Overview
This two-day tour takes you to the famous tourist spots of the two cities representing Western Japan. In Kyoto, you will visit a temple and a castle built by shoguns from different eras, a summer resort area loved by nobles, and a geisha district. In Osaka, you will visit the castle, which was once built by an all-time samurai hero, and the entertainment district and shopping area, which are being frequented by common people. Through this tour, you can experience the culture and history different from Tokyo, and enjoy local specialties of these areas for lunch.
- Guided visits to three top Kyoto attractions
- Early-morning departure to avoid the crowds
- Stunning views of Kinkaku-ji temple in the morning light
- Finishes before midday so your afternoon is free
Meeting and Pickup
JR Kyoto Station
What To Expect
【Day1】 Kyoto One Day Tour
Kinkakuji Temple
This famous Zen temple built by the shogun is an icon of Samurai culture. The pagoda covered by gold leaf is so stunning and its reflection on the pond perfectly harmonizes with surroundings.This temple is designated as UNESCO World Heritage and is a must-see spot when you come to Kyoto.
Bamboo Forest Street
You walk through the renowned bamboo forest. Let’s stop and close your eyes. You can hear the sound when bamboo truncks and leaves touch each other. It will heal your heart tenderly.You also enjoy the peaceful landscape once loved by nobles.
Nijo Castle
In 1603, the then shogun relocated his shogunate to Edo, present-day Tokyo. Nijo castle was built as the castle where the shogun stayed when he visited Kyoto. Inside the castle, there are more than 1,000 gorgeous pictures painted on sliding doors which give you an understanding of the powerful authority of the shogun. It was in this very castle that the last shogun declared to return the power to the Emperor in 1867, after 260 years of his family’s governance.
Gion
In Kyoto, there are five Kagai (geisha districts), and Gion is the biggest one. Geisha is an important part of traditional Japanese culture. Let’s stroll around Gion district where beautiful, old-style houses are preserved. If you are lucky enough, you may encounter a Geiko or a Maiko (apprentice) dressed in gorgeous kimono.
【Day2】Osaka One Day Tour
Osaka Museum of History
The Osaka Museum of History is located in front of Osaka Castle and is built on the site of an ancient palace. The 10th floor of this museum is a great spot to overlook Osaka Castle. Through the windows, you can command a panoramic view of the beautiful castle and get a good understanding of its huge size and the whole structure of the castle. In addition, the informative exhibits enable you to understand the origin and real history of Osaka deeply. In particular, the diorama of the ancient court and the busy merchants’ town are impressive.
Osaka Castle
Osaka Castle, built in the 17th century by the Tokugawa Shogunate, was a solid castle protected by double moats, tall stone walls, turrets, etc and originally was the home of the samurai leader of the Toyotomi family. The castle is now widely used by Osaka citizens as a park. After looking at the view from the observation deck of the main tower, you will learn about Osaka and Japan’s history centered on samurai through the exhibits on each floor. At the facilities in MIRAIZA on the castle grounds, you can also experience ninja knife throwing!
Dotombori District
Now Dotonbori is the most popular tourist attraction in Osaka. Originally, this area was loved by the locals as entertainment area with a row of theaters along the canal. Currently, restaurants with colorful billboards line both sides of the canal including, of course, shops selling takoyaki, the octopus balls that originated in Osaka, and famous ramen shops. Take a photo in front of the well-known Glico-man signboard and enjoy exploring the surroundings. If you are looking for souvenirs, Don Quiote is also nearby.
Additional Info
Traveler Photos
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