Kyoto & Osaka: A Journey Through Ancient Beauty

Edbert Junus

5 Jan 2024

Embark on an enchanting 8-day adventure through the cultural wonders of Kyoto and the majestic Osaka Castle. Immerse yourself in the serene temples of Kyoto, visit bustling markets, and witness the grandeur of Osaka's iconic landmarks. Discover the essence of Japan's rich history and vibrant present in this unforgettable journey.

Trip to Kyoto

Tours & Activities

Viator Tours

Day 1Temples, Shrines, and Culinary Delights

$32

$ 19

This 15th-century Zen temple features picturesque gardens & a sand mound shaped like Mount Fuji.

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

•

$31

12 - 15 min

Directions

This Shinto shrine was erected in 656 A.D. & is home to one of the most famous festivals in Japan.

10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

•

Free

16 - 20 min

Directions

400-year-old iconic market studded with stalls offering all manner of Japanese edibles.

12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

•

Free

Day 2Majestic Views and Imperial Grandeur

$63

$ 10

Iconic Buddhist temple on Mount Otowa known for the scenic views afforded from its sizable veranda.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

$63

24 - 29 min

Directions

Palace complex & former Imperial family residence reconstructed in 1855, with gardens & gates.

10:30 AM - 12:30 PM

•

Free

Day 3Golden Pavilions and Sacred Temples

$94

$ 19

Historic, tranquil temple with a gold-leaf facade set amid landscaped gardens & a reflecting pond.

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

•

$31

8 - 10 min

Directions

Shrine with 10th-century origins featuring annual festivals to mark natural & historical events.

10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

•

$31

23 - 28 min

Directions

Historic Buddhist temple with a 5-story wooden pagoda & sculptures of deities from the 8th century.

12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

•

$31

Day 4Castles and Tranquil Gardens

$82

$ 10

Built in 1603, this cypress-wood castle with extensive gardens was a home for the shogun Ieyasu.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

$50

47 - 57 min

Directions

Tours are offered of this iconic temple with a scenic pond & garden, plus a building with artifacts.

10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

•

$31

Budget breakdown: $1029 In total

Activities & Food:$944

Transport:$85

Trip to Ōsaka-jō

Tours & Activities

Viator Tours

Day 1Temples, Shrines, and Culinary Delights

$175

$ 8

Shinto shrine with a peaceful garden, plus structures rebuilt repeatedly since the 3rd century.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

Free

31 - 38 min

Directions

3-tiered observation areas on the 58th–60th floors, with an open-air atrium, enclosed glass & cafe.

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

•

$94

12 - 17 min

Directions

Restored Buddhist temple first built in 593 with a 5-story pagoda, statues & ponds with turtles.

12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

•

$31

12 - 17 min

Directions

Famous for its neon lights, this landmark features an observation deck open to the public.

2:30 PM - 4:00 PM

•

$50

Day 2Majestic Views and Imperial Grandeur

$188

Osaka's tallest building features an observation deck, a department store, an art museum & a hotel.

8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

•

$125

8 - 12 min

Directions

Mainstay in Tennōji Park housing 200-plus species in varied habitats, from savanna to rainforest.

11:30 AM - 2:30 PM

•

$63

Day 3Golden Pavilions and Sacred Temples

$250

$ 15

Contemporary indoor/outdoor observation deck with panoramic city views, an eatery, cafe & gift shop.

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

•

$94

22 - 27 min

Directions

Lively entertainment district known for its soaring illuminated billboards, restaurants & theaters.

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

•

Free

10 - 15 min

Directions

Spacious market with vendors selling street food, fresh produce & shellfish, plus souvenirs.

12:30 PM - 2:00 PM

•

Free

25 - 30 min

Directions

One of the world's biggest aquariums, with exhibits ranging from Arctic to tropical marine life.

2:30 PM - 5:30 PM

•

$156

Day 4Castles and Tranquil Gardens

$63

$ 8

Bustling shopping district featuring a wide range of high-end tax-free shops with airport delivery.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

Free

17 - 21 min

Directions

Revered castle dating to 1597 & since rebuilt, featuring gardens & a museum with varied exhibits.

10:30 AM - 12:30 PM

•

$63

Budget breakdown: $1029 In total

Activities & Food:$944

Transport:$85