Super Express Nara & Kyoto Private 1-Day Tour from Tokyo

The tour guide will pick you up from most hotels in central Tokyo. If your hotel isn’t on the designated list, just let us know — we might still be able to arrange a pick-up for you! Once you've been picked up, we’ll hop on a subway or local train to Tokyo Station. From there, get ready for an exciting ride on Japan’s world-famous high-speed train — the Shinkansen, also known as the Bullet Train! The distance between Tokyo and Kyoto is approximately 514 km (320 miles), but the super express train covers it in just 2 hours and 10 minutes! If the weather’s clear, keep an eye out — you might be treated to a breathtaking view of Mt. Fuji from your window. It’s a truly unforgettable way to travel!

After a comfortable 2-hour ride on the Bullet Train, we’ll arrive at Kyoto Station. From there, we’ll transfer to a local limited express train bound for Nara — our first destination! Nara was once the capital of Japan back in the 8th century and is rich in history and culture. Sit back, relax, and enjoy another short but scenic ride on one of Japan’s amazing trains!

From the station, we’ll enjoy a pleasant walk to Nara’s iconic attraction — Nara Park, where over 1,000 friendly deer roam freely and peacefully coexist with the locals.

Tōdai-ji Temple is one of Japan’s most famous and impressive Buddhist temples. It’s best known for housing one of the largest wooden structures in the world, which shelters the awe-inspiring Great Buddha — a massive bronze statue that truly takes your breath away. And don’t worry — you won’t miss a thing! This tour is led by a certified English-speaking guide with deep knowledge of Japanese culture, history, and much more. Your guide will share fascinating stories and insights about the temple, the Great Buddha, and of course, the friendly deer of Nara.

Nara was Japan’s ancient capital from AD 710 to AD 794, before the capital moved to Kyoto. The city has a truly unique and historic atmosphere that you can feel as you walk through its streets. There are also plenty of restaurants offering a wide variety of delicious options for lunch. (Lunch is optional.)

After enjoying lunch, we’ll hop back on a local limited express train to Kyoto Station. The train features large panoramic windows, offering beautiful views of the passing scenery during the short and relaxing ride to Kyoto.

Upon arriving in Kyoto, we’ll transfer to the JR Line and take a short 10-minute ride to Fushimi Station. From there, we’ll visit the famous Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine — the most visited Shinto shrine in all of Japan. It’s especially renowned for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates that form a magical pathway through the forested hillside.

To return to Tokyo, we’ll board the Nozomi Super Express, Japan’s fastest Shinkansen. The journey back to Tokyo Station takes about 2 hours and 10 minutes. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the final leg of our adventure on this world-class train!

After arriving at Tokyo Station, we’ll escort you back to your hotel. You can expect to return around 7:00 PM.