Nara: Half-Day Private Tour of 4 Must-See Spots & Deer Park
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5h
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About this experience
Embark on a half-day tour of Nara’s rich heritage. Visit two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and interact with the sacred wild deer of Nara Park, believed to be divine messengers for over 1,200 years.
Your tour starts with Kofuku-ji Temple, known for its five-story pagoda, then continues to Todai-ji Temple, where you’ll see the awe-inspiring Great Buddha statue. Your guide will share stories about these historic sites and Japanese Buddhism.
Next, enjoy panoramic views from Nigetsu-do Temple, and walk to Kasuga Taisha Shrine, famous for its lanterns and deer. After exploring Nara Park, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. End the tour with a visit to a traditional old town, contrasting modern Tokyo, and see a merchant’s house to experience Nara’s past.
This tour offers a unique mix of culture, nature, and history in Nara.
Available options
Nara: Half-Day Private Tour of 4 Must-See Spots & Deer Park
Starting point:<br/>Kintetsu-Nara Station, Japan, 630-8215 Nara, Nishimikadochō, 東向中町29
7h tour (G-566)
7h tour (G-566): The additional option includes deer interaction and a visit to a renowned Japanese garden in Nara.(G-566)
<br/>Starting point:<br/>Kintetsu-Nara Station, Japan, 630-8215 Nara, Nishimikadochō, 東向中町29
From Kyoto (G-568)
From Kyoto - G-568: Travel to Nara from Kyoto Station with your guide.(G-568)<br/>Starting point:<br/>Kintetsu, 31-1 Higashishiokōji Kamadonochō, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8215, Japan
From Osaka (G-567)
From Osaka (G-567): Travel to Nara from Osaka-Namba Station with your guide.(G-567)<br/>Starting point:<br/>Lawson Namba 2-chōme, 2-chōme-2-3 Namba, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0076, Japan
What's included
Deer Cracker
Local guide
Todai-ji Temple visitation fee
Interaction with wild deer
Kohfuku-ji Temple visitation fee
Detailed itinerary
1
The five-story pagoda and other beauty of the 1,300 year old temple.
2
Stop 2
Todaiji Temple is famous for the Great Buddha. Of course, the Daibutsu is very impressive, but there are many other attractions here that will fascinate you, such as the Nigatsudo Hall, which was built to lean out from the cliff.
3
Stop 3
One of the most historic shrines in Japan. The precincts have been maintained as a sanctuary, and virgin forests remain. Enjoy the mysterious space.
4
Stop 4
Enjoy lunch recommended by the guide during the tour. Let your guide know at the beginning of the tour what you would like to eat.
5
Stop 5
Visit a Japanese house built over 100 years ago in the Naramachi district.
6
Stop 6
There are many old-fashioned buildings remaining in Naramachi. The Japan you have not yet seen is hidden at the end of the narrow alleys.
7
Stop 7
Pass by
Nara Park is world-famous for its friendly, free-roaming deer, considered messengers of the gods in Shinto tradition. Visitors can interact with over 1,200 deer, feed them special crackers, and even witness their polite bows. These gentle creatures make the park a unique and unforgettable experience.
What's not included
Private transportation
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
7 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
2 reviews
5★
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
If you choose the Kyoto departure option, the meeting point is in front of the ticket gates at Kintetsu Kyoto Station. Your guide will be waiting for you with a yellow sign. Please refer to the map for details.
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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