Kyoto Uji Matcha Experience & Nara Private 1-Day Tour
Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto Uji Matcha Experience & Nara Private 1-Day Tour

Outty Ranking 54 4.5 · 13 traveler reviews9 hoursFrom $1,139
Instant mobile ticketSpots available today

Outty Ranking

54/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.5/5

Based on 13 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Kyoto Uji Matcha Experience & Nara Private 1-Day Tour worth booking?

Kyoto Uji Matcha Experience & Nara Private 1-Day Tour is a 9-hour experience in Kyoto, Japan, from $1,139 per person. It scores 54 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 4.5/5 rating across 13 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
54 / 100
Rating
4.5/5 (13)
Duration
9 hours
From
$1,139 per person

This full-day experience is a fantastic way to explore the historic cities of Kyoto and Nara. You’ll visit famous temples, shrines, and a park filled with friendly, charming deer. Byodoin Temple is one of Kyoto’s top attractions, known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful setting. The iconic Phoenix Hall, reflected in the temple’s pond, adds to its charm. You’ll also try matcha-making in Uji, a city renowned for its high-quality matcha. Kasuga Taisha Shrine is a UNESCO World Heritage site, Todaiji Temple is one of Nara’s most famous landmarks. Standing about 15 meters tall, the Great Buddha is housed inside the largest wooden structure in the world, where you can view this colossal statue. At Nara Park, you’ll enjoy seeing friendly deer roam freely, adding to the park’s peaceful and charming atmosphere.

What you get

    About this experience

    This full-day experience is a fantastic way to explore the historic cities of Kyoto and Nara. You’ll visit famous temples, shrines, and a park filled with friendly, charming deer. Byodoin Temple is one of Kyoto’s top attractions, known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful setting. The iconic Phoenix Hall, reflected in the temple’s pond, adds to its charm. You’ll also try matcha-making in Uji, a city renowned for its high-quality matcha. Kasuga Taisha Shrine is a UNESCO World Heritage site, Todaiji Temple is one of Nara’s most famous landmarks. Standing about 15 meters tall, the Great Buddha is housed inside the largest wooden structure in the world, where you can view this colossal statue. At Nara Park, you’ll enjoy seeing friendly deer roam freely, adding to the park’s peaceful and charming atmosphere.

    What's included

    Included

    • Entrance fee of Todaiji temple
    • English Guide
    • Lunch
    • Air-conditioned vehicle
    • Entrance fee of Byodoin Temple
    • Experience fee of Matcha making

    Not included

    • Beverages
    • Entrance fee of visiting interior of Phoenix Hall

    What you'll see and do

    1. Byodoin Temple

      Byodoin Temple is one of Kyoto’s top attractions, known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful setting. The iconic Phoenix Hall, reflected in the temple’s pond, adds to its charm. The temple is also famous for its association with the Japanese 10-yen coin.

      70 minutes here · Admission included

    2. You’ll also try matcha-making in Uji, a city renowned for its high-quality matcha. Learn how to prepare authentic Uji matcha in this hands-on experience.

      45 minutes here · Admission included

    3. Kasuga Grand Shrine

      Kasuga Taisha Shrine is a UNESCO World Heritage site and part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara.

      45 minutes here

    4. Todaiji Temple is one of Nara’s most famous landmarks. Standing about 15 meters tall, the Great Buddha is housed inside the largest wooden structure in the world, where you can view this colossal statue.

      60 minutes here · Admission included

    5. Nara Park

      At Nara Park, you’ll enjoy seeing friendly deer roam freely, adding to the park’s peaceful and charming atmosphere.

      30 minutes here

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 10 minutes before departure.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    ja, en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    H.I.S.Co., Ltd.

    Know before you go

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • This is a private tour. Only your group will participate.
    • Please note that wheelchair is not accessible.
    • The schedule may be subject to sudden changes or shorter visit durations due to reasons such as traffic congestion.
    • Refunds will not be provided if you fail to arrive at the meeting location on time (no-show).
    • In the event of a natural disaster, such as a typhoon, the tour will be canceled, and a full refund will be issued.
    • Please take personal responsibility for your valuables.
    • Please inform us of any allergies or dietary restrictions when you book.

    Photos

    Kyoto Uji Matcha Experience & Nara Private 1-Day Tour, photo 2Kyoto Uji Matcha Experience & Nara Private 1-Day Tour, photo 3Kyoto Uji Matcha Experience & Nara Private 1-Day Tour, photo 4Kyoto Uji Matcha Experience & Nara Private 1-Day Tour, photo 5Kyoto Uji Matcha Experience & Nara Private 1-Day Tour, photo 6Kyoto Uji Matcha Experience & Nara Private 1-Day Tour, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 13 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    8 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Food and drink

    5 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    2 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Traveler reviews

    13 verified traveler reviews for Kyoto Uji Matcha Experience & Nara Private 1-Day Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    9
    4 star
    2
    3 star
    2
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    0
    Sort
    DenisD464 · October 2024

    A fabulous tour of Nara and Kyoto

    This was a really excellent tour, such a variety of sights to see around Nara and Kyoto, from temples, to gardens and a really lovely lunch. The guide Emiko was very knowledgable and attentative to the Group. Throughout the tour she engaged very well with the participants.

    via Tripadvisor

    Vicky_W · October 2024

    Great tour and informative guide.

    Yoko is an excellent guide. Very knowledgeable, informative and friendly. My favourite part was the Arashima bamboo forest. It was a small group and only 3 of us continued for the full day including lunch. It’s an excellent way to cram lots of the key sites in. Was disappointed that the palace was missed but it’s closed.

    via Viator

    Angelique_M · July 2024

    Great way to see the sights while avoiding the summer heat

    Emi was a great guide. The most memorable part for me was the bamboo forest and walk back along the river, and the golden temple was the most spectacular part.

    via Viator

    Kejing_C · June 2024

    Golden Pavilion

    Golder pavilion is a beautiful place to visit. All tour is enjoyable. The guide is very helpful but his English is bit hard to catch some time

    via Viator

    JESSICA_V · May 2024

    Covers a lot in a day

    Lovely tour of some of Kyoto’s important historic sites. Our guide Aki was very attentive and knowledgeable. Great way to cover a lot of ground in one day.

    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
    $1,139 to $176,000
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    5
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by H.I.S.Co., Ltd., who run 185 experiences we rank across 10 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 56.5.

    See everything H.I.S.Co., Ltd. runs

    Why this scores 54

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)80
    Review evidence (18% weight)36
    Booking momentum (14% weight)28
    Value for money (12% weight)5
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)32
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Kyoto Uji Matcha Experience & Nara Private 1-Day Tour: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Kyoto.

    How much does Kyoto Uji Matcha Experience & Nara Private 1-Day Tour cost?

    +

    Prices start at $1,139 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 Uji Matcha Experience & Nara Private 1-Day Tour take?

    +

    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 Uji Matcha Experience & Nara Private 1-Day Tour worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 54 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.5/5 across 13 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 Uji Matcha Experience & Nara Private 1-Day Tour?

    +

    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 Uji Matcha Experience & Nara Private 1-Day Tour suitable for kids and families?

    +

    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 Uji Matcha Experience & Nara Private 1-Day Tour?

    +

    Around 5 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?

    +

    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 Uji Matcha Experience & Nara Private 1-Day Tour start and how do I get there?

    +

    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?

    +

    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 Ghost Tour: Dark Tales, Urban Legends, Bamboo Forest Night, Kyoto : Chopsticks Making Workshop with Engraving Option in Gion, 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?

    +

    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?

    +

    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?

    +

    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 Uji Matcha Experience & Nara Private 1-Day Tour?

    +

    Included: Entrance fee of Todaiji temple; English Guide; Lunch; Air-conditioned vehicle; and Entrance fee of Byodoin Temple. Not included: Beverages; and Entrance fee of visiting interior of Phoenix Hall. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Kyoto Uji Matcha Experience & Nara Private 1-Day Tour include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 1 listed pickup location in and around Kyoto. Be ready about 10 minutes before the start time.

    What languages is Kyoto Uji Matcha Experience & Nara Private 1-Day Tour offered in?

    +

    It is offered in Japanese 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 Uji Matcha Experience & Nara Private 1-Day Tour?

    +

    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 Uji Matcha Experience & Nara Private 1-Day Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; Not recommended for pregnant travelers; and Please note that wheelchair is not accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Kyoto Uji Matcha Experience & Nara Private 1-Day Tour if the weather is bad?

    +

    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 Uji Matcha Experience & Nara Private 1-Day Tour?

    +

    Across 13 reviews averaging 4.5 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, food and drink, knowledge and storytelling. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Kyoto Uji Matcha Experience & Nara Private 1-Day Tour.

    Pick your date