Start with the hotel buffet to fuel the day; many hotel buffets open around 7:00–9:30 so confirm with reception. A substantial breakfast helps you maximise morning time in Nara.
From the hotel walk or take a short taxi to Kyoto Station, then take Kintetsu Limited Express (faster to Kintetsu Nara Station) or JR Nara Line to Nara; trains run frequently and the Kintetsu route places you closest to Nara Park.
Visit Tōdai‑ji to see the Daibutsu in one of Japan’s largest wooden buildings; arriving in the morning reduces crowds — main hall usually open ~7:30–17:00 in October (seasonal times vary).
Stroll Nara Park and meet the tame deer; buy shika‑senbei (deer crackers) from nearby stalls to feed them — park open all day, stalls generally open from mid‑morning.
Walk the lantern‑lined paths to Kasuga Taisha — the shrine grounds are serene and scenic; the inner museum/treasury has separate hours (often ~9:00–16:30) so check if you plan to enter.
Enjoy lunch in the preserved Naramachi neighbourhood — try kakinoha‑zushi (pressed sushi wrapped in persimmon leaf) or a warming bowl of soba/udon at a local eatery; many places serve lunch from ~11:00–15:00.
Wander Naramachi’s merchant streets for traditional shops, mochi vendors (e.g., Nakatanidō) and souvenirs — great for a final taste or quick shopping before returning to Kyoto.
Return to Kyoto by Kintetsu or JR (Kintetsu offers direct services to Kyoto/Kintetsu Kyoto Station; JR returns to Kyoto Station). Journey takes ~35–50 minutes depending on service.
Visit Fushimi Inari’s famous red torii gates — the main shrine area is open 24 hours, so an afternoon visit is comfortable and less crowded than peak midday; if you plan to climb the full trail allow extra time (trail is extensive).
Head to Nishiki Market to sample Kyoto specialties (yuba, pickles, fresh seafood and sweets); market hours are roughly 9:00–18:00, so late afternoon is ideal for tasting multiple stalls without lunch‑time crowds.
Walk through Gion’s historic streets to Yasaka Shrine and along Hanamikoji — perfect for evening atmosphere, geisha spotting (street scenes) and traditional teahouses; shrine grounds open daily but individual teahouses have varying hours.
Dine in Pontocho Alley or Gion for classic Kyoto cuisine — options range from kaiseki and yakitori to sushi. Many restaurants open for dinner from ~17:00–22:00; consider Izuju for Kyoto-style sushi or a cosy kappo in Pontocho for seasonal dishes.
After dinner, walk the Kamo River promenade for a relaxing end to the day — lights and riverside bars make for a pleasant atmosphere; this is a low‑cost way to soak up Kyoto by night.
Walk or take a short taxi back to Righa Royal Hotel from central Kyoto (Kyoto Station area is a short journey); rest after a full day of Nara and Kyoto highlights.