Full-Day Trip to Arashiyama, Fushimi Inari and Nara Park from Osaka or Kyoto

Overview

Set off on a day of discovery between Kyoto and Nara, accompanied by a professional guide. This excursion allows you to explore some of Japan's most iconic sites, with departure options from either Osaka or Kyoto. The itinerary includes a visit to Nara Park, where you can observe free-roaming deer, as well as the Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine and its famous rows of torii gates. The stop in Arashiyama will take you through the bamboo grove, Nonomiya Shrine, the Kimono Forest, and the Nakanoshima area. You will also visit the Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Transport is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle. Please note that lunch is not included and the entrance fee for Tenryu-ji Temple (500 yen) is at your own expense.

Itinerary

1. There are around 30,000 Inari shrines in Japan, Fushimi Inari Taisha is the head shrine, to worship the Shinto god of rice, Inari. The shrine is renowned for Senbon Torii, thousands of vermilion red torii gates, which create a stunning and immersive tunnel-like pathway up the sacred Mount Inari. In the 1300 years since its establishment in 711AD, people have gathered here to pray for bountiful harvests, business prosperity, the safety of their home and family, and the fulfillment of all other wishes.

   · 1 h 10 min

2. Nara Park is one of the must-see areas in Nara City and is one of the oldest parks in Japan. The vast area covers 660 hectares and is renowned for its free-roaming deer and world-famous temples. These tame creatures are believed to be sacred messengers of the Shinto gods and walk freely in Nara. Over time, these cute deers have learned to bow to visitors-a sign for a treat. For over 1,300 years, humans and deer have peacefully coexisted in Nara. Today, they are protected as Natural Monuments, and revered as holy animals in Nara.

   · 1 h

3. Forêt de bambous de Sagano

   This is a representative sightseeing spot of Arashiyama. The promenade has a solemn atmosphere with its rows of overgrown bamboos covering the sky. Take a leisurely stroll through this area, which was once a villa for aristocrats in the Heian period, and enjoy a special moment to feel the beauty of nature through the sunlight filtering through the trees and the sound of leaves rustling in the air. For an added touch of adventure, consider a rickshaw ride through this shaded sanctuary, where every turn reveals a new perspective of its tranquil beauty.

   · 1 h

4. Nonomiya Shrine

   Nonomiya Shrine is a Shinto shrine in the Arashiyama district on the west side of the city of Kyoto. Unlike most shrines that feature iconic vermilion torii gates, Nonomiya Shrine has a distinctive black torii gate known as a kuroki torii. Despite its small size, the shrine has a lengthy history, founded in antiquity as a purification shrine for imperial princesses who were appointed as priestesses for Ise Shrine. Nonomiya Shrine has a reputation for helping and interceding on behalf of women, and many parishioners are women who want to find love or wish for children and a safe childbirth. Many of the omamori on sale at the shrine reflect the theme of women’s happiness, and you can find a variety of amulets available at the shrine office.

   · 20 min

5. Tenryu-ji Temple

   Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a true gem of the Arashiyama district in Kyoto and is ranked as the top among the city's five great Zen temples. While visiting Tenryu-ji, be sure to experience the stunning Sogenchi Garden. Designed by the renowned Zen master Muso Soseki, this garden has maintained its timeless beauty over the years. The picturesque landscape features a central pond surrounded by rocks, pine trees, and the forested mountains of Arashiyama.

   · 20 min· Admission not included

6. Arashiyama Park Nakanoshima Area

   Nestled in the heart of Kyoto, the Arashiyama Park Nakanoshima Area offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, known for its stunning cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn colors. Situated on the serene island of Nakanoshima along the Katsura River, this enchanting destination provides a tranquil escape from the bustling tourist spots of Arashiyama. It has stone-covered riverbanks where you can get pretty close to the river and some nice shots of Togetsukyō Bridge and the Katsura River. Step into a postcard-perfect scene at the Togetsu Bridge, a timeless symbol of Arashiyama. As you stroll across its wooden parapet, let the breathtaking views of the Katsura River and surrounding mountains envelop you in tranquility, making it a perfect spot for those looking to immerse themselves in the essence of Kyoto.

   · 30 min

7. Arashiyama Kimono Forest

   The Kimono Forest is a distinctive textile art installation made up of 600 clear acrylic cylinders, each standing 2 meters tall. These pillars are adorned with vibrant kimono fabrics featuring a range of designs, from elegant floral patterns to geometric shapes and traditional Japanese symbols. The installation showcases 32 traditional Kyo-yuzen designs. The Kimono Forest is a must-see attraction that provides a unique and enchanting perspective on traditional Japanese textiles and craftsmanship.

   · 20 min

How to use your ticket

Tips: * We will send you a message requesting your email address. After we receive it, we will email you specific tour guide information around 6 PM the day before your trip. This will help ensure a smooth experience and facilitate communication with your guide on the day of the tour. * The meeting point cannot change on the day of the trip. If a change is necessary, please inform us at least one day in advance. * Please arrive at the meeting point 10-15 minutes before the scheduled departure time. Latecomers or no-shows will not be eligible for a refund. * Please inform us at least one day in advance if you have placed an order separately from your relatives or friends. This will help avoid the situation where you and your companions are assigned to different vehicles.

Meeting point

What to know before you go

• Infants must sit on an adult's lap.
• Not recommended for travellers with spinal problems.
• Not recommended for travellers with cardiovascular problems.
• Not recommended for pregnant women.
• Public transport is available nearby.
• Prams or strollers are permitted for babies and young children.
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels.
• Please specify upon booking if you are travelling with a stroller or bulky luggage.
• Please inform the organiser at least 24 hours in advance if you have booked separately from your companions to be assigned to the same vehicle.
• Not recommended for wheelchair users.
• The group is limited to a maximum of 45 participants.
• Confirmation is immediate upon booking.

Travelers

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation for a full refund up to at least 24 hours before departure.

• No refund is possible for cancellations made less than 24 hours before departure.

Who is it for?

• Travellers staying in Osaka or Kyoto
• People wishing to discover Nara and Kyoto in a single day
• English or Chinese speaking travellers
• Families with young children (strollers accepted)

What makes it different

• Flexible departure point (Osaka or Kyoto)
• Itinerary combining three major sites: Arashiyama, Fushimi Inari and Nara
• Transport in an air-conditioned vehicle with a guide

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

Product code: 444978P16

Activity offered by F Trip via Viator.