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OsakaCulture & history

Our most recommended Osaka Culture & history

Kyoto and Nara 1 Day Bus Tour from Osaka/Kyoto

1. Kyoto and Nara 1 Day Bus Tour from Osaka/Kyoto

Depart from the exclusive VIP waiting rooms of Osaka or Kyoto, heading to Fushimi Inari Taisha. Designated as an Important Cultural Property, the main shrine building contains five shrines together, these five pillars of Fushimi Inari Taisha are named for the great virtues of Inari Okami that they embody. Inari Okami is known as a deity of business prosperity, the prosperity of industries, the safety of households, safety in traffic and improvement in the performing arts. The 'Senbon Torii' or 1000 torii gates are donations by individuals and companies, and you will find the donator's name and the date of the donation inscribed on the back of each gate. Then you will head to Arashiyama, which changes with the seasons and you can enjoy the scenery any time of year, with cherry blossoms in the spring, boat festivals in the Summer, red leaves in Autumn and snow white mountains in the winter. Arashiyama is also filled with temples and shrines including the match-making Shrine you can visit, during your walk through the famed Bamboo grove. There are a variety of restaurants to choose right near the Togetsukyo bridge, including vegan and Halal. Proceed to the symbol of Kyoto, Kinkakuji, the Golden Pavilion, also named Rakuon-ji: one of the most popular buildings in Japan. Finally, move on to Japan’s old capital, Nara: you will have the time to explore its park, cuddle the worldwide famous deer and enter the biggest wooden building of the planet, Todai-ji Temple, another UNESCO world heritage site. Here you will find yourself in front of Japan’s biggest Buddha statue, 15 meters tall.

Osaka: Five Must-See Highlights Walking Tour & Ramen Lunch

2. Osaka: Five Must-See Highlights Walking Tour & Ramen Lunch

Osaka has many defferent names, such as the city of foods, the city of marchants, the city of comedy, the city where the Sengoku period ended . It means she is very diverse, tolerant , the people there are so entertained and adventurous. That is reason why so many foreigners are fascinated by her. Well, Let’s start the walking tour with us to find the real Osaka at a walking pace, from the perspective of a walker. We shall visit Osaka's 5 Must-See Sights with expierianced local English guide; (1) Osaka Castle Museum : Many highlights such as cultural asset exhibitions and the restored golden tea room. (2)Dotonbori : One of the principal tourist destinations in Osaka, check "Running Man" above Ebisbashi bridge ! (3)Kuromon Market : A covered public market that dates back to Edo period. Enjoy streetfoods ! (4)Tsutenkaku Tower : Osaka’s symbolic tower. The statue of the good luck god Billiken is on the tower's top observatory. (5)Shitennoji Temple : One of the Japan's oldest Budist temples, the first ever to be built by the state. Also try very tasty Ramen for lunch !

From Osaka: Himeji Castle, Arima Onsen & Mt. Rokko Day Trip

3. From Osaka: Himeji Castle, Arima Onsen & Mt. Rokko Day Trip

Join this bus tour from central Osaka to visit the best of historical landmarks and natural beauty in one single day. Enjoy a relaxing bus transfer with guided commentary as you travel between the stops. Discover the most beautiful castle in Japan, Himeji Castle, and the Kouroen Former Residence Park. Visit Arima, known for it's historic hot springs. and Mount Rokko, a popular spot in the Kansai region, offering breathtaking panoramic views. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and savor the tranquility of this mountainous retreat. This exciting journey will take you through some of Japan's most iconic destinations in just one day. Itinerary: 08:30 - Depart from Osaka Namba We will start our journey from VIP Villa Namba in Osaka. 10:00 - Himeji Castle Our first stop will be Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site and one of Japan's national treasures. Also known as "White Heron Castle," it boasts impressive architecture and a rich history dating back centuries. 11:40 - Kouroen Former Residence Park After exploring Himeji Castle, we'll visit Kouroen Former Residence Park, where you'll have some free time to enjoy lunch at your leisure. 14:00 - Arima Onsen Excursion Next, we'll head to Arima Onsen, one of Japan's three famous hot springs. Relax and rejuvenate in the healing waters of this ancient onsen, known as the oldest hot spring in Japan. 16:00 - Mount Rokko Our final destination will be Mount Rokko, a popular spot in the Kansai region, offering breathtaking panoramic views. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and savor the tranquility of this mountainous retreat. 18:30 - Return to VIP Villa Namba We'll wrap up the day and return to Osaka Namba, where our memorable journey ends. Join us on this unforgettable day trip and witness the captivating charm of Himeji Castle, the relaxation of Arima Onsen, and the enchantment of Mount Rokko. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the best of Japan in one day!

From Osaka or Kyoto: Hiroshima and Miyajima Train & Bus Tour

4. From Osaka or Kyoto: Hiroshima and Miyajima Train & Bus Tour

Head out of Osaka or Kyoto on a day trip to Hiroshima to visit the sobering Atomic Bomb Dome, as well as the uplifting Itsukushima Shrine. Sit back and relax in a bullet train from your starting point, then enjoy the comfort of a tour bus while you visit Hiroshima. Meet your guide and head to your bullet train, also known as shinkansen, to make your way to Hiroshima. Once arrived, hop onto your tour bus to begin your visit of the city's main attractions and world heritage sites. First, make your way to the Atomic Bomb Dome in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. See and feel the weight of the effects of nuclear warfare firsthand, as you look at the derelict dome in front of you. Lunch is Authentic Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki which is topped with pork, cabbage, bean sprout and noodles (*in stated as included in the plan) Next, head back into the bus and make your way to catch the ferry to Miyajima Island. Once there, marvel at one of the most scenic sites in Japan, the Itsukushima Shrine. Stroll on the island, known as the historic site of Shinto, literally translated as "the way of the Gods", taking in the peaceful scenery. End your day by heading back to Osaka or Kyoto by bullet train.

Osaka: teamLab Botanical Garden Entry Ticket

5. Osaka: teamLab Botanical Garden Entry Ticket

Visit the newly reopened Nagai Botanical Garden, which is run by the art collective teamLab as a hybrid garden and art space. Wander through the grounds home to roughly 1,200 species of plants, then enjoy the interactive art installations which come alive at night. Stroll through the botanical gardens, with its 240,000 square meters of grounds and wide array of plant species to admire. Stop by the central pond and relax in the serene natural beauty of the gardens. As night draws in, stay to discover teamLab’s unique art project which explores how nature can become art. The concept of the project is that non-material digital technology like light displays can turn nature into art without harming it.  Watch incredible light spectacles which actively interact with the surrounding nature, animals, and visitors, and become part of the artwork yourself as you experience it. 

From Osaka: Amanohashidate and Ine Bay Day Trip with Lunch

6. From Osaka: Amanohashidate and Ine Bay Day Trip with Lunch

Experience the beauty of "Kyoto by the Sea" on a scenic bus tour from Osaka. Feel the beauty of Amanohashidate and Ine Funaya, a traditional fisherman's village. Enjoy the tranquility of Ine Bay and Tangohanto Island on a 25-minute ferry ride. Feel the pleasure of feeding the seagulls from the second deck and enjoy the breathtaking view of Aoshima, where gods are said to dwell. En route, stop at Kasamatsu Park, where the breathtaking view of the "Shoryukan" or "Rising Dragon" awaits you. Discover the magic of Mata Nozoki Post, where you can see Amanohashidate look like a rising dragon from between your legs. Enjoy the unique wonders of Kyoto by the Sea for a truly unforgettable experience.

From Osaka: Kyoto Top Highlights Day Trip

7. From Osaka: Kyoto Top Highlights Day Trip

Visit some of Kyoto's most famous cultural sites on this day-long bus tour from Osaka. Hop aboard a comfortable coach and drive to Japan's ancient capital to see the brilliant torii gates of the Fushimi Inari Shrine, the UNESCO-listed Kiyomizu-dera temple, and the golden pavilion of Kinkaku-ji. Kyoto is filled with ancient historic sites dating back to the 6th century. Get dropped off first at the Fushimi Inari Shrine, a Shinto shrine famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates. Spend time wandering the brilliant paths before heading to your next destination. Arrive at Kiyomizu-dera, one of the most iconic temples in Japan. Take ample time to wander through the temple. Walk across the impressive wooden stage, which juts out from the hillside and was constructed without the use of a single nail. Next, stop at Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion due to the fact that it's covered in gold leaf. Wander through the immaculate gardens surrounding the temple, admiring the original Japanese designs that have been preserved since Ashikaga's time. Finish the day in Arashiyama, which has been a popular nature-viewing destination since the Heian Period. Take a stroll through the cool Sagano Bamboo Forest and listen to the distinct rustle of bamboo leaves as you walk. In the late afternoon, hop on the bus back to Osaka.

From Osaka/Kyoto: Private Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Pickup

8. From Osaka/Kyoto: Private Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Pickup

See the iconic landmarks in Nara and Kyoto in one day on a private trip with hotel pickup and drop-off from Osaka, Kyoto, or Kobe. Encounter deers at Nara Park, see a grand Buddha statue at Todaiji, visit the torri gates of Fushimi-Inari Shrine, stroll through the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, and more. Meet your driver at your hotel and head to Nara Park, home to thousands of freely roaming deers. Buy some crackers to feed the deer, or grab a snack from one of the many tea houses. Walk through Nara Park and reach the Todaiji Temple or the “Great Eastern Temple”. Discover a priceless trove of history and culture at Todaiji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. See one of Japan's most famous and historically significant Buddhist temple complexes. Visit the Daibutsuden (Big Buddha Hall) and see the majestic 15-meter-tall large bronze statue of Buddha. Next, walk through a sea of vermillion-red torri gates of the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine in Kyoto. Next up is Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion), a Zen temple in northern Kyoto. See 3 floors, each with its own different style of architecture. Admire the top 2 floors completely covered in gold leaf. Finally, visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest together with the Arashiyama Kimono Forest. Choose to ride the Sagano Romantic Train, known during spring for scenic views of cherry blossoms and in fall for the brilliant colors of maple leaves. Cross the Togetsukyo wood bridge across the Katsura River.

Osaka: Kyoto,Nara Guided Day Tour get to Kyoto's spirit

9. Osaka: Kyoto,Nara Guided Day Tour get to Kyoto's spirit

Start your beautiful journey. Pick up time and location 8:30 Nihonbashi Exit 2 9:50 Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit ▼10:00 Kyoto Recommended itinerary 1: Kiyomizu-dera Temple(Ticket fee excluded)- Nineizaka & Sanneizaka - Ishibei-koji Alley -Hanamikoji Street- Yasaka Shrine ,Tourists can choose some scenic spots according to their own preferences and physical conditions. 2: Kimono experience. Tourists who are interested can change into kimono, stroll on the ancient streets, visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Take a picture with the beautiful moment.(You can choose any kimono shops including Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Fushimi Inari Shrine. It is recommended that you can borrow from Kiyomizu-dera Temple and return to Fushimi Inari Shrine.Price excluded.) 【Kiyomizu-dera Temple】UNESCO World Heritage site & Popular tourist attraction in Kyoto. 【Nineizaka & Sanneizaka】【Ishibei-koji Alley】【Hanamikoji Street】【Yasaka Shrine】 ▼13:30 Kyoto 【Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine 】(about 70 minutes, free time) Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine is famous for its " Senbon Torii ". It attracts countless tourists from Japan and abroad every year and ranked Top1 in the survey of the world's largest travel website for three consecutive years as "the most popular tourist attraction for foreigner in Japan". Let's pray for our dear family and ourselves here. In addition, the Ema of Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine is also unique with a shape of a white fox which can be doodled into various god expressions. ▼16:00 Nara park(about 1.5 hours, free time) Nara Park is an urban park located at the foot of Mt. Wakakusa in Nara City where the famous places of interest such as Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine are located here. It is a must-see when visiting Nara. Wakakusa which located near the park is a wonderful place to overlook the scenery of Nara, and traditional events such as "Wakakusa Burning Mount." are held here every January. A leisurely stroll is the best way to visit the park. There is large herd of deer. Feeding the cute deer is also the biggest viewing point for tourists.The deer here are also very smart. If they see deer senbei in the hands of tourists, they will take the initiative to come, so be careful of the flocks of deer which may knock you down. ▼ Itinerary Recommended. 【Todaiji Temple】(Price excluded)Also known as Suzumushi Temple, it was built in 752 by Emperor Shengmu in order to enshrine the Great Buddha and serve as the head temple of Japanese temples. It is home mountain of the Huayan Sect. (Admission fee for the main hall of Todaiji Temple: Adults,JP¥600,Children,JP¥300;Admission fee for the main hall+ Museum: Adults,JP¥1000, Children,JP¥400 ) ▼ 17:30 Start to return to Osaka The drop-off address is Nihonbashi Exit 2 ★★★Kindly understand that the above itinerary schedule may be adjusted according to weather, road conditions and other reasons.

From Osaka: Guided Day Trip to Kyoto and Nara

10. From Osaka: Guided Day Trip to Kyoto and Nara

Leave Osaka in the morning aboard a bus, heading inland toward Kyoto. Before arriving in the city itself, stop in the beautiful district of Arashiyama, which has been a popular nature-viewing destination since the Heian Period. Take a stroll through the cool Sagano Bamboo Forest and listen to the distinct rustle of bamboo leaves as you walk. Later, drive through Kyoto proper and arrive at Kinkaku-ji, or the Golden Pavilion. Admire postcard-perfect views of the illustrious temple reflected in the mirror-like pond it overlooks, and then wander through the sprawling garden that retains its original design from the 14th century. After Kinkaku-ji, board your bus again and head south to Nara. Take a short walk through Nara Park, famous for the 1,200 or so wild deer that live freely within the park. Within Nara Park you will find the Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Following your time in the historic temple, hop aboard your bus again and make the trip back to Osaka-Namba OCAT.

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What people are saying about Osaka

Overall rating

4.5 / 5

based on 269 reviews

I enjoy learning about history and seeing places of historical significance in-person. I thought the tour was very-well organized and I was able to learn more about the Japanese culture.

Great experience to. Explore every things new in city tour of Osaka had a dream city tour with my guide & cover almost each & every sport in day tour from 9 am till 5.30 pm evening .

Amazing and it was my memoriable trip and day in Japan. Thank you Mike (our tour guide) for making my day wonderful.

Amazing experience. 100% recommended. Not as immersive as Team Labs in Tokyo but wonderful in it's own right.

Very organized. Maximizing our time to see wonderful sites of Kyoto.