobe-Beef Shabu-shabu /Osaka
Kobe Beef Shabu-Shabu Lunch Osaka Villa Namba Departure: (Meeting time: 7:50AM/Departure time: 8:00AM) Starting point: VIP Villa Namba, 1-chōme-2-1 Nanbanaka, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0011, Japan
Pork Shabu-shabu / Kyoto Dep.
Pork Shabu-Shabu Kyoto VIP Lounge Departure: (Meeting time: 9:00AM/Departure time: 9:10AM) Starting point: VIP Lounge Kyoto, Japan, 601-8417 Kyoto, Minami Ward, Nishikujō Toriiguchichō, 6−番地 1F
Kobe-Beef Sukiyaki /Kyoto Dep.
Kobe Beef Sukiyaki Lunch Kyoto VIP Lounge Departure: (Meeting Time: 09:00AM／Departure Time: 09:10AM) Starting point: VIP Lounge Kyoto, Japan, 601-8417 Kyoto, Minami Ward, Nishikujō Toriiguchichō, 6−番地 1F
Pork Shabu-shabu /Osaka Dep.
Pork Shabu-Shabu Lunch Osaka Villa Namba Departure: (Meeting time: 7:50AM/Departure time: 8:00AM) Starting point: VIP Villa Namba, 1-chōme-2-1 Nanbanaka, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0011, Japan
Kobe-Beef Rice Bowl/Kyoto dep.
Kobe Beef Rice Bowl Lunch Kyoto VIP Lounge Departure: (Meeting Time: 09:00AM／Departure Time: 09:10AM) Starting point: VIP Lounge Kyoto, Japan, 601-8417 Kyoto, Minami Ward, Nishikujō Toriiguchichō, 6−番地 1F
Kobe-Beef Rice Bowl/Osaka dep.
Kobe Beef Rice Bowl Lunch Osaka Villa Namba Departure: (Meeting Time: 07:50AM／Departure Time: 08:00AM) Starting point: VIP Villa Namba, 1-chōme-2-1 Nanbanaka, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0011, Japan
Kobe-Beef Sukiyaki /Osaka Dep.
Kobe Beef Sukiyaki Lunch Osaka Villa Namba Departure: (Meeting Time: 07:50AM／Departure Time: 08:00AM) Starting point: VIP Villa Namba, 1-chōme-2-1 Nanbanaka, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0011, Japan
No Lunch / Osaka Departure
No Lunch: There is no lunch included in this option. Osaka Villa Namba Departure: (Meeting Time: 07:50AM／Departure Time: 08:00AM) Starting point: VIP Villa Namba, 1-chōme-2-1 Nanbanaka, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0011, Japan
Kobe-Beef Shabu-shabu /Kyoto
Kobe Beef Shabu-Shabu Lunch Kyoto VIP Lounge Departure: (Meeting time: 9:00AM/Departure time: 9:10AM) Starting point: VIP Lounge Kyoto, Japan, 601-8417 Kyoto, Minami Ward, Nishikujō Toriiguchichō, 6−番地 1F
No Lunch / Kyoto Departure
No Lunch: There is no lunch included in this option. Kyoto VIP Lounge Departure: (Meeting Time: 09:00AM／Departure Time: 09:10AM) Starting point: VIP Lounge Kyoto, Japan, 601-8417 Kyoto, Minami Ward, Nishikujō Toriiguchichō, 6−番地 1F
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- cmn, en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- VIP Japan Tours
Know before you go
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- The tour schedule may change without prior notice due to weather, road traffic conditions, and other unforeseen reasons. (There might be delays in returning to the designated location.) If the tour is cancelled by the supplier due to extreme weather or natural disaster, you will receive a full refund.
- This tour will depart regardless of weather or traffic conditions, unless you are notified otherwise by the local operator. Trip Advisor / Viator and your local tour operator will not be responsible for itinerary changes due to unforeseen circumstances.
- Depending on the number of participants, English and Chinese commentary might be given on the same bus.
- Infants under 3 years old are free of charge without seat. If a seat is required, please book under the children's price
- Please arrive 10 minutes before departure at your selected meeting point, as your assigned bus & guide will be based on that specific location. The guide has a list of participants for each bus & may not be able to accommodate guests who arrive at a different meeting point. Late arrival or arrival at the wrong location will result in missing the tour, & refunds won't be issued. If you'd like to change your meeting point or are unsure about the meeting point, please notify us at least 2 days before departure for assistance.
- The bus will be departing on time (no exceptions).
- Please adhere to the scheduled time. We are unable to accommodate delays or wait for any reason. The tour will depart promptly as scheduled to respect all customers' time.
- In case of late arrival or arrival at wrong location, regardless of contact prior to the departure time, refunds will not be granted.
- Upon arrival, please confirm your name with the guide or staff on the participant list.
- Please refrain from booking any time-sensitive activities such as restaurant reservations, cruise ship departures, or other scheduled commitments immediately following your tour.
- Regarding luggage, we allow one piece of luggage per person during the excursion. Please also ensure that the luggage is manageable and fits comfortably within our vehicle. Please also be aware that any items stored in the trunk will not be accessible in between stops on the tour, so keep all valuables with you.
- In general, we do not send out confirmation emails prior to departure. If you would like more information or need to clarify something, please contact us and we will send you the relevant details.
- Contact number may be unavailable outside business hours (Monday–Friday, 9:30AM–6:30PM JST).
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 120 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
9 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
5 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Pace and timing
5 mentionsSeveral reviewers found the schedule tight or the day long.
Food and drink
4 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Organization
3 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Value for money
2 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Traveler reviews
120 verified traveler reviews for Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Optional Lunch : From Osaka / Kyoto. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Th!nk 2X! Beware
They need a lot of work when it comes to logistics: i.e. meeting and pick up details, including pre-activity information. I only went as far as waiting at the pick up location 30 mins early. Went into the waiting area where other trips would pick up people going to other places. The lounge people will only announce a “bus number” - wth! I was told to go outside, in the rain and ask the said bus if I’m supposed to ride it. Naturally, I didn’t coz it was not in the instructions. A second bus got announced and I was the only one left. I also asked the people working there and that the bus was delayed. I called the tour operator after 40 mins since they only started office hours 30 mins after pick up time. The conversation turned up having to prove I was not late showing up because I was asked to send a picture of myself being in the station on time?! WTF
via Viator
Fantastic for a quick trip!
Amazing value for the money! The tour was the perfect length. I’m glad we didn’t pick a longer tour. It was hot that day and we easily put in 15,000 steps throughout the day. We only had 1.5 days in Kyoto and I felt like we got to see the most important things on our tour. Our tour guide, Nick San, was phenomenal. Very engaging, entertaining, and knowledgeable. Lunch was delicious! As we travelled from site to site, I appreciated not having to worry about toll roads, directions, parking, and generally navigating these sights on our own.
Response from the operator: Dear valued customer, Thank you for sharing your experience! We're so pleased to hear that our Kyoto & Nara Day Trip was a great fit for your limited time in Kyoto and that you found it to be excellent value. It's wonderful to know that Nick San's engaging and knowledgeable guidance, along with the delicious lunch, helped make your day even more enjoyable. We're also glad you could relax and enjoy the sights without the stress of driving and navigating on your own. We truly appreciate your kind feedback and hope to welcome you back for another tour the next time you're in Japan! Best regards, VIP Japan Tours
via Tripadvisor
All the sites visited are...
All the sites visited are very beautiful but the time given in each of the areas visited was not enough, especially in the heat of the sun. In Nara, there wasn't enough time to visit the Buddha temple and advised by the guide not to do so as not enough time. Similarly, in Inari temple it was rushed and couldn't visit the temple or look through the tori gates and the surrounding area properly. Skip the "lunch Included" option as it was of a very poor quality.
Response from the operator: Dear valued customer, Thank you for sharing your experience! We're glad you enjoyed the beautiful sites on the tour. We're sorry you felt the time at each stop was too limited and that the included lunch did not meet your expectations. Your comments have been shared with our team as we continue to improve our tours. Thank you for traveling with us, and we hope to welcome you again in the future. Best regards, VIP Japan Tours
via Viator
Disorganized and unprofessional tour experiences
VIP Japan Tours: I visited Japan in June 2026 with my group, and this company was responsible for our tour. Unfortunately, our experience was extremely disappointing. Despite making several attempts to call and message the company the day before the tour, I never received a response. The only communication I received came two hours after the tour was originally scheduled to begin. After I informed them that this was completely unacceptable, they decided to reschedule the tour for the following day. The problems continued the next morning. While we were on the train, I informed our tour guide, Mi, that we were on our way and only four stops from the meeting point. He instructed us to get off the train and meet the group at Umeda instead. After we arrived at Umeda, he then told us to take a taxi to another location. The entire experience felt like we were constantly chasing the tour guide from one place to another, with little communication or organization. It was stressful, frustrating, and a complete waste of our time. Based on my experience, I cannot recommend this company. I have messages, call records, and other documentation to support everything described in this review. This was one of the most disorganized and unprofessional tour experiences I have ever had.
via Tripadvisor
Busy but fun-filled cultural tour of Kyoto
This tour captures the highlights of Kyoto in one day. You will likely walk over 15K steps but it is so worth it. From the bamboo forest to the beautiful temples and even the lunch that was offered. Everything was so good but our tour guide was the best. He made a long day go by so quickly. He was witty, kind and so informative!!! I forget his name but he was a handsome guy with glasses and the Kanye West doll on his bag. I would highly recommend this tour to families, solo travelers and just about anyone!
Response from the operator: Dear valued customer, Thank you so much for your thoughtful review! We're delighted to hear you had such a fun and memorable day exploring Kyoto and that you enjoyed the bamboo forest, temples, and lunch. It means a lot to know our guide made the long day enjoyable with his humor, kindness, and knowledge. We truly appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you again on a future trip. Best regards, VIP Japan Tours
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 9 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $49 to $13059
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 42
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Why this scores 66
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Optional Lunch : From Osaka / Kyoto: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Osaka.
How much does Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Optional Lunch : From Osaka / Kyoto cost?
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Prices start at $49 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Osaka usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Optional Lunch : From Osaka / Kyoto take?
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Plan for about 9 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Osaka is not rushed.
Is Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Optional Lunch : From Osaka / Kyoto worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 66 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.3/5 across 121 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Osaka, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Optional Lunch : From Osaka / Kyoto?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Optional Lunch : From Osaka / Kyoto suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 9-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Optional Lunch : From Osaka / Kyoto?
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Around 42 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Osaka can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Osaka and add a light layer if any part of the 9-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Optional Lunch : From Osaka / Kyoto start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Osaka within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Osaka?
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On Outty we rank every Osaka experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Hungry Osaka Street Food Tour:15 Tastings & 3 Drinks with a Local, Ultimate Osaka Walking Tour: Castle, Dotonbori, Gems & Lunch, Osaka Castle Walking Tour and Castle Tower Admission. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Osaka?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Osaka?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
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