• Todai-ji Temple - Todai-ji Temple is renowned as the largest historical wooden structure globally, housing the largest Buddha statue. It holds significant importance as a Buddhist temple to the Japanese for over 1400 years. Visitors will receive comprehensive explanations about its rich history and the symbolism of each statue, offering deep insights into Buddhism and Japanese culture. This tour allows you to experience the essence of Buddhism visually and audibly.
• Osaka Castle - For over 400 years, Osaka Castle has been an iconic symbol of Osaka. It reveals the truth about the samurais, the story of its founder Shogun, and the history behind one of Japan’s three most beautiful castles. The surrounding park is cherished by locals, especially during cherry blossom season. Remember to bring your camera! *Note: The castle tower is not included in the tour as it now functions as a museum.
• Nigatsu-do Temple - A short 5-10 minute walk from the main temple, accompanied by charming deer, leads to an ancient wooden temple atop a hill. Named “February” after the significant “Omizutori” ceremony in the Chinese lunar February, it offers a place to relax while enjoying the stunning view of Nara and learning about the 1270-year-old ceremony.
• Nara Park - A sanctuary for wild deer, Nara Park will amaze you with its abundance of deer freely roaming in nature, temples, and roads, unafraid of humans. This park has been a national treasure for 1400 years, designated by the emperor. Despite its proximity to downtown Nara, it retains a primeval atmosphere, transporting visitors to ancient times. Guides provide extensive information about Japanese deer and safety tips for interacting with these sacred animals.
• Dotombori District - The Dotonbori/Shinsaibashi area is Osaka’s most famous, iconic, and bustling district, known for the “running man” sign, vibrant neon lights along the riverside, and Japan’s longest shopping street. This is where Osaka’s energy truly shines.
• America Mura - Known as the “American Village,” this area is not for Americans but for Osaka’s youth. It combines the vibes of Tokyo’s “Shibuya” and “Harajuku,” creating a cooler atmosphere. It’s the hub for great nightclubs and live music events.
• Nipponbashi Denden Town - Often referred to as Osaka’s “Akihabara,” this area is a hub for electronics and anime, offering a more concentrated experience than Akihabara.
• Todai-ji Shoro (Bell Tower) - Home to one of Japan’s top three greatest bells, this 1300-year-old bronze bell, located in Nara Park, is the loudest in Japan. A monk rings it every evening at 8 pm, but it never hits the target as its sound resonates for three days!
• Tobita Shinchi - Known as Osaka’s “red-light district,” this area will surprise you with its unique atmosphere, featuring women in school-uniform costumes waving from traditional Japanese houses. The guide will provide a detailed history of the area. NO PHOTOGRAPHS are allowed to avoid conflict with the Yakuzas who protect this area.
• Shinsaibashisuji Kita Shotengai - This bustling shopping arcade is Japan’s most crowded, often compared to Shibuya Crossing for its “river of people.”
• Tsutenkaku Hondori Shopping Street - This street epitomizes Osaka with its unique shops and friendly (often tipsy) locals. It’s the perfect place to sample famous Osaka street foods like Takoyaki (Octopus balls) while strolling through the lively street adorned with vibrant billboards.

• Air-Conditioned Nissan Van (2-6 guests) / Mini Convertible (1 guest)
• Fuel & Highway Fees
• Full English Guide
• Parking fees
• Dinner time & Local Restaurant Guide
• Flexible Pickup & Dropping-off at anywhere in Kyoto, Osaka or Nara *start & end can be different

• Any additional cost by your customization
• Fee for dinner
• Lunch time
• Admission fees

Have your best and most unforgettable day trip in Japan, guided by a local specialist to tour two unique cities, ancient Nara and urban Osaka, efficiently in a comfortable air-conditioned car!

You will first visit Nara, “Deer” Park, the sanctuary of super-friendly wild Japanese deer, and see the most ancient, significant and biggest temple in Japan, Todaiji Temple, with the biggest Buddha Statue in Japan.

After visiting ancient Nara, you will move to the most urban area of Osaka and take a cruise by car to see the most iconic landmarks of Osaka, including Osaka Castle and Dotonbori, walk some unique streets of Osaka and eat the best Osaka local foods!

This tour includes an optional “dark tour” into a ghetto area of Osaka, the “Airin Area” and one of the most historical red-light districts in the world, Tobita-Shinchi. (omittable)

Your friendly and flexible local guide will explain everything about those two cities in a comfortable car!

Book Now for a Perfect Day!

• ONLY If it’s maximum 6 pax, the middle seat will be used. Please check the size of our van (Nissan Serena) and your group. It can be a little tight if it’s all big adults. No bigger car available
• The itinerary gets updated flexibly by the seasons and conditions. Not all the small sites listed are guaranteed to cover
• Vegetarian or other food restriction request for the dinner guide is available, but if you are sensitive (eg. strict vegan/halal) or very picky, please have it by yourself after the tour. We can finish early and drop you off at any restaurants as well

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.