Kyoto Itinerary

Amanohashidate - Amanohashidate, meaning “bridge in heaven,” is a naturally occurring sandbar covered in pine trees that links the two sides of Miyazu Bay in Northern Kyoto. Alongside Miyajima and Matsushima, it is celebrated as one of “the three views of Japan.” The observatories at “Kasamatsu Park” in the north and “Amanohashidate View Land” in the south offer stunning vistas. Visitors can also enjoy a walk through the pine tree-lined street, admiring the diverse pine species. The view from the Land’s Rear View Observatory, “Mata no zoki-dai,” resembles a dragon soaring in the sky, hence the name “Flying Dragon Observatory” (“Hiryu-kan”). Aerial lifts or cable cars provide a convenient option for those with limited time who still wish to enjoy the breathtaking scenery.

Ine no Funaya - This picturesque seaside fishing village is renowned for its unique “funaya,” or boathouses, lining the bay. The town hosts the Urashima Shrine, linked to the classic Japanese folk tale of Urashima Taro. Visitors can also take the Ine Bay Sightseeing Boat for a peaceful tour of the area. Onboard, enjoy the beautiful bay views and iconic funaya. Lucky visitors might even spot dolphins swimming alongside the boat. The bay’s calm waters are protected by Aoshima Island, an uninhabited island believed to be the home of the gods, which shields the bay from wind and waves.

Arashiyama - Arashiyama (嵐山) is a charming, tourist-friendly district on Kyoto’s western outskirts. It has been a favored destination since the Heian Period (794-1185), when nobles enjoyed its natural beauty. Arashiyama is especially popular during cherry blossom and fall foliage seasons. The Togetsukyo Bridge is Arashiyama’s iconic central landmark. Nearby, visitors will find small shops, restaurants, and attractions, including Tenryuji Temple, Arashiyama’s famous bamboo groves, and pleasure boats available for rent on the river. North of central Arashiyama, the atmosphere becomes more rural, with small temples scattered along the wooded mountain base. The area north of the Togetsukyo Bridge is known as Sagano, while “Arashiyama” technically refers to the mountains south of the river but is commonly used to describe the entire district.

Kinkakuji Temple - Originally named Rokuonji, Kinkakuji Temple is the sole remaining building from Yoshimitsu’s former retirement villas and is now a graceful Zen temple overlooking a large pond, as per Ashikaga Yoshimitsu’s wishes upon his death in 1408. Its upper two floors are entirely covered in gold leaf, giving it a golden appearance, hence its nickname, the Golden Pavilion.

Nijo Castle - Once an imperial villa, Nijo Castle is now a World Heritage site. It witnessed the rise and fall of the Tokugawa clan and other significant political events in Japanese history, including the Meiji Restoration announcement. It briefly served as an imperial palace after the Tokugawa shogunate’s fall, and its palace buildings are considered the best surviving examples of castle palace architecture from Japan’s feudal era. A notable feature of the palace is the “nightingale floors” (uguisubari) in the corridors, which chirp when walked upon as a security measure against intruders.

Kyoto Imperial Palace - The Kyoto Imperial Palace (Kyoto Gosho) was the residence of Japan’s Imperial Family until 1868, when the emperor and capital moved from Kyoto to Tokyo. It is located in the expansive Kyoto Imperial Park (Kyõto Gyoen), an attractive park in the city’s center that also includes the Sento Imperial Palace and other attractions. The current Imperial Palace was reconstructed in 1855 after being repeatedly burned down and relocated over the centuries.

Nishiki Market Shopping District - Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” Nishiki Market is a narrow, five-block-long shopping street lined with over a hundred shops and restaurants. This bustling market specializes in all things food-related, such as fresh seafood, produce, knives, and cookware, and is an excellent place to find seasonal foods and Kyoto specialties, including Japanese sweets, pickles, dried seafood, and sushi. Nishiki Market has a lively yet inviting atmosphere for those eager to explore Kyoto’s culinary delights.

Ginkakuji Temple - Ginkakuji (銀閣寺, Silver Pavilion) is a Zen temple along Kyoto’s eastern mountains (Higashiyama). In 1482, shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa built his retirement villa on the grounds of today’s temple, modeled after Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion), his grandfather’s retirement villa at the base of Kyoto’s northern mountains (Kitayama). The villa was converted into a Zen temple after Yoshimasa’s death in 1490.

Nanzen-ji Temple - Nestled among beautiful mountains, Nanzen-ji is one of Japan’s most renowned Rinzai Zen temples. Originally Emperor Kameyama’s retirement villa, it includes a temple hall and garden centered around a pond. A notable feature is the large brick aqueduct that runs through the temple grounds, part of a canal system built to transport water and goods between Kyoto and Lake Biwa in neighboring Shiga Prefecture.

Gion - Gion, Kyoto’s most famous geisha district, is located along Shijo Avenue between the Kamo River to the west and Yasaka Shrine to the east. The area is filled with shops, restaurants, and ochaya (teahouses) offering entertainment by geiko (Kyoto’s term for geisha) and maiko (geiko apprentices). Gion’s significant concentration of traditional wooden machiya merchant houses attracts tourists. These homes were built with narrow facades only five to six meters wide but extend up to twenty meters from the street, as property taxes were once based on street frontage. Nearby is Kiyomizudera, one of Japan’s most famous temples, meaning “Pure Water Temple.”

Sanjusangendo Temple - A sanctuary in eastern Kyoto, celebrated for its 1001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. Established in 1164 and rebuilt a century later after a fire destroyed the original structure, the temple hall is Japan’s longest wooden structure, measuring 120 meters. The name Sanjusangendo, meaning 33 intervals, refers to the number of intervals between the building’s support columns, a traditional method of measuring a building’s size.

Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine - Established in 711 AD, Fushimi Inari Taisha has been a place for people to pray for abundant harvests, business success, family safety, and the fulfillment of various wishes for 1300 years. It is now globally recognized as one of Kyoto’s and Japan’s most iconic sights. The shrine is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, which form a network of trails behind its main buildings. These trails lead into the sacred Mount Inari’s wooded forest, standing at 233 meters, offering a perfect nature trail for hiking enthusiasts.

Osaka

Osaka Castle - Osaka Castle, or “Osaka-jo” in Japanese, is one of Japan’s most famous landmarks, and for good reason. This five-story castle is one of the country’s most visually stunning creations, with a history dating back nearly 450 years! Constructed in 1583 on the former site of the Ishiyama Honganji Temple by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, it served as the center of a new, unified Japan under his rule. While the castle itself is beautiful, the surrounding parks are also worth exploring!

Dotombori - A major tourist destination in Osaka, located along the Dōtonbori canal. The area is renowned for its nightlife, featuring a vibrant array of neon lights, delicious street food, retro vibes, shops, and bars. It is also home to the famous Glico Man sign, a popular photo spot for both tourists and locals.

Cup Noodle Museum Osaka Ikeda - Dedicated to ramen noodle cups, the museum showcases the astonishing variety of instant ramen flavors developed over the years and includes a replica of the hut where Momofuku Ando first created them.

Minoo Park - A natural haven just outside Osaka. A leisurely exploration of the park reveals its lush greenery and tranquil ambiance. Within it lies the serene Minoosan Ryuanji Temple, offering a peaceful retreat. Visitors can marvel at the majestic Waterfall of Mino, promising awe-inspiring natural beauty. Conclude the park tour with a relaxing break at Yamamoto Coffee-kan, where exquisite local coffee and snacks await. This journey is a perfect blend of nature, spiritual rejuvenation, and culinary indulgence, ideal for families and nature enthusiasts.

Shinsekai - Shinsekai, meaning “New World,” is a district in Osaka originally created before WWII and later developed to resemble New York and Paris in its northern and southern sections, respectively. Tsutenkaku Tower, a nostalgic symbol of Shinsekai, and its iconic neighborhoods with retro vibes and nostalgic neon attract visitors from near and far. Some sections still showcase Osaka’s true, local colors.

Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street - A small street that has served the city and its eateries for centuries, this area is filled with wholesalers, gift shops, and specialty shops offering cutlery and crockery, among other wares.

Kuromon Market - A popular covered market in Osaka, Japan, also known as the “Gastronome” or “Osaka’s Kitchen,” with a history spanning over 200 years. The market is famous for its fresh seafood, meat, and produce, showcasing some of Japan’s finest seafood, both prepared and ready to eat.

Hozenji Yokocho - A narrow, hard-to-find alleyway that preserves the atmosphere of old Japan with traditional lanterns and cobblestone paths. Visitors can also explore Hozen-ji Temple, a small Buddhist temple just off Dotonbori, built in the 17th century and dedicated to Fudo Myoo, one of Buddhism’s five wisdom kings.

Dotombori District - Situated along the Dōtonbori canal, this area is known for its vibrant nightlife, featuring a dazzling array of neon lights, delectable street food, retro vibes, shops, and bars. It is also home to the famous Glico Man sign, a popular photo spot for tourists and locals alike.

Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street - A covered shopping street that has been Osaka’s premier shopping area for 400 years, with hundreds of shops lining this 600-meter-long street. Visitors can experience Japan’s love of consumer retail and enjoy some shopping!

Nara

Nara Park - Alongside Naramachi and Nishinokyo, Nara Park is a must-see area in Nara City. Covering 660 hectares, it is renowned for its free-roaming deer and world-famous temples. Feeding the deer is an attraction in itself, with special crackers available for purchase throughout the park.

Todai-ji Temple - Home to a giant bronze statue of Buddha (Daibutsu), this UNESCO World Heritage site is considered one of the world’s largest wooden buildings. The temple complex is a significant cultural and historical site, attracting visitors with its impressive architecture and religious significance. To the east is the famous Nigatsudo Temple, offering one of Nara’s most beautiful scenes, especially at sunset. It is best known for Omizutori, an annual fire and water ceremony involving huge flaming torches believed to have healing properties.

Higashimuki Shopping Street - Kofuku-ji Temple, located in Nara, Japan, is a historic Buddhist temple dating back to the 7th century. The temple complex includes several pagodas, halls, and beautiful gardens. Kofuku-ji is an essential part of Nara’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, showcasing ancient Japanese architecture and religious artifacts.

Kofuku-ji Temple - Kofuku-ji Temple, located in Nara, Japan, is a historic Buddhist temple dating back to the 7th century. The temple complex includes several pagodas, halls, and beautiful gardens. Kofuku-ji is an essential part of Nara’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, showcasing ancient Japanese architecture and religious artifacts.

Sanjodori Street - Sanjo-dori is a prominent street in Kyoto, Japan, known for its shopping and dining experiences. It stretches across the city, connecting the popular Gion district with the bustling Kawaramachi area. Visitors can explore a variety of shops, traditional tea houses, and modern boutiques along this historic street.

Isuien Garden - A traditional Japanese garden featuring a pond, teahouse, and meticulously landscaped elements, offering a peaceful and scenic retreat. The nearby Neiraku Museum showcases a collection of fine arts and crafts, providing a serene and cultural experience in the heart of Nara.

Kasuga Grand Shrine - Kasuga Taisha is famous for its lanterns, donated by worshippers. Hundreds of bronze lanterns hang from the buildings, while numerous stone lanterns line its approaches. The lanterns are lit twice a year during two Lantern Festivals, one in early February and one in mid-August. Many smaller auxiliary shrines are located in the woods around Kasuga Taisha, with twelve along a path past the main shrine complex dedicated to the twelve lucky gods.

Naramachi - In Naramachi, visitors can experience the atmosphere of old times created by historic Machiya (merchant townhouses) and small alleys full of interesting sights. The area features charming cafes and shops.

Kobe

Mt. Rokko - Mount Rokko (六甲山, Rokkōsan, 931 meters) is the highest peak in the Rokko mountain range, providing a lush green backdrop to Kobe city. It offers panoramic views of the heavily urbanized Hanshin region (Kobe and Osaka), which are particularly spectacular at sunset. Visitors can enjoy a ropeway ride up to Nunobiki Herb Garden, observing Nunobiki Waterfalls and the panoramic view of Kobe city along the way.

Kobe Shu-shin-kan Breweries - Shushinkan features a large shop selling sake and sake-related products, as well as a restaurant serving Japanese cuisine paired with sake. Free guided tours of the sake warehouse are held daily, except in December. Sake tasting is also available.

Port of Kobe Earthquake Memorial Park - On January 17, 1995, at 5:46 am, Kobe was struck by the Great Hanshin Awaji Earthquake, resulting in over 5000 deaths and the destruction of tens of thousands of homes. This museum, opened in 2002, commemorates the tragic event and educates visitors about earthquakes and disaster prevention. It includes a large-screen theater with realistic images of the earthquake’s destructiveness, a documentary film about the recovery process, and various interactive games about disaster prevention.

Kitano Ijinkan-gai - This district in Kobe was home to many foreign merchants and diplomats after the Port of Kobe opened to foreign trade in the late 19th century. More than a dozen former mansions, known as Ijinkan, remain and are open to the public as museums. The district is pleasant to walk through and offers a variety of cafes, restaurants, and boutiques, making it a favorite among families and couples.

Chinatown (Nankinmachi) - Nankinmachi (南京町) was developed by Chinese merchants who settled near Kobe Port after it opened to foreign trade in 1868. Named after Nanjing, the former Chinese capital, two main streets run through the district, meeting at a small plaza in the center. They are filled with shops, restaurants, and food stands selling popular items like steamed buns (manju), ramen, tapioca drinks, and various other Chinese dishes, many of which have been adapted to Japanese tastes. It remains a vibrant center for the Chinese community in the Kansai region.

Kobe Harborland - Located slightly west of downtown, Kobe Harborland is a leading tourist area and a large commercial complex in the city, featuring shopping malls, restaurants, movie theaters, and other recreational facilities. The Takahama Wharf, where ships including the Kobe Concerto cruise ship berth, is a perfect spot for a stroll while enjoying the refreshing sea breeze.

• Private transportation
• Pick-up and drop-off at hotel and other locations
• In-vehicle air conditioning

• On-board restrooms
• Admission fees are not included

Experience the enchanting allure of renowned destinations in Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Kobe with personalized tours designed to match your interests. You have the flexibility to adhere to a pre-arranged itinerary or choose the most intriguing excursions during the tour. Discover famous landmarks and hidden treasures in serene countryside locations, such as Amanohashidate and Ine no Funaya village in northern Kyoto, or embark on a Mt. Rokko adventure in Kobe, among others.

Additionally, explore incredible sites in various cities beyond your current location. For example, while staying in Osaka, you can take day trips to Kyoto, Nara, or Kobe, and return to enjoy Osaka’s vibrant nightlife.

We also offer the convenience of traveling with you from one city to another, such as picking you up in Kyoto, visiting Nara, and dropping you off in Osaka at the end of your journey.

NOTE: The listed price is for a single-day tour in any of the cities. You can also book a 4-day tour to explore all the cities.

If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.