About this experience
Gain insight into Japan's history as you explore World Heritage Sites in Kyoto and Nara. Begin at Nijo Castle, built for the Tokugawa Shogun, then visit the Kinkakuji Temple, once the villa of General Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, now famous for its gold-leaf exterior. Continue to Nara to see the bronze Great Buddha statue at the Todai-ji Temple, and conclude your trip at the Kasuga Taisha Shrine.
Why you'll love it
What's included
What's included
Not included
What to expect
Meeting point โ Kyoto Station
8:30 AM startMake your own way to the Sunrise Tours Desk at Avanti, across from Kyoto Station's Hachijo Exit, for an 8:30 AM departure.
Nijo Castle
Explore the former Kyoto residence of the Tokugawa Shogun, paying close attention to the extraordinary carved transoms and painted panels inside Ninomaru Palace.
Kinkakuji Temple
Visit the Temple of the Golden Pavilion, its upper two storeys clad in gold leaf and perfectly reflected in the surrounding pond.
Kyoto Imperial Palace
Walk the grounds of the palace that served as the Emperor's official residence for over a millennium, until the capital moved to Tokyo in 1869.
Travel to Nara
Journey south to Japan's first permanent capital, a city where wild deer roam freely through the park surrounding its great temples.
Kasuga Taisha Shrine
Stroll the lantern-lined paths of one of Japan's most celebrated Shinto shrines, founded in 768 AD and still an active place of worship.
Todai-ji Temple โ the Great Buddha
Return to Kyoto by 6:30 PMEnter the world's largest wooden building to see the monumental bronze Daibutsu, cast in the 8th century and standing nearly 15 metres high.
Meeting point
Avanti JTB Sunrise Tours Desk, Higashikujล Nishisannลchล 31, Minami Ward, Kyoto โ across from Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit
Head to the Hachijo (south) Exit of Kyoto Station and cross to the Avanti shopping building. The Sunrise Tours Desk is located inside. Arrive before 8:30 AM โ the tour departs promptly.
Open in Google MapsWhat to bring
- Your booking confirmation (digital or printed)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Cash for personal purchases and any optional extras
Know before you go
Good to know
Sunrise Tours (JTB)
Sunrise Tours, operated by JTB โ one of Japan's largest and most established travel companies โ runs guided tours across Japan with a focus on cultural heritage and seamless logistics.
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Frequently asked questions
Where exactly do I meet the group?
The meeting point is the Sunrise Tours Desk inside the Avanti building, directly across from Kyoto Station's Hachijo (south) Exit. Look for the JTB signage. The tour starts at 8:30 AM, so aim to arrive a few minutes early.
Is lunch included?
Lunch is not included in the standard ticket. If you'd like a meal included, select the 'Kyoto and Nara Tour with Lunch' option when booking.
What happens if Nijo Castle is closed on my visit day?
Nijo Castle closes on Tuesdays in January, July, August, and December. On those days, the tour visits Ryoan-Ji Temple instead. Similarly, if the Kyoto Imperial Palace is closed, Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is substituted. Your day remains full either way.
Can children join the tour, and is there a charge?
Children under 6 travel free of charge, though no seat will be reserved for them. Each paying adult may bring one free child โ additional children would need their own ticket.
How long is the tour?
The tour runs from 8:30 AM to approximately 6:30 PM โ around 10 hours in total, covering sites in both Kyoto and Nara.
Is the tour conducted in English?
The supplier data does not specify languages. We recommend contacting us before booking if you require a guide in a specific language.