Nara Great Buddha & Deer Customized Private Tour
Active
4h - 8h
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 the highlights of Nara with our friendly local guides who are not only knowledgeable but also passionate about their city. They will take you around the sites in most efficient way and provide you with in-depth insights into each site, ensuring you get the most out of your visit.
Nara, the first capital of Japan, is a captivating city that offers a journey back in time to the country's rich cultural and historical heritage. Famous for its serene temples and a shrine, stunning garden, and the iconic free-roaming deer. This tour allows you to choose several locations of your choice.
Join us for an unforgettable stop in Nara, the heart of Japan.
Please choose 3 to 4 must-see spots from "What To Expect" that you wish to visit.
Available options
8-hour Walking Tour from Kyoto
Kyoto Departure Tours: If you want to meet a guide at your hotel in Kyoto, please select this option.<br/>Duration: 8 hours: It's a 8-hour private tour where you can explore customized plans using public transportation.<br/>Tailor your tour: Visit 3-4 locations, planned in advance with your guide.<br/>Pickup included
4-hour Walking Tour
Meet at Nara Station: Please noted, if you want to meet a guide at your hotel in Osaka/Kyoto, please select other option. <br/>Duration: 4 hours: It's a 4-hour private tour where you can explore customized plans using public transportation.<br/>Tailor your tour: Visit 2 locations, planned in advance with your guide.
4-hour Private Vehicle Tour
Meet at Nara Station: Please noted, if you want to meet a guide at your hotel in Osaka/Kyoto, please select other option. <br/>Duration: 4 hours: It's an 4-hour private tour where you can explore customized plans using a private vehicle.<br/>Tailor your tour: Visit 2 locations, planned in advance with your guide.<br/>Max 6 Passengers
8-hour Walking Tour from Osaka
Osaka Departure Tours: If you want to meet a guide at your hotel in Osaka, please select this option.<br/>Duration: 8 hours: It's a 8-hour private tour where you can explore customized plans using public transportation.<br/>Tailor your tour: Visit 3-4 locations, planned in advance with your guide.<br/>Pickup included
8-hour Walking Tour
Meet at Nara Station: Please noted, if you want to meet a guide at your hotel in Osaka/Kyoto, please select other option. <br/>Duration: 8 hours: It's a 8-hour private tour where you can explore customized plans using public transportation.<br/>Tailor your tour: Visit 3-4 locations, planned in advance with your guide.
What's included
Professional Local Guide.
Detailed itinerary
1
A well-preserved old town filled with traditional wooden townhouses (machiya), boutique shops, and cozy cafés. It’s a great place to explore Nara’s rich merchant history and enjoy a leisurely walk.
2
Stop 2
Known for its free-roaming deer, Nara Park offers a unique experience where visitors can interact with these friendly creatures. The park is also home to Todai-ji and Kasuga Taisha, making it a central sightseeing spot.
3
Stop 3
Home to the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), Todai-ji is one of Japan’s most iconic temples. Its massive wooden hall, the Daibutsuden, is among the largest wooden buildings in the world.
4
A historical treasure house preserving imperial artifacts from the Nara period (8th century). The collection includes silk textiles, musical instruments, and items with influences from the Silk Road.
5
Stop 5
You can admire thousands of iconic lanterns, both stone and bronze, and interact with the friendly deer that are considered messengers of the gods. The vermilion main hall and surrounding ancient forest are a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a peaceful and beautiful experience.
6
Stop 6
The former imperial palace of Japan’s first permanent capital, offering a glimpse into ancient court life. Visitors can see reconstructions of the Audience Hall and other historical structures.
7
Stop 7
A significant Buddhist temple known for its twin pagodas and exquisite architecture. It is dedicated to Yakushi Nyorai, the Buddha of healing, and holds a serene, spiritual atmosphere.
8
Horyuji Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the world's oldest wooden buildings. Founded by Prince Shotoku, this temple complex, including the stunning five-story pagoda and Main Hall, showcases ancient Japanese Buddhist architecture.
What's not included
You & Guide
You & Guide
Meals & Drinks (for you & guide).
All Transport Fares (for you & guide).
Optional, additional fee applies.
Available languages
Guide guide
JA
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.8
16 reviews
5★
13
4★
3
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
A moderate amount of walking is included. Please wear comfortable walking shoes.
The tour will take place rain or shine.
Meeting point
Meet at JR Nara Station (in front of a ticket gate)
Important notes
*Important*
-Please let us know your hotel name and address in advance to meet up at your hotel.
-Please pay for the guide's transportation fee and lunch on the tour.
-This tour may be customized partially based on the listed spots in tour details,
so please discuss with your guide in advance.
-If you use a Wheelchair, stroller, or something we need to help you, please let us know in advance.
-If you request us to change the tour date or cancel the tour due to your convenience (including rain, flight, etc), we basically ask cancellation fee based on our cancellation policy.
-In the case if Japan Meteorological Agency provides the "warning" sign to the related area, we will do cancel your tour with full refund.
-If your hotel is cruise ship or airport area or far from central city, we need additional fee for meeting up at there.
=========================
On the day of your tour, our guide will be waiting at the meeting place with a board saying "Japan Wonder Travel".
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
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
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