Nara , Japan

Nara - Heart of Nature Cross Bike Tour

Active

(19 reviews)

5h - 6h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore Nara away from all tourists, on a bike, reach the top of Wakakusayama Mountain, explore a lost temple in the forest, and admire hidden Buddhist statues carved in stone... A tour that mixes sport, nature, and Japanese history for a very unique experience and amazing memories.

Pour la demande de guide francophone:
Nous ne pouvons pas garantir la francophonie pour un tour partagée, car mélangeant plusieurs nationalités, la priorité deviendra l'anglais.
Tous nos guides parlent au minimum anglais et japonais, ce qui veut dire que le français sera une langue supplémentaire. Le guide pourra donc alterner entre anglais et français si nécessaire.
Pour garantir la disponibilité du guide francophone à la date souhaitée, veuillez nous contacter à l'avance, afin que nous puissions confirmer qu'un guide francophone est toujours disponible pour votre date de réservation.
Merci pour votre compréhension.

Available options

Nara - Heart of Nature Cross Bike Tour

What's included

Water refill available. Please ask your guide. Guests can bring their own bottle. The guide will provide paper cups, as we go for zero plastic waste on the tour.

Bilingual local guide

All Fees and Taxes

Use of bicycle

Bike gear, including helmet, cycling sunglasses

Detailed itinerary

This temple, located near Todaiji, is where they celebrate the ritual of water once a year. There, you get to the main balcony for a nice view on Todaiji area and also get a calligraphy expert to sign your "Seal book" if you have one.

We will give you info about japanese history in Nara, essentially craft like calligraphy and knives. You'll visit a traditional knife shop with a 750 years history and can even try the blade on paper.
If you wish, you can buy knives and get tax refund directly. Also, you can get your name engraved on the blade in Japanese characters for free as you'll be with us (If the staff is working that day).

Stop 3

We reach the top of Wakakusayama and get a mind blowing vision of Nara for a "one of a kind" picture spot during this tour.
Snack and water refill provided when we reach the top. Go for the reward !

Stop 4

In this long forgotten temple, called "Kyofukuji", in the middle of the forest, you'll admire how nature progressivelly takes the area back. The mix of buddhist architecture and nature provide a unique harmony that is very hard to find.

Stop 5

We will walk a few minutes to reach "Uguisuno Falls", a waterfall with an old and preserved bridge in the middle of the forest. Mind the wild life, as you mind make some new friends (See our adorable 8 legs friend).

Discover hidden buddhist statues carved in stone in The forest of Kasugayama. These remains of an old buddhist community are now protected and can be seen by those who are willing to walk or ride in the mountain long enough to reach its location

Beautiful and peaceful pond located south of Nara Park, just away from the main touristic spots. Ideal for a last picture and finish the tour with a great smile.

What's not included

Any shopping extra, souvenirs, snacks, drinks

For safety reason, diet and allergies, lunch is not included. Please bring your own lunch. We will stop by a convenience store before leaving the city if someone needs something, Thank you.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

17 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness

While single travelers can book this tour directly, there is a "2 guests minimum" rule to give the tour a GO. in case of a single guest, the session might be cancelled and the guest will be notify as soon as possible, offering a rescheduling, or a full-refund.

Not recommended for children under 14 years old (please contact us for specific request)

Meeting point

We are near "TOICHISHOGAKKO" Bus stop, a few minutes off the city center.
BY BUS  :
Weekday: Buses Number
 62 : 09:00 --> 09:03 --> 09:17 
57 : 09:30 --> 09:33 --> 09:47  
Sat/Sun/Holliday : Bus Number 62
- 09:00 --> 09:03 --> 09:17
- 09:20 --> 09:23 --> 09:37
- 09:40 --> 09:43 --> 09:57

Important notes

Once we get confirmation of the booking, we will contact you with an instruction file to find us and get to the meeting location.
For enquieries, delays, change of dates, cancellation, please contact us or change your situation on Trip Advisor

About Nara

Nara, Japan's first permanent capital, is a city steeped in history and culture. Known for its ancient temples, friendly deer, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Nara offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The city's well-preserved heritage sites and serene landscapes make it a must-visit destination in Japan.

Top Attractions

Todai-ji Temple

Todai-ji Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan's most famous and historically significant temples. It houses the Great Buddha Hall, which contains a giant bronze Buddha statue.

Historical/Religious 2-3 hours 600 JPY (5.50 USD)

Nara Park

Nara Park is famous for its friendly deer, which are considered sacred in Shinto tradition. The park is also home to several important temples and shrines.

Nature/Cultural 1-2 hours Free (200 JPY for deer crackers)

Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Kasuga Taisha is a famous Shinto shrine with a history dating back to 768 AD. It is known for its many lanterns, which are donated by worshippers.

Religious/Cultural 1-2 hours Free (500 JPY for the Botanical Garden)

Kofuku-ji Temple

Kofuku-ji Temple was once one of the most powerful and influential temples in Japan. It is known for its pagoda and museum, which houses many important artifacts.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours 300 JPY (Museum) (3 USD)

Nara National Museum

Nara National Museum is dedicated to the art and history of Nara and its temples. It houses a collection of Buddhist sculptures, paintings, and other artifacts.

Museum 1-2 hours 620 JPY (5.50 USD)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kakinoha-zushi

A type of sushi where vinegared rice and fish are wrapped in persimmon leaves, giving it a unique flavor and aroma.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish

Nara zuiki

A traditional Nara dish made with chicken, mushrooms, and vegetables cooked in a sweet soy-based sauce.

Dinner Contains chicken

Nara pickles

A variety of pickled vegetables, including radish, eggplant, and cucumber, known for their unique flavors and textures.

Snack/Side Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in Nara Park Biking around the city Tea ceremony Onsen (hot spring) visit Temple visits Traditional crafts workshops Winter illuminations at temples and shrines Deer feeding in Nara Park

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (October to November)

These seasons offer pleasant weather and are ideal for outdoor activities. Spring brings cherry blossoms, while autumn features beautiful fall foliage.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Nara is a very safe city with low crime rates. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of deer in Nara Park, as they can be aggressive when looking for food
• Avoid walking alone in poorly lit or deserted areas at night

Getting there

By air

Kansai International Airport • 50 km (31 miles)
Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 35 km (22 miles)

By train

Nara Station

By bus

Nara Station, Kintetsu Nara Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and covers most major attractions. Day passes are available for frequent travelers.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Nakasenbon Zakuracho Sanjo-dori

Day trips

Osaka

40 km (25 miles) • Half day to full day

Osaka is a vibrant city known for its food, shopping, and nightlife. It offers a mix of modern attractions and historic sites.

Kyoto

40 km (25 miles) • Full day

Kyoto is a city rich in history and culture, with numerous temples, shrines, and gardens. It's known for its traditional tea houses, geisha districts, and historic streets.

Ise

80 km (50 miles) • Full day

Ise is home to the Ise Grand Shrine, one of Shinto's holiest sites. The city offers a serene and spiritual experience, with beautiful forests and traditional architecture.

Festivals

Nara Matsuri • April 25-26 Lantern Festival at Kasuga Taisha • February 3-4

Pro tips

Visit Todai-ji Temple early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more serene experience.
Buy deer crackers to feed the deer in Nara Park, but be cautious and follow the rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable interaction.
Consider staying in a ryokan for a unique cultural experience, complete with traditional tatami rooms, onsen (hot springs), and kaiseki meals.
Explore Nara-machi, the historic district, for a glimpse into the city's past and to shop for local crafts and souvenirs.
Use an IC card like ICOCA for easy payments on public transportation, buses, and some shops and vending machines.