5-Day Japan Kansai Semi‑Independent Tour with Osaka City Hotel Stay: Osaka, Kyoto, Nara and Kobe: Kiyomizu Temple, Fushimi Inari Shrine and Arima Onsen丨1 Free Day

What you'll experience

Highlights

5 days

Day-by-day itinerary

1. 1

   Day 1 — Home - Osaka

   Today is your departure day. Please arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight.
   After arriving at Osaka Kansai Airport, proceed to the airport pickup counter where we will arrange transportation to your hotel.
   (The pickup is a shared transfer. For a private car, please contact customer service to upgrade.)
   
   Shared Airport Pickup Procedure:
   • At the airport pickup counter: Scan the QR code to check in, confirm the number of luggage pieces, and receive luggage tags. Additional luggage can be purchased on site.
   Note: Each passenger is allowed one 32-inch suitcase and one carry-on under 20 inches for free.
   • At the boarding area: Staff will guide you to the vehicle, help place luggage (driver handles loading/unloading), and scan QR code to board.
   • Transfer: Scan QR code to get off, note your transfer vehicle number, retrieve your luggage (driver handles loading/unloading), locate the correct transfer vehicle (large number on vehicle), scan QR code to board the next vehicle, and confirm final destination.
   • Arrival at hotel: Scan QR code to get off, confirm the drop-off location, retrieve your luggage, and complete the airport pickup.
    

   Meals: B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: YIYIHOUSE Shinsaibashi (Osaka Shinsaibashi YIYIHOUSE)
2. 2

   Day 2 — Osaka - Kyoto - Nara - Osaka

   ▼ Kiyomizu-dera Area (Approx. 2.5 hours, including free lunch time and independent exploration)
   Recommended Itinerary Options:
   Option 1: Kiyomizu-dera (entrance fee not included) → Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka → Ishibei-koji → Gion & Hanami-koji → Yasaka Shrine
   Guests can choose attractions based on personal interest and energy.
   Option 2: Kimono Experience
   Guests can wear a kimono and stroll through historic streets. Visit Kiyomizu-dera, take photos, and enjoy a memorable moment.
   Multiple kimono rental shops available (Kiyomizu-dera shop pick-up, Fushimi Inari shop return). (Cost not included)
   Attractions Introduction:
   【Kiyomizu-dera】A UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site and one of Kyoto's most popular attractions. Founded in 778, it is an ancient temple. Jishu Shrine, located north of the main hall, is famous for matchmaking and praying for love.
   【Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka】Sloped streets outside Kiyomizu-dera, representing traditional Kyoto architecture. The streets are lined with old-style Japanese buildings, offering souvenirs, snacks, paper fans, dolls, and chopsticks.
   【Ishibei-koji】 At the end of Ninenzaka, turn right and walk north to find this quiet cobblestone street. Traditional Japanese houses on both sides create a serene atmosphere away from the crowds.
   【Gion & Hanami-koji】Ancient geisha district. Even today, some geisha schools train in tea ceremony, flower arranging, koto, gagaku, kyogen, maiko, and bunraku. The street stretches about 1 km from north (modern) to south (traditional), with charming tea houses and wooden lattice doors.
   【Yasaka Shrine】Located in Higashiyama, Kyoto, this historic shrine is famous in the Kansai region. Visitors can draw fortune slips, write ema, and get omamori. Heart-shaped ema for love prayers are especially popular.
   Guests can enjoy a local Kyoto-style lunch while appreciating traditional architecture - perfect for photography.
   
   ▼ Fushimi Inari Taisha
   Famous for its "Senbon Torii"(thousands of red torii gates), Fushimi Inari Taisha attracts countless domestic and international visitors every year. It has been ranked the #1 most popular Japanese attraction for foreign travelers for three consecutive years in global surveys. Here, you can pray for yourself and your loved ones.
   The shrine's ema (votive plaques) are uniquely shaped like white foxes, allowing for creative doodling with fun expressions.
   
   ▼ Nara Park
   Located at the base of Wakakusa Mountain in Nara City, Nara Park houses famous historical sites like Todai-ji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine, making it a must-visit. Wakakusa Mountain offers fantastic views of Nara, and traditional events like the Wakakusa Yamayaki Festival are held here in January.
   Strolling leisurely through the park is a great way to enjoy the scenery. The park is home to friendly deer, which approach visitors for deer crackers — be careful, as groups of deer can crowd around!
   Recommended Visit: Todai-ji Temple (entrance fee not included)
   Also known as Daibutsuden, it was built in 752 by Emperor Shomu to house the Great Buddha and serve as the head temple of the Kegon sect. After two fires, the current structure was rebuilt in 1692, covering two-thirds of the original. The main hall measures 57 m wide and 50 m deep, making it one of the largest wooden buildings in the world.
   Inside is the Great Buddha statue, over 15 m tall, and the temple grounds also feature the South Gate, Nigatsu-do, and Sangatsu-do halls.
   
   ▼ Shinsaibashi & Dotonbori
   After sightseeing, the tour can end at Shinsaibashi, or guests can be sent back to their hotel/apartment.
   【Shinsaibashi】A famous shopping street in Osaka, home to large department stores, chain drugstores, long-established shops, and small boutiques. Brands like Hello Kitty and Disney have stores here. Popular with shoppers, especially for cosmetics and skincare, many stores offer Chinese-speaking staff and support UnionPay cards.
   【Dotonbori】The symbol of Osaka's food culture, bustling day and night. Known as the birthplace of the "eat until you drop" culture, Dotonbori offers street food like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and Kinryu ramen, traditional izakaya, and trendy restaurants such as Kani Doraku, which is especially popular with Chinese tourists.
    

   

   Kiyomizu-dera

   

   Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine

   

   Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka

   

   Nara Park

   

   Shinsaibashi

   

   Dotonbori

   Meals: B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: YIYIHOUSE Shinsaibashi (Osaka Shinsaibashi YIYIHOUSE)
3. 3

   Day 3 — Osaka - Kobe - Arima Onsen - Mt. Rokko - Osaka

   ▼Kobe Sanda Outlet (Approx. 4 hours, including free lunch time and independent exploration)
   Operated by the U.S. Outlets Group Chelsea, the outlet is designed in the suburban Pasadena (Los Angeles) style and features mid-to-high-end brands.
   The outlet offers around 180 stores, including fashion, accessories, sportswear, home décor, and more. Brands include Anna Sui, Folli Follie, Furla, Abahouse, Balenciaga, Bottega Veneta, Chloe, Givenchy, Gap, Issey Miyake, and other luxury labels.
   Families with children are welcome — there is a LEGO store, so kids can have fun while parents shop. Guests can exchange their passport at the information center for discount coupons. Adjacent to the outlet is Aeon Mall, offering a wide variety of dining and shopping options.
   Note: This visit does not include Kitano Ijinkan Street or Kobe Port.
   
   ▼Arima Onsen (Approx. 1.5 hours, free exploration)
   One of Japan's three oldest hot spring towns, Arima Onsen has a history spanning centuries. The town features ancient inns, local specialty shops, and historic temples, with the streets filled with the aroma of hot springs.
   Walking through Arima Onsen offers a glimpse into traditional Japanese culture and history. Steam rises from the streets, marking different types of hot springs. Visitors can enjoy local delicacies while exploring the town.
   Recommended day-use hot springs (fees not included):
   Taiko no Yu (292-2 Ikenojiri, Kita-ku, Kobe) is a large hot spring theme park (approx. 7,000 ㎡) offering three famous Arima springs: Golden Spring, Silver Spring, and Carbonated Spring, providing a complete hot spring experience.
     
   
   ▼Rokko Mountain Night View
   (If the cable car is temporarily closed due to weather or other uncontrollable factors, extra time at Arima Onsen will be added.)
   Rokko Mountain, near Kobe, is part of Setonaikai National Park and is one of the best spots to enjoy Kobe's night view, often ranked as one of Japan's top three night views.
   In winter, sunset occurs around 16:30pm–16:50pm. Even before full nightfall, visitors can enjoy a beautiful golden sunset painting across the sky.
   Rokko Cable Car (六甲ケーブル): Due to the steep mountain roads, buses can cause motion sickness. Experience the unique Rokko Cable Car (fee not included). Operating hours: 7:10am–21:10pm, No holidays.
   Rokko Observation Deck: Named in 1981 by Emperor Showa, it is located next to Rokko Cable Car's upper station and is one of the three recommended night view spots on Rokko Mountain.
   The night view of Kobe was designated as a "Million Dollar Night View" in 1953 (based on electricity costs at the time). By 2005, the night view was estimated to cost over ten million dollars per day to light, earning it the nickname "Ten Million Dollar Night View". Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from Wakayama to the Akashi Strait.
   Note: From 23 Aug to 30 Nov, the observation deck hosts Kobe Rokko MEETS ART 2025 beyond, during which a fee applies (not included).
     

   

   Arima Onsen

   

   Mount Rokko

   Meals: B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: YIYIHOUSE Shinsaibashi (Osaka Shinsaibashi YIYIHOUSE)
4. 4

   Day 4 — Free Day / Customize Your Own Trip (self-guided, no tour guide or transport included)

   Free Day - No guide or vehicle service provided.
   
   Option 1: A Complete Osaka City Experience – History, Local Life & Bustling Districts
   【Osaka Castle Park】A symbolic landmark of Osaka. In spring, you can enjoy cherry blossoms, and in winter, plum blossoms. Inside the park, head to Osaka Castle Tower, the city's iconic spot which also appeared in Detective Conan. From the top, you'll have a panoramic view of the city, and inside you can learn about the life of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The castle opens at 9:00 am. To avoid long queues, it's best to arrive early. Recommended visiting time: 2-3 hours.
   Nearby Spot: After visiting Osaka Castle Park, Conan fans may want to stop by the Osaka Police Headquarters, a uniquely designed building not far from the park.
   【Kuromon Market】From Osaka Castle Park, take the subway to Nipponbashi Station and exit at Exit 10. Known as the "Kitchen of Osaka," this lively market is the best place to try local food-fresh seafood, fruits, okonomiyaki, kushikatsu (fried skewers), and takoyaki. A perfect place for lunch while exploring. Recommended visiting time: 1-2 hours.
   【Tsutenkaku Tower & Shinsekai Market】 Another iconic landmark of Osaka, with retro-style streets full of manga-like charm. You can enjoy city views from the tower, or stay until sunset for a beautiful view of the sun hitting the tower. Opening hours: 10:00am–20:00pm (last entry 19:30pm). After the tower, stroll through the nearby Shinsekai Market, home to many small eateries and specialty shops where you can immerse yourself in Osaka's vibrant local atmosphere. Recommended visiting time: 2-3 hours.
   
   Option 2: Osaka's Magical World - Thrills, Adventures & Light Shows
   【Universal Studios Japan (USJ)】Located in Konohana-ku, Osaka, this world-famous theme park opened on March 31, 2001, and was the third Universal Studios park in the world. It features 10 themed areas, including Super Nintendo World™, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™, New York, and Hollywood, with exciting rides and spectacular shows. Tickets should be purchased in advance, especially during peak seasons. Consider getting an Express Pass to skip lines for major attractions and maximize your experience.

   

   Osaka Castle Park

   Meals: B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: YIYIHOUSE Shinsaibashi (Osaka Shinsaibashi YIYIHOUSE)
5. 5

   Day 5 — Osaka - Home

   Private airport transfer is arranged. Please meet at the designated time.
   
   Arrival at the airport is usually scheduled at least 3 hours before departure.

   Meals: B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: Excluded

What's included

Cancellation policy

Important info

Special notes

Know Before You Book:

• Tour guide information will be sent to your email from [email protected] by 21:00 pm (Japan time) the day before departure. Please be sure to check your inbox.
• For large buses (45–49 seats), the front two seats are reserved as priority seating. If there are pregnant guests or passengers prone to motion sickness, please inform us in advance and leave a note in your booking (subject to reconfirmation).
• Due to limited luggage space, only one suitcase per person is allowed on board. If you have more than one, please indicate this in the remarks section. Thank you for your cooperation.
• Different vehicles and tour guides may serve you during different parts of the tour. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.
• During the actual trip, without reducing any attractions and with guest consent, the tour guide and driver may adjust the itinerary (e.g., change the visiting order of attractions) based on weather, traffic, or other conditions to ensure a smooth journey. In case of force majeure making it impossible to follow the original plan, any resulting changes in cost will be settled accordingly—refunds for reductions and surcharges for additions. We appreciate your cooperation.
• If unforeseen circumstances prevent certain attractions from being visited, the guide may cancel or replace the attraction after consulting with guests. In such cases, refunds will be made based on the ticket price listed in the product, not the gate price. Thank you for your understanding.
• Complimentary items or activities are subject to availability based on weather, capacity limits, or other operational reasons. Guests may choose whether or not to participate.
• Due to seasonal factors, we reserve the right to adjust the apartment/hotel arrangements. Final hotel confirmation will be listed in our official "Departure Notice." Room types are subject to hotel availability and cannot be specified. Requests such as smoking/non-smoking rooms or allergy-friendly options must be noted in advance and are subject to hotel arrangements. We appreciate your understanding.
• To ensure operational efficiency, some portions of the itinerary may be combined with other guests. In cases where travelers are staying at different hotels, local staff will arrange shared transfers based on the actual situation. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
• During non-free time in the group itinerary, early departure or leaving the tour midway is not permitted. We appreciate your understanding.
• Please arrive at the designated meeting point on time as agreed with the tour guide. Late arrivals may delay the group's schedule, and if you miss the tour due to tardiness, you will bear full responsibility.
• Natural attractions such as autumn leaves, cherry blossoms, and canola flowers are subject to weather and climate conditions. If they are not in bloom or have already withered, we kindly ask for your understanding.

Know Before You Go: 
This tour follows a shared group model with services provided by the local travel agency. To facilitate the departure, the agency may transfer passengers to a different vehicle and assign a different guide or driver, but the service level and itinerary will remain the same as per the contract.

• In-tour guidelines:
  No early departure or midway detachment from the group is allowed. If you choose to leave midway, any remaining portions of the tour will be considered forfeited, and no refund will be given. You will be responsible for any accidents that occur after detaching from the group.
  During peak tourist seasons or special circumstances, the tour's departure time may be slightly adjusted (please follow the guide's instructions).
  Traffic, weather, and other special conditions may result in adjustments to the tour order, though the planned attractions will not be reduced. The guide may rearrange the order of stops with your consent.
  Meals are not included in this tour. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are at your own expense. Please note that some restaurants do not allow outside food or reservation without ordering.
• Local customs/regulations:
  Please respect local cultural customs during the tour.
• Weather:
  The tour may be adjusted due to weather or other factors. For your safety, the staff may cancel outdoor activities and make alternative arrangements.
  In case of severe weather or other force majeure factors, the park may delay or cancel certain attractions or shows without prior notice.
• Shopping:
  Some scenic spots, restaurants, and rest areas may have shops that are not affiliated with the travel agency. Please shop wisely and keep receipts. If any shopping disputes arise, you are responsible for handling them.
  The destination may have privately operated entertainment or consumer venues that lack legal business credentials. For your safety and well-being, please exercise caution when considering purchases or participation.

Travel Reminders:

• Due to the unpredictable nature of traffic conditions, weather, holidays, and crowd levels, the arrival times at each destination may vary. In accordance with Japanese law, drivers are not permitted to work for more than 10 hours per day. To ensure the safety of both the driver and all passengers, we may need to adjust the itinerary based on real-time conditions. This could include shortening the duration at certain attractions or canceling some stops altogether. We sincerely ask for your understanding and support in prioritizing safety.
• In the event of the above or other force majeure situations, we sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. However, we kindly ask for your understanding that no refunds will be issued under such circumstances. This policy is in place to ensure the safety of both the driver and travelers, and to maintain the smooth operation of the tour.
• We are committed to providing the best possible travel experience, but in some cases, flexible adjustments to the itinerary are necessary. We truly appreciate your understanding and cooperation.
• Examples of force majeure events include, but are not limited to:
  Natural disasters: Earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, floods, typhoons, etc.
  Traffic incidents: Road accidents, severe traffic congestion, etc.
  Weather conditions: Extreme weather such as heavy snow, rain, or fog may affect transportation and schedules.
  Government regulations: Emergency government measures, traffic restrictions, or regulations may lead to itinerary changes.
  Health emergencies: Sudden health issues involving guests or team members that require urgent medical care.
  Social events: Strikes, protests, or social unrest that may disrupt travel plans.
  Mechanical failures: Vehicle or transportation malfunctions causing delays.

Japan Travel Guidelines:

• Immigration Requirements: According to the Japanese Embassy, all visitors entering Japan (except permanent residents and those under 16 years old) are required to undergo fingerprint scanning of both index fingers and facial photography at immigration counters upon arrival at airports or seaports. Immigration officers may also ask about the purpose of your visit, travel plans, length of stay, and travel companions.
• Traffic Rules & General Conduct: Vehicles in Japan drive on the left side of the road, opposite to China. Please be cautious when crossing streets. Except in Osaka, escalators follow the "stand left, walk right"rule. Speed limits: 40 km/h in urban areas, 60 km/h on rural roads, and 80 km/h on highways and expressways.
• Cultural Etiquette: Please respect local customs, eating habits, taboos, and religious practices. Embrace local traditions and cultural norms to ensure a respectful and pleasant experience.
• Safety Alerts: Before and during your trip, please check the travel safety alerts issued by * China's Ministry of Foreign  Affairs http://cs.mfa.gov.cn/gyls/lsgz/lsyj/ and the * Ministry of Culture and Tourism https://www.mct.gov.cn/ggfw/cxts/. Let's stay informed and travel safely together.
• Personal Safety: For your safety, avoid displaying valuables or large amounts of cash in public. Always keep a close eye on personal belongings such as jewelry, cameras, and wallets while out and about.
• Activity Warnings: *Activities like swimming, rafting, diving, skiing, ice skating, snow play, surfing, adventure sports, hot air ballooning, and high-altitude cableways involve risks. Please assess your physical condition before participating, and follow any safety guidelines issued by local authorities or relevant agencies. *Hot springs in Japan contain various minerals and are beneficial to health, but prolonged soaking is not recommended. Those with heart disease, high blood pressure, chronic illnesses, or who are intoxicated should avoid bathing. Please follow all posted safety instructions in bathing areas.
• Lithium Battery Air Travel Reminder: To ensure flight safety, lithium batteries carried by passengers are subject to strict inspection by the Civil Aviation Authority. Please comply with relevant regulations when flying.
• Customs and Duty-Free Policy (China): According to China Customs regulations (Order Nos. 54/2010, 19/2016, 25/2016), inbound travelers are allowed to bring personal items purchased overseas with a total value not exceeding RMB 5,000.00 duty-free. Additional duty-free purchases at airport duty-free shops are allowed, provided the total (including overseas purchases) does not exceed RMB 8,000.00. *Please note that tobacco, alcohol, and other taxable items are not included in the duty-free allowance.
• Prohibited Items: As per the "List of Prohibited Items for Entry into China," items such as bird's nest, fresh fruits and vegetables, animal-based traditional medicine, genetically modified materials, etc., are strictly prohibited from being brought or mailed into the country. Travelers must comply with all laws and regulations in their destination country. Do not engage in the trade or transportation of ivory or endangered wildlife products, as doing so may result in serious legal consequences.

Pricing notes (children, single supplement)

* Prices may vary during Japanese public holidays and national holidays.
* Kind reminder: All departure dates require reconfirmation. Hotel availability is also subject to final confirmation.
* This is a bundled package and cannot be split or partially booked. Any unused services in the package will be considered forfeited. For individual service bookings, please inquire separately.
* Children under 6 years old can enjoy a child discount without occupying a bed (please inquire for details). Children aged 6 and above are charged as adults.

Travel tips

Hotel/Apartment Reference:
Note: If fully booked, a hotel/apartment of the same standard will be arranged

【HOTEL TOYOTOMI SKYBIRD】
Room Options: Standard Twin (2 × 0.8 m beds, 16 ㎡) or Double (1 × 140 cm bed, 14 ㎡)
Address: 2-5-18 Shikitsuhigashi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka 556-0012, Japan (〒556-0012大阪府大阪市浪速区敷津東2-5-18)
Transport:
Daikokucho Station (Midosuji Line): 1-minute walk from Exit 1
From Kansai Airport (Nankai Line): Get off at Shin-Imamiya Station → 12-minute walk to the apartment
To Shinsaibashi: 2 stops from Daikokucho Station (Midosuji Line) → 2-minute walk to the station
 
【YIYIHOUSE Shinsaibashi】- Family Recommended (4–6 people/room)
Room Options: Western-Japanese Style Room – 2 beds × 1 m + 4 floor beds × 1 m, 40 ㎡
Address: 4-13-1 Chome Minamisenba, Chuo-ku, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture, Japan
Transport:
Nagahoribashi Station (Midosuji Line): 5-minute walk from Exit 2
From Kansai Airport (Nankai Line): Arrive at Nagahoribashi Station → 5-minute walk to the apartment
To Shinsaibashi: 1 stop from Nagahoribashi Station (Midosuji Line) → 5-minute walk to the station

【Holiday Pearl Hotelホリディパールホテル】
Room Options: Twin Room – 2 beds, 25 ㎡
Address: 3-22-14 Hirao, Taisho-ku, Osaka 551-0012, Japan
Transport: 5-minute walk from Hirao Bus Stop → Direct bus to Namba Station
 

Tour operator