Osaka and Kyoto Tour Katsuo-ji, Otagi Nenbutsu-ji and Arashiyama

4.7 (12 reviews) Osaka, Japan
Duration10h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesChinese, Japanese, English
Group sizeUp to 45 travelers

Overview

Explore the spiritual and cultural wonders of Japan on this temple tour from Osaka to Kyoto. Begin at Katsuo-ji Temple, a place revered for granting victory and good fortune. Spend two hours absorbing the tranquil atmosphere while collecting stamps and making wishes with Daruma dolls. Continue to Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple, famous for its 1,200 whimsical stone Rakan statues. If this temple is closed, visit the serene Jojakko-ji Temple instead. Enjoy free time in Arashiyama to explore its charming streets and iconic bamboo grove before heading back to Osaka.

- Visit Katsuo-ji Temple and learn to make a Daruma wish
- Discover the unique Rakan statues at Otagi Nenbutsu-ji
- Explore various attractions in Arashiyama including the Bamboo Grove
- Optional drop-off in Kyoto after the tour

What's included

  • Expressway tolls,Vehicle fuel cost,parking fees
  • Round-trip transportation by air-conditioned bus
  • Multilingual tour guide
  • Professional driver
  • personal expenses
  • Lunch
  • Admission fee for Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple / Katsuo-ji Temple(USD6)

What to expect

  1. Katsuo-ji Temple
    2h · Admission ticket not included
    Begin your journey in Osaka and head to Katsuo-ji Temple(Ticket self-paid around 3USD), a sacred site known for granting victory, success, and good fortune. Spend two hours exploring the temple grounds, collecting stamps, taking photos, and making wishes with Daruma dolls.

    Admire the Sanmon Gate and Purification Bridge, the Main Hall, and the Benzaiten & Tahoto Pagoda. Learn how to make a Daruma wish and take on the Katsuo-ji Stamp Postcard Challenge.

    ※ How to Make a Daruma Wish at Katsuo-ji
    Choose a Daruma from the temple’s Juyosho (Amulet Office)
    Write your goal for the year on its back
    Light incense and let the smoke bless the Daruma
    Draw the right eye to seal your wish
    Place it somewhere visible at home; remind yourself daily

    When your wish comes true, return to Katsuo-ji, draw the left eye, and place it at the Offering Hall to give thanks
  2. Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple
    50m · Admission ticket not included
    Next, travel to Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple in Kyoto(Ticket self-paid around 3USD), hidden in the forested hills of Sagano. Discover 1,200 whimsical stone Rakan statues, each with unique expressions, and enjoy the temple's playful yet spiritual atmosphere.

    If Otagi Nenbutsu-ji is closed, visit Jojakko-ji Temple instead, located at the foot of Mt. Ogura in Arashiyama. Admire its stunning autumn foliage, serene mossy stairways, and seasonal beauty.
  3. Arashiyama
    3h
    After visiting the temple, enjoy free time in Arashiyama. Choose from a suggested walking route, including Saga-Toriimoto Old Town, Mikami Shrine, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji Temple, and Togetsukyo Bridge.

    Finally, return to Osaka, with an optional drop-off in Kyoto.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Pick-up time and location:
8:00am Nipponbashi Station Exit 2 (Namba Shinsaibashi area).
Address:1-chōme-3-6 Nipponbashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0073.
The tour guide will hold a yellow flag with the '' Gogoday'' logo at the meeting point.

End point

Pick-up time and location:
8:00am Nipponbashi Station Exit 2 (Namba Shinsaibashi area).
Address:1-chōme-3-6 Nipponbashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0073.
The tour guide will hold a yellow flag with the '' Gogoday'' logo at the meeting point.

Additional information

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • The departure time from the first meeting point is 8:00 AM, and the drop-off time is around 18:00 PM, making the total duration of the trip approximately 10 hours
  • Please arrive 15 minutes before departure. The tour will leave on time.
  • This is a shared tour, you may travel with guests speaking other languages.
  • We will email you the guide, driver, and meeting point details the night before your trip.
  • Please note: Weather, traffic, or holiday crowds may cause delays, resulting in changes, shortening, or cancellation of certain attractions. We recommend not arranging other activities or transport immediately after the tour.
  • It’s a good idea to carry cash, since not all local stores accept cards.
  • With fewer than 13 participants, the guide will also serve as the driver and provide only basic commentary.
  • The tour runs with a minimum of 4 people. If not enough people join, we’ll let you know at least a day in advance and offer to cancel or change the date.

Cancellation policy

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

Reviews

4.7 (12)
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