Explore Nara and Uji: A Day Trip Itinerary by Train

Day 1: Cultural Wonders

Nara, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mikasa

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Mikasa, famous for its traditional Japanese breakfast set, which includes grilled fish, rice, miso soup, and pickled vegetables.
Mikasa is centrally located and just a short walk from Nara Park.
JPY1000, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Todai-ji Temple

After breakfast, head to Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha statue, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of Nara's rich history.
A pleasant 15-minute walk from Mikasa will take you to the temple.
JPY600, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Nara Park

Stroll through Nara Park, where you can see the famous free-roaming deer and explore the serene gardens.
Nara Park is right next to Todai-ji Temple.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Naramachi

Enjoy a local lunch at a quaint restaurant in Naramachi, serving delicious soba noodles and a warm bowl of tempura.
Head to Naramachi, about a 10-minute walk from Nara Park.
JPY1200, 1 hour

1:00PM

Train to Uji

Catch the Kintetsu Nara Line train to Uji for a scenic journey, where beautiful landscapes will unfold before your eyes.
The train station is a 15-minute walk back towards central Nara.
JPY600, 45 minutes
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Day 1: Cultural Immersion

Uji, Japan

2:00PM

Visit Byodoin Temple

Upon arrival in Uji, visit Byodoin Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its stunning architecture and picturesque gardens.
It’s a 20-minute walk from Uji Station to Byodoin Temple.
JPY600, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Uji River

Take a leisurely stroll along the Uji River, enjoying the tranquility and breathtaking views of the surroundings.
The river is just a 10-minute walk from Byodoin Temple.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Tea Tasting Experience

Gain insights into Uji's rich tea culture with a tea tasting session at a local tea house, where you can sample authentic matcha and more.
Choose one of the many tea houses near the river, which are a short walk away.
JPY1500, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Yudofu Ryokan

End your day with a restful dinner at Yudofu Ryokan, known for its traditional tofu hot pot, which is both delicious and healthy.
The ryokan is about a 15-minute walk from the tea house.
JPY4000, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Return to Nara

Wrap up your day by returning to Nara by the Kintetsu Train line, reminiscing about the beautiful experiences enjoyed during your trip.
Head to Uji Station and board the train back to Nara.
JPY600, 45 minutes
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