Excursion The spirit of japan: nara & kyoto tour at Osaka

Discover the essence of Japanese culture and history through this captivating tour of Nara and Kyoto's most revered sites on this full-day cultural exploration tour. It offers a perfect balance of Nara's ancient grandeur and Kyoto's refined beauty, providing a comprehensive insight into Japan's spiritual and cultural heritage. From the largest bronze Buddha to the most enigmatic rock garden, every stop on this journey promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper understanding of Japanese history and aesthetics.

Nara, Todaiji Temple, Great Buddha Hall

Disembark the ship and board your motorized coach for an approximately one hour drive to Nara, where your journey begins at the awe-inspiring Todaiji Temple. Founded in 752 AD and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Todaiji is one of Japan’s most historically significant temples. Its vast Daibutsuden, or Great Buddha Hall, is the largest wooden structure in the world and houses an immense bronze statue of Buddha Vairocana rising 15 meters tall. As you explore the temple grounds, enjoy encounters with the friendly deer that wander freely here, long regarded as sacred messengers of the gods.

Local Lunch

A short transfer then brings you to a local restaurant for a traditional Japanese lunch, where the fresh flavors of the region provide both nourishment and a glimpse into Kyoto’s celebrated culinary heritage.

Kyoto, Golden Pavillion

Following lunch, relax on an approximately one hour and fifteen-minute drive to Kyoto, where the shimmering Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) awaits. This exquisite three-story temple, covered entirely in gold leaf, was originally built in 1397 as the retirement villa of Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu before becoming a Zen temple. Reflected in the still waters of its surrounding pond, the Golden Pavilion is one of Kyoto’s most iconic and unforgettable sights.

Iconic Zen Rock Garden, Ryoanji Temple

Your final stop is Ryoanji Temple, home to Japan’s most famous Zen rock garden. With its 15 carefully placed stones set upon a sea of white gravel, this minimalist masterpiece has inspired contemplation and debate for centuries. The wider temple grounds, featuring a scenic pond and lush seasonal gardens, invite quiet reflection before your return journey. At the end of your visit, re-board your coach for the approximately one hour and forty-minute transfer back to the port, where your ship awaits your return and the day’s memories linger.

Points of interests

points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Todaiji Temple, Great Buddha, Golden Pavilion, Ryoanji Temple and its Japanese Zen Garden

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 2.5 miles (about four kilometres), at times over uneven, cobblestone, and natural surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, 20 steps at the Todaiji Temple. This tour is not suitable for guests prone to motion sickness, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, a sweater or light jacket, bottled water, and Japanese Yen or credit cards for purchases from the ship. Although credit cards are mostly accepted, Japanese Yen is required for any purchases; guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior to the cruise. Proper attire is required to enter temples and shrines; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. Guests must be at least 12 years old to participate on this tour; minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 18 years old. Guests must be at least 20 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. Infrastructure in Osaka may be basic, and local conditions may be challenging; coaches, guides, hotels, restaurants, equipment, and services are the best-available in the area, but may not be up to the standards of those found on other ports. Therefore, we urge flexibility and understanding as we visit unique, less-touristic destinations. The cost of providing a tour programme in this area is proportionately more expensive than in neighbouring regions, as vehicles and guides are brought in from the whole region. This may be reflected in the prices of the tours, and we thank you for your understanding. Additional beverages are available at the restaurant at each guest’s own expense. . The driving time between the pier and sites visited is approximately 60 minutes-70 minutes in each direction. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. The tour sequence may vary.