Nara: Discover a Giant Stone Buddha in the Forest Hills

Nara Prefecture , Japan

Nara: Discover a Giant Stone Buddha in the Forest Hills

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About this experience

Most visitors to Nara stick to the well-trodden paths—but this tour takes you beyond, into the forested mountains where few travelers venture. At Tsubosaka-dera, you’ll encounter a giant stone Buddha overlooking the valley, a sight both awe-inspiring and deeply calming.

Unlike crowded tourist spots, this sacred site offers space to reflect, breathe, and connect with a more spiritual side of Japan. With a knowledgeable guide by your side, you’ll learn the stories behind the temple’s healing traditions, its serene Eleven-Faced Kannon statue, and the natural harmony that defines the area.

Whether you're drawn by nature, history, or the quiet presence of stone and prayer, this tour delivers something rare: a truly meaningful encounter with Japan’s sacred past—without the crowds, and with far more soul.

Available options

Nara: Discover a Giant Stone Buddha in the Forest Hills

What's included

Panoramic views of southern Nara

View of the Eleven-Faced Kannon

Visit to the colossal stone Buddha

Guided tour of Tsubosaka-dera temple

Detailed itinerary

Tucked away in the forested mountains at the southern edge of the Nara Basin, Tsubosaka-dera is a sanctuary of peace, healing, and reflection. Far from the busy crowds of central Nara, this temple offers a deeper, quieter encounter with Japan’s spiritual heritage.

The highlight is a colossal stone Buddha, gazing peacefully over the valley—a modern yet timeless figure carved not for show, but for inner reflection. Inside the temple, the Eleven-Faced Kannon, goddess of mercy, radiates quiet compassion, surrounded by centuries of devotion.

Set amid lush trees and panoramic mountain views, Tsubosaka-dera invites you to slow down and reconnect—with nature, with history, and with yourself. Traditionally known for its role in prayers for eye and body healing, the temple remains a place where faith and natural beauty are inseparable.

This is more than a sightseeing stop.
It’s a space to breathe, to think, and to feel.
Tsubosaka-dera is where ancient stone and living spirit come together.

What's not included

Transportation to the temple

Meals and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meeting point: In front of the entrance reception at Tsubosaka-dera.
Your guide will be waiting for you, holding a yellow sign.
Please refer to the map for further details.

About Nara Prefecture

Nara Prefecture, located in the Kansai region of Japan, is renowned for its rich history and cultural heritage. As the first permanent capital of Japan, it boasts numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the famous Nara Park with its friendly deer and the iconic Todai-ji Temple housing the Great Buddha.

Top Attractions

Todai-ji Temple

Todai-ji Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan's most famous temples. It houses the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), a massive bronze statue of Buddha that is a symbol of Nara.

Historical/Religious 1.5 to 2 hours ¥600

Nara Park

Nara Park is famous for its friendly wild deer, which are considered messengers of the Shinto gods. The park is a beautiful green space with scenic walking paths and historic temples.

Nature/Cultural 1 to 2 hours Free (¥200 for deer crackers)

Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Kasuga Taisha is a renowned Shinto shrine with a history dating back to 768 AD. It is famous for its lanterns, which are donated by worshippers and hang from the shrine's buildings.

Religious/Cultural 1 to 1.5 hours Free (¥500 for the Treasure Museum)

Nara National Museum

The Nara National Museum houses a vast collection of Buddhist art and artifacts, providing insight into Japan's religious and cultural history.

Museum/Cultural 1 to 1.5 hours ¥700

Isuien Garden

Isuien Garden is a beautiful traditional Japanese garden with a history dating back to the Edo period. It offers stunning views of Mount Wakakusa and the surrounding city.

Nature/Cultural 30 minutes to 1 hour ¥310

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kakinoha-zushi

Sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves, a traditional Nara delicacy with a unique flavor and aroma

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish and rice, may contain allergens

Miso-ni

A comforting miso-based soup with tofu, vegetables, and sometimes meat, reflecting Nara's Buddhist culinary traditions

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian options available, may contain soy

Kudzu-mochi

A traditional Japanese sweet made from kudzu starch, often served with kinako (roasted soybean flour) and kuromitsu (brown sugar syrup)

Dessert Vegetarian, may contain gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking in Mount Yoshino Cycling around Nara Park Tea ceremony at a traditional tea house Strolling through Isuien Garden Visiting historic temples and shrines Participating in a traditional craft workshop Visiting hot springs (onsen) in nearby areas Enjoying winter illuminations at temples

Best Time to Visit

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

Spring brings cherry blossoms, while autumn offers stunning fall foliage. These seasons provide comfortable weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Expect large crowds and higher prices for accommodations.

10°C to 25°C 50°F to 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 destination 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 and out of sight
• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Use reputable tour guides and vendors

Getting there

By air

Kansai International Airport • 50 km from Nara city center
Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 35 km from Nara city center

By train

Nara Station, Kintetsu Nara Station

By bus

Nara Station Bus Terminal, Kintetsu Nara Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The Nara City Loop Bus is a convenient and affordable way to get around. Buses are frequent and easy to use, with English announcements and signage.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Nara Park and Todai-ji Area Nakatanicho Sanjo Dori

Day trips

Asuka Village

15 km from Nara • Half day to full day

Asuka Village is a historic site with ancient tombs, temples, and ruins, offering a glimpse into Japan's ancient past. It is known as the birthplace of Japanese civilization and the first permanent capital of Japan.

Mount Yoshino

25 km from Nara • Full day

Mount Yoshino is famous for its stunning cherry blossoms in the spring and beautiful autumn foliage. It is also a sacred site with numerous temples and shrines, including the famous Kinpusen-ji Temple.

Osaka

40 km from Nara • Full day

Osaka is a vibrant city with a mix of modern attractions, historic sites, and delicious street food. It offers a diverse range of experiences, from shopping and dining to cultural and historical exploration.

Festivals

Nara Tokae Shogyo Festival • April 1st Nara Matsuri • October (second weekend) Shinji-kawase Festival • July 14th-15th

Pro tips

Visit Todai-ji Temple early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere
Buy deer crackers (shika senbei) to feed the friendly deer in Nara Park, but be cautious and follow the park's guidelines
Consider purchasing a Kintetsu Railway Pass for unlimited travel on Kintetsu lines, which can be cost-effective for tourists
Explore Nara-machi, the old town, for a glimpse into traditional Japanese architecture and local crafts
Try kakinoha-zushi, a unique Nara delicacy made with sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves