Kyoto, the cultural jewel of Japan, captivates with its timeless beauty. There is a wealth of tourist attractions in Kyoto - from the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousand vermilion torii gates to the majestic Kinkaku-ji Temple, creating an immersive journey through Japan’s storied heritage. One of the unique experiences Kyoto offers is temple stays, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the spiritual ambience of these sacred sites. For those who seek more modern accommodations, Kyoto has a selection of some of the best hotels. Your keen interest in traditional arts finds ample satisfaction with tea ceremonies and kimono experiences. Exploring the meticulously landscaped gardens and imperial palaces evokes a deep appreciation for meticulous Japanese aesthetics. In this city, your passion for history and culture finds its perfect muse. If you want to experience it all - check out this list of the best tours to Kyoto, Japan!
1. Kyoto temples and shrines day tour from Osaka (from USD 59.39)
Embark on an unforgettable Kyoto temples and shrines day tour from Osaka, encompassing iconic destinations. Marvel at the UNESCO-listed Kiyomizu-dera Temple’s serene beauty and explore the golden splendour of Kinkaku-ji surrounded by meticulously maintained Japanese gardens. Traverse the enchanting Fushimi Inari Taisha, a shrine dedicated to the god of rice and sake, adorned with thousands of vibrant gates.
The tour includes an optional traditional Japanese lunch. Enjoy seamless and comfortable transportation to and from Osaka, ensuring a hassle-free experience for all tourists.
Kyoto Temples & Shrines Day Tour from Osaka
2. Kyoto and Nara bus tour from Osaka (from USD 81.13)
Embark on an extraordinary Kyoto and Nara bus tour. Your first stop will be the revered Kinkaku-ji Temple, followed by the bamboo grove of Arashiyama, the shrine of Fushimi Inari Taisha, and Nara Park. Enjoy flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior. The 10 to 11-hour journey is led by English and Chinese-speaking guides.
Revel in the Arashiyama bamboo forest’s natural beauty and meet the lively deer at Nara Park. Don’t forget to click pictures of the iconic vermilion gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha and the golden pavilion temple of Kinkaku-ji. With two starting and drop-off options, this tour promises a convenient exploration of Kyoto.
From Osaka/Kyoto: Kyoto & Nara Bus Tour w/ Kinkakuji Ticket
Duration: 10.0 to 11.0 hour
3. Kyoto highlights day trip from Osaka (from USD 72.56)
Embark on a captivating Kyoto day trip from Osaka that includes all the must-go-to places in Kyoto. Marvel at the iconic gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha, a testament to Shinto grandeur, and explore Kiyomizu-dera, a Buddhist temple with a remarkable wooden stage offering panoramic views.
Next, you will arrive at the resplendent Kinkaku-ji, adorned in gold leaf and surrounded by meticulously preserved gardens. Conclude your journey in the enchanting Arashiyama, where the Sagano Bamboo Forest whispers ancient secrets. This wonderful excursion ensures that you experience Kyoto’s timeless beauty in comfort.
From Osaka: Kyoto Top Highlights Day Trip
Duration: 9.0 to 10.5 hour
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Kyoto sightseeing tour with a train ride (from USD 72.56)
Embark on this mesmerizing Kyoto sightseeing tour that includes a train ride along a scenic mountain path. This unforgettable journey transports you to the heart of Kyoto’s cultural wonders.
Hop aboard a scenic train, traversing picturesque landscapes en route to Arashiyama. Once there, you will be treated to a buffet lunch. Then, go on to explore the UNESCO-listed Kiyomizu-dera Temple and the renowned Fushimi Inari Taisha with its vivid gates. With knowledgeable guides and seamless transportation, this tour offers a hassle-free way to immerse yourself in Kyoto’s rich heritage and scenic beauty, making it a must-try activity for travellers in Kyoto.
From Osaka: Kyoto Sightseeing Tour with Scenic Train Ride
Duration: 9.0 to 10.5 hour
5. Kyoto rail tour by bullet train from Tokyo (from USD 430.0)
Come aboard the Shinkansen and prepare yourself for a spectacular trip to Kyoto. Before reaching Kyoto, you will get to see Mt Fuji. The whole trip will take 12 hours and is split to two days, so prepare yourself for a day full of mind-blowing experiences. In the better part of the morning hours, you will get to visit Kiyomizudera Temple, Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine, and the Sanjusangen-do Hall before catching the evening train. The next day takes the two-hour ride back to Kyoto and visits to the Kiyomizudera Temple which is perched on a hilltop and the Otowa springs that flows under the temple.
1-Day Kyoto Rail Tour by Bullet Train from Tokyo
Duration: 12 hours
6. Two-day Kyoto and Nara rail tour by bullet train from Tokyo (from USD 691.0)
Take a two-day trip on board a bullet train from Tokyo. Venture to Kiyomizu Temple and the Nijo Castle which are among UNESCO World Heritage sites. On your way to Kyoto, you get to see the magnificent site of Mt. Fuji’s snow-capped peak. Get blown away by the 1,001 Sanjusangendo Hall statues, Kiyomizu Temple, the Golden Pavilion Temple, and the Heian Shrine. This is a two-day trip and you are picked from the hotel. Transportation, selected meals, accommodation, and entrance fees are all included in the tour fees.
2-Day Kyoto and Nara Rail Tour by Bullet Train from Tokyo
Duration: 2 days
7. Three-day Kyoto and Hiroshima independent tour by Nozomi bullet train from Tokyo (from USD 415.0)
Take an independent three days trip and enjoy the spectacular sites as you head to Kyoto and Hiroshima by the Nozomi bullet train from Tokyo. These two cities are among the most popular cities in Japan. Kyoto is home to some exquisite temples found in the region. This trip will take you roughly two days to complete so prepare yourself for approximately three days full of adventure and fun. Visit the modern town of Hiroshima and go through the Peace Park, the Aioni Bridge and then catch a glimpse of the only living tree that survived the atomic bomb in the Shukkei-in Park.
Kyoto, Hiroshima Self-Guided 3-Day by Bullet Train from Tokyo
Duration: 3 days
8. Kyoto morning tour of Kinkaku-Ji Temple, Nijo Castle and Kyoto Imperial Palace from Osaka (from USD 96.0)
Visit UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Kinkaku-Ji Temple and the Nijo Castle as you travel from Osaka to Kyoto in a bullet train. Visit the Kyoto Handicraft Center and the Kyoto Imperial Palace. Enjoy captivating views of the landmarks and a full cherry blossom garden at its peak. The Nijo Castle was built in 1603 and is home to Tokugawa shotguns and its massive stone walls and the sheer size of the gate is a sight worth seeing. Visit the Golden Pavilion as you head to the Kyoto Imperial Palace where the royal family resided before the capital was relocated to Tokyo.
Kinkakuji Temple, Nijo Castle, Kyoto Palace Tour from Osaka
Duration: 7 hours
9. hour sightseeing trip from Osaka to Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe (from USD 79.0)
Explore destinations out of Osaka for a day and take a 12-hour journey to see Kyoto, Kobe, and Nara. Board the Randen tram and enjoy the scenic ride and visit sites like Kyoto Arashiyama and the local wildlife. Arashiyama is mostly beautiful around April and November. The area is transformed into a beautiful and colourful garden of cherry blossoms. You also enjoy front seat views of the traditional cormorant fishing which is practised on Hozu River. Tour the Todaiji Temple which is found within the Nara Park. The Todai-Ji Nandaimon Gate which is the main gate to Todai-Ji Temple is a national treasure.
12-Hour Sightseeing Trip from Osaka/Kyoto to Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe
Duration: 12 hours
10. Day trip by bus from Osaka to Kyoto
Visit and explore the best UNESCO World Heritage sites on a nine-hour tour. Some of the sides that you will get to see include the district of Gion and the Fushimi Inari Shrine. You will get to enjoy watching the Maiko, a Geiko apprentice geisha performance and also take part in a tea ceremony. A woman who has been trained in the art of music, dancing and singing to entertain a guest is called a Geiko. For lunch, there is an all-you-can-eat soup made with fish or chicken broth and other ingredients called Chankonabe. This is a meal eaten by sumo wrestlers to gain power.
Osaka to Kyoto: Highlights Tour and Gion District Tea Ceremony
Duration: 9 hours
Train ride to adventure
What is Kyoto famous for? Kyoto is famous for its rich cultural heritage, including ancient temples, traditional tea ceremonies, exquisite gardens, and its well-preserved historic districts like Gion, making it a symbol of Japan’s historical and aesthetic legacy.
Embark on enchanting tours in Kyoto, Japan, where ancient temples and picturesque gardens transport you to another time. Delight in sightseeing in Kyoto, Japan, as you uncover its rich cultural tapestry.
Frequently asked questions about tours to Kyoto, Japan
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
-
-
-
-
-
-
10 Best Michelin-Star Restaurants In KyotoRyan Joshua -
-
-
Create an account to