1-day tour to Kyoto, Nara and Uji | Nara Park, Byodoin Temple, Fushimi Inari and Tōdai-ji Day Tours

Must Do Experiences

• Walk through the mesmerizing tunnel of thousands of vermilion torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha.

• Bow to the friendly, free-roaming sika deer and explore the vast grounds of Nara Park.

• Stand in awe before the colossal bronze Great Buddha statue housed within the massive wooden structure of Tōdai-ji.

• Admire the stunning Phoenix Hall at Byodoin Temple in Uji, famously depicted on the Japanese 10-yen coin.

Hidden Gems

• Look closely at the wooden pillars of Tōdai-ji Nandaimon Gate to spot the intricate, hidden carvings left by ancient master carpenters.

• Visit the quieter upper trails of Fushimi Inari past the Yotsutsuji intersection for serene views of Kyoto without the heavy crowds.

• Discover the traditional matcha tea houses tucked away in the streets of Uji, the historic heartland of Japan's finest green tea production.

What Makes it Special

• Experience a truly multicultural journey with bilingual tour guides catering to both Chinese and English-speaking travellers on the same comfortable coach.

• Maximize your time by visiting three distinct, historically rich cities in a single day without the stress of navigating complex public transit.

• Enjoy a hassle-free experience with all transportation logistics handled, allowing you to focus entirely on the ancient shrines, roaming deer, and scenic landscapes.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Early morning departures are ideal to beat the midday crowds at Fushimi Inari and secure the best photos of the empty torii gates. Spring offers breathtaking cherry blossoms in Nara Park, while autumn transforms the temple grounds of Kyoto and Uji with vibrant red and gold foliage.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the iconic reflection of the Phoenix Hall in the Aji-ike Pond at Byodoin Temple during the soft morning light for a perfectly symmetrical shot.

• Hike slightly further up the Fushimi Inari trails past the main crowds to photograph the vermilion gates framed by lush green forest canopy.

• Get down to eye level when photographing the bowing deer in Nara Park to create more intimate and engaging wildlife portraits.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When visiting shrines and temples, it is customary to bow slightly before passing through torii gates and to cleanse your hands at the chozuya water pavilions. Please remember that the deer in Nara are wild animals; treat them gently, do not tease them, and refrain from petting them aggressively. Tipping is not practiced in Japan, so a simple bow and a polite thank you to your guide is the best way to show appreciation.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Experience the magical evening illuminations at Byodoin Temple and Fushimi Inari during special seasonal light-up events in spring and autumn.

• Visit during the Nara Tokae Lantern Festival in August, where thousands of candles light up the pathways of Nara Park.

• Enjoy the vibrant autumn foliage season from mid-November to early December, when the maple trees surrounding Uji and Kyoto temples turn brilliant shades of crimson.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Keep a firm grip on your belongings, paper maps, and plastic bags when near the deer in Nara Park, as they are known to snatch and eat paper items.

• Stay on the marked paved paths at Fushimi Inari to avoid slipping on steep, uneven terrain and to respect the sacred forest boundaries.

• Ensure you stay hydrated and use sun protection during the summer months, as the open areas of Nara Park and the uphill walks in Kyoto can become quite hot.