Discover Kyoto and Nara Tour

- A Secret Retreats journey -
4 days / 3 nights
from 1,050 USD /person

 

ITINERARY BOOK
 


This journey has been personally designed by Emi
is the CEO of The Junei Hotel awarded as the most beautiful hotel in Kyoto by Japan Brand Collection and 3 Pavilions by Michelin. “Our motivation is to pursue to deliver the authentic beauty of Kyoto through unique activities. We hope to deliver unforgettable and memorable stay to our guests.”

All our itineraries have generally been constructed on the basis of the rooms that have the most charm or best view, and not necessarily the first prices, nor the most expensive suites.
We can of course adjust according to your request.

Explore Japan’s rich history and culture on this Kyoto and Nara tour, a journey through two of the most historic cities. Once the imperial capital until 1869, Kyoto is nestled in southern Honshu Island and is part of the bustling Osaka-Kobe-Kyoto metropolis. The city has seen turbulent times, with a rebellion in 1864 that burned down over 28,000 homes, prompting the Emperor to relocate to Tokyo. Efforts to rebuild the city began years later, with the Lake Biwa Canal driving the economy and helping Kyoto reclaim its cultural status.

Despite enduring fires, earthquakes, wars, and WWII destruction, Kyoto remains today the Cultural Capital of Japan. It is home to more than 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines. This Kyoto and Nara private tour offers a visit to the historic Katsura Imperial Villa, an architectural treasure and UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Edo-period Sukiya design and seasonal gardens.

Located just an hour’s drive away, Nara served as Japan’s capital in the 8th century, laying the foundation of Japanese culture and tradition. The city’s many ancient landmarks are UNESCO-listed, and it’s famed for the legend of Takemikazuchi, the god who arrived on a white deer to guard the new capital. Since then, deer are believed to protect Nara and can be seen roaming freely throughout the city’s parks. This Nara Kyoto itinerary includes stops at renowned sites like Kofuku-ji Temple and Nara’s iconic deer park, creating an unforgettable experience of Japan’s heritage.

Highlights of the Kyoto and Nara Private Tour:

This Kyoto and Nara tour highlights the best of Kyoto’s historic sites, a traditional tea ceremony, and an optional extension to the historic city of Nara.
Early reservations are essential, as the number of tickets available for Katsura Villa is limited.

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Your Journey Day by Day

from 1,050 USD /person for 4 days / 3 nights
370 USD /person, extension additional 1 night and 1 day to Nara

based on 2 person sharing the same room

 

 
Day 1 : Kyoto ( - / - /D)
Check-in is available at 3 pm.
Once settled, you may choose to rest in the peaceful ambiance of the hotel or stroll through Kyoto’s picturesque streets on your own.
Dinner offers an introduction to Kyoto’s culinary heritage through “Shidashi,” a refined traditional dining experience that’s carefully curated to suit your preferences. Dietary restrictions will be confirmed prior to beginning the Kyoto and Nara tour, ensuring that each guest enjoys an authentic yet personalized taste of Kyoto cuisine.
HOTEL: The Junei (Premium Double)
Day 2 : Katsura Imperial Villa (B / - / -)
After breakfast, depart around 9 am to visit Katsura Villa. This iconic villa, located in the western part of Kyoto, served as a detached palace for the imperial family and is celebrated for its beautiful, migration-style gardens that showcase stunning scenery across the four seasons. Flowing alongside the villa is the Katsura River, providing a serene backdrop for a walk across wooden bridges that connect various gardens, evoking the feeling of traversing a series of scenic islands. These gardens and the villa’s architectural style embody the elegance of the Edo period and make it a prized site in Japan Kyoto tours.
Lunch on your own.

After returning to the hotel, you have the afternoon free to relax, indulge in a spa treatment, or explore Kyoto further at your leisure.
HOTEL: The Junei (Premium Double)
Day 3 : Uji Byodoin (B / - /-)
After a leisurely breakfast, the morning and lunch are open for you to explore at your convenience. In the afternoon, you’ll embark on an excursion to Byodoin Temple in Japan, a UNESCO-listed example of Pure Land Buddhist architecture. This temple, along with its garden, represents the Pure Land Paradise, which has influenced Buddhist architecture across Japan. The day’s adventure continues with a visit to a sake brewery established in 1909, where you’ll delve into the history of sake brewing in Japan. The visit concludes with a sake tasting session, making it a highlight of sake tours in Japan and offering a unique insight into Japanese craftsmanship and flavor.
HOTEL: The Junei (Premium Double)
Day 4 : Departure (B / - / -)
After breakfast, check-out is at 11 am. The hotel team can assist with transportation arrangements to the train station or your next destination, ensuring a seamless continuation of your journey.

Or option extension:

Day 4:
Nara (B / - / -)

For those who choose the Nara extension, a driver will pick you up after breakfast and transport you to Nara in less than an hour. Here, you’ll experience an engaging Nara Kyoto tour, where the day’s itinerary includes some of Japan’s most iconic landmarks, such as Tōdai-ji Temple. This temple’s Great Buddha Hall of Tōdai-ji Temple (Daibutsuden) is not only the world’s largest wooden structure but also houses one of Japan’s largest bronze Buddha statues. The tour will also cover the Five-story pagoda and Tōkondō at Kōfuku-ji, immersing you in Nara’s historical and spiritual legacy. After exploring these sites, you’ll have lunch on your own at one of the many authentic local restaurants in town. Afterward, return to Kyoto to conclude the day.

Hotel: The Junei (Premium Double)

Day 5:
Departure (B / - / -)

After breakfast, check-out is scheduled for 11 am. The hotel offers transportation assistance, ensuring that you depart smoothly for your next adventure.

Your Accommodation on this Asia Travel Itinerary


Discover Kyoto and Nara Tour

4 days / 3 nights
from 1,050 USD /person
370 USD /person, extension additional 1 night and 1 day to Nara

based on 2 person sharing the same room

 



The total price includes:
Accommodation on a bed & breakfast basis at The Junei Premium Double.
All transportation from the hotel for the excursions mentioned in the program (private car)
Dinner on the first night
Tea Ceremony on 3rd day

The total price does not include:
Flights to Japan and transfers to the hotel
Other meals that are not included in the program.
Drinks, personal expenses.
Options and other activities not included in the program.


This Secret Journey is designed in cooperation with Emi and The Junei Hotel.

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THIS JOURNEY

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