Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Optional Lunch from Osaka or Kyoto
Traveler rating
4.3/5
Based on 126 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Optional Lunch from Osaka or Kyoto worth booking?
Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Optional Lunch from Osaka or Kyoto is a 9-hour experience in Kyoto, Japan, from $58 per person. It scores 65 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.3/5 rating across 126 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 65 / 100
- Rating
- 4.3/5 (126)
- Duration
- 9 hours
- From
- $58 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, 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. For vegetarian, a flavorful Vegetarian Curry is also available. (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. At day’s end, relax on your bus ride back, with the flexibility to return to Osaka or Kyoto.
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. For vegetarian, a flavorful Vegetarian Curry is also available. (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. 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
Kyoto
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
Kyoto
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 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 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
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
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 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
Vegetarian Curry/Osaka Depart
Vegetarian Curry 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/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
Vegetarian Curry/Kyoto Depart
Vegetarian Curry 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
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 / 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
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 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
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 30 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 125 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
4 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Food and drink
3 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Pace and timing
3 mentionsSeveral reviewers found the schedule tight or the day long.
Value for money
2 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Organization
2 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Traveler reviews
125 verified traveler reviews for Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Optional Lunch from Osaka or Kyoto. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
It was like race to follow the group
First our guide, Amanda didnt give us clear itinerary, or reasons for changing itinerary. For a moment I was confused if I chose the wrong trip. She didn't wait for everyone (about 45 people) getting off the bus. She set off to the road while we were still getting off and she didn't even check if everyone followed. And there were rude people who talked so loud in their language on the speaker phone in the bus, it was really annoying and discomfort.
via Tripadvisor
Kyoto Temples, Shrines and happy times
This was a great tour. There were quite a few experiences included in this one tour, and we had time to enjoy them all. Our guide Harrid was really cool he, had my daughter and I laughing most of the day he made the tour even more fun.
Response from the operator: Dear valued customer, Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear that you and your daughter had such a fun and memorable day exploring Kyoto and Nara with us. It’s fantastic to know that you enjoyed the variety of experiences and had plenty of time to take everything in. We’ll be sure to share your kind words with our guide—he’ll be thrilled to know that his humor and friendly spirit helped make your day even more enjoyable! Thank you again for joining us, and we hope to welcome you back to Japan for many more happy times and unforgettable adventures! Best regards, VIP Japan Tours
via Viator
Great tour with a great guide
This was a long tour and we saw many different places which was fabulous. The guide was very knowledgeable and made everyone laugh so we enjoyed the trip a lot.
Response from the operator: Dear valued customer, Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear that you enjoyed exploring Kyoto and Nara and that our guide’s knowledge and sense of humor made the long day enjoyable. We truly appreciate your kind words and are happy that you had such a memorable experience with us. We hope to welcome you again on your next trip to Japan! Best regards, VIP Japan Tours
via Viator
Great experience
We had nick liu as our guide and let me tell you... he MADE the experience even better! What an extremely funny and smart tour guide! Gave us so much facts about the tours and about the culture itself . We would absolutely recommend this tour to anyone thinking about booking it.
Response from the operator: Dear valued customer, Thank you for your fantastic review! We’re glad to hear that our guide Nick made your Kyoto and Nara experience even more enjoyable. It’s wonderful to know that you appreciated his humor, knowledge, and the cultural insights he shared throughout the tour. Thank you for recommending us, and we hope to see you again on your next trip to Japan! Best regards, VIP Japan Tours
via Viator
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
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
- $58 to $13,059
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 44
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by VIP Japan Tours, who run 29 experiences we rank across 4 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 60.2.
See everything VIP Japan Tours runsWhy this scores 65
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 or Kyoto: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Kyoto.
How much does Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Optional Lunch from Osaka or Kyoto cost?
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Prices start at $58 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Kyoto 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 or 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 Kyoto is not rushed.
Is Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Optional Lunch from Osaka or Kyoto worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 65 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.3/5 across 126 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Kyoto, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Optional Lunch from Osaka or 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 or 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 or Kyoto?
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Around 44 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 Kyoto 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 Kyoto 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 or 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 Kyoto 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 Kyoto?
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On Outty we rank every Kyoto experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Kyoto : Chopsticks Making Workshop with Engraving Option in Gion, Fushimi Inari Hidden Hiking Tour (Private Option Available), Kyoto: Gion Hidden Gems & Geisha Culture Tour. 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 Kyoto?
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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 Kyoto?
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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.
What is included in Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Optional Lunch from Osaka or Kyoto?
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Included: All Fees and Taxes; Lunch (if this option is selected); In-vehicle air conditioning; and English or Chinese Speaking Guide. Not included: Entrance fee to Todaiji temple (Optional); Hotel Pick up / Drop off; and Lunch (Optional). Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Optional Lunch from Osaka or Kyoto?
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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). Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Optional Lunch from Osaka or Kyoto offered in?
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It is offered in Chinese and English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Optional Lunch from Osaka or Kyoto?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Optional Lunch from Osaka or Kyoto wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; Infants under 3 years old are free of charge without seat. If a seat is required, please b; and Regarding luggage, we allow one piece of luggage per person during the excursion. Please a. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Optional Lunch from Osaka or Kyoto if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Optional Lunch from Osaka or Kyoto?
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Across 126 reviews averaging 4.3 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Several reviewers found the schedule tight or the day long.
What booking options are available for Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Optional Lunch from Osaka or Kyoto?
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There are 12 options to choose from, including Kobe-Beef Rice Bowl/Kyoto dep., Kobe-Beef Shabu-shabu /Kyoto, Pork Shabu-shabu / Kyoto Dep., No Lunch / Osaka Departure. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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