Explore western Japan with this day trip out of Kyoto or Osaka to Kyoto and Nara. Aboard a bus, explore the serene nature of Arashiyama, stroll the gardens of Kyoto's UNESCO-listed Kinkaku-ji, and marvel at the enormous Buddha statue in Todai-ji temple in Nara.

Leave Osaka in the morning aboard a bus, heading inland toward Kyoto or ide a train accompanied by tour guide from JR Kyoto Station to 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 (Osaka departure only). Kyoto departure tourists will head back to Kyoto station by Kintetsu train.

**Please note that Kinkakuji temple tour will be diverted to Ryoanji temple for departure date between 1 November 2020 - 31 December 2020 due to construction.