Osaka – Nara – Kyoto 1-Day Model Course: A Cost-Effective Journey with KINTETSU RAIL PASS! 〜Exploring the Cultural Heritage of Ancient Capitals in One Day〜

The "KINTETSU RAIL PASS 1day" is the pass on this trip that unlocks all the saving perks needed to easily travel around Osaka, Nara and Kyoto. With this special pass global visitors to Japan can enjoy not only unlimited travel on Kintetsu trains, but also specified sections of Nara Kotsu buses!
Travel smoothly without having to stop and buy tickets along the way, all while enjoying discounts and other perks at participating shops.

There are four different pass options, including the KINTETSU RAIL PASS 2day, valid for two days in Osaka, Nara, and Kyoto, the KINTETSU RAIL PASS 5day and KINTETSU RAIL PASS 5day plus, which includes the expanded area of Mie Prefecture (e.g. spots like Ise-Shima) and Nagoya. To start, just pick according to where you want to go and enjoy the ride.

The journey begins at Kintetsu Railway’s Osaka Namba Station. Taking the Kintetsu Nara Line Rapid Express, the train reaches Kintetsu Nara Station in about 40 minutes. From there, it's a five-minute walk to the first destination, Nara Park.

Spanning a vast natural area, Nara Park extends from Mt. Wakakusa to Kasugayama Primeval Forest, a Special Natural Monument.
The park is adjacent to significant historical and cultural sites, including Todaiji Temple and Kasugataisha Shrine, making it a must-visit location in Nara. Visitors can also see deer designated as a Natural Monument, freely roaming the park. A morning walk through this beautiful natural setting offers a refreshing and peaceful start to the day.

After exploring Nara Park, the next stop is Todaiji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a representative temple of the Nara period.

Founded in the 8th century, Todaiji Temple is famous for the Great Buddha of Nara (Daibutsu), whose dedication ceremony took place in 752 AD. The temple complex took nearly 40 years to complete and houses many important cultural properties, including the Hokkedo (Sangatsudo), the oldest existing structure in Todaiji Temple. The Tōdai-ji Museum, located within the expansive temple grounds, showcases historical artifacts, Buddhist statues, and cultural treasures, making it a fascinating place to explore.

The journey continues to Kasugataisha Shrine, a shrine established to protect Heijo-kyo (the ancient capital) and bring prosperity to the nation. Both Kasugataisha Shrine and Kasugayama Primeval Forest are designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

With a history spanning over 1,300 years, Kasugataisha Shrine features four main shrine pavilions, all designated as National Treasures, along with 62 auxiliary and subordinate shrines that maintain their original layout since the shrine’s foundation. The Kasuga Taisha Museum (National Treasure Hall) houses an impressive collection of approximately 3,000 cultural assets, including National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties.
The shrine is also famous for its wisteria flowers, which bloom from late April to early May, making it an excellent spot for seasonal visits.

For lunch, head to Edogawa Naramachi, a traditional Japanese restaurant specializing in unagi (grilled eel). From the "Todaiji Temple Daibutsuden/Kasuga Taisha-mae" bus stop, take the Nara Kotsu Bus Lines to "Kintetsu Nara Station", followed by a 10-minute walk.

Founded in 1952 in Kyoto, Edogawa is an established unagi restaurant. The Naramachi branch is located in a charming traditional house dating back 150 years, offering a charming and historic atmosphere. The restaurant features various seating options, including horigotatsu (sunken kotatsu seating), tatami mat rooms, and table seating, catering to different dining preferences.
The menu highlights locally sourced ingredients such as Yamato vegetables, Yamato chicken, and Yamato pork, served alongside Kanto-style unagi dishes. The recommended dish for lunch is the Asuka-nabe Zen (Deluxe), a set meal featuring Asuka hot pot made with milk from Uemura Farm in Nara, accompanied by a mini unagi rice bowl.

The final stop on this journey is Toji Temple, one of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks. The temple's five-story pagoda, which can be seen from the Tokaido Shinkansen, is a well-known symbol of Kyoto. From Kintetsu Nara Station, take the Nara Express for about 45 minutes to Toji Station, followed by a 10-minute walk.

Founded in 796 AD, Toji is the head temple of the Shingon Buddhist sect. The temple complex has undergone several reconstructions, and among its many treasures, the Golden Hall (Kondo), built in the Momoyama period, and the Five-Story Pagoda, standing at 55 meters, are both designated National Treasures. The view of the Five-Story Pagoda from the temple’s Hyotan Pond is particularly famous for its beauty.
Additionally, the Treasure Hall opens for special exhibitions in spring and autumn, featuring rotating thematic displays that are not to be missed.

How was this one-day journey exploring the cultural heritage of Nara and Kyoto?
This trip offers an immersive experience in Japanese history and culture, from the vast Nara Park, a scenic destination in all seasons, to UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Nara, and Toji Temple, a symbol of Kyoto visible even from the Shinkansen. For those interested in a deep cultural experience, this itinerary provides a perfect introduction to the rich history of Japan’s ancient capitals.

In addition to the above, the KINTETSU RAIL PASS 1day can also be used in Osaka, meaning more fun ways for you to design your personal travels.

Why not check out the official social media, which introduces photo-worthy spots along the Kintetsu Line, the latest information, and events, and use it as a reference for planning your trip?