Private Nara Experience with Local Guide

Nara , Japan

Private Nara Experience with Local Guide

Active

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore the iconic Nara with private car and knowledgeable local guide！ Experience the captivating beauty of the world's most photogenic city with a knowledgeble local guide!

Nara was the first permanent capital city in Japan.
Deer and people have lived here together in harmony for more than 1,000 years, with festivals that have continued annually for more than 1,200 years still remain.
Your local guide will show you the charms of Nara, a city with such a rich history.
You will hear interesting stories that you will not find in guidebooks.

In addition to iconic sightseeing spots in Nara such as Nara Park and Todaiji Temple, where the Big Buddha stands, we will visit the Isuien garden. Your guide will share the story about the technique of this garden, which reflects our japanese values.

Available options

Private Nara Experience with Local Guide

What's included

English speaking guide (Licensed guide)

Private transportation

Taxes

Entrance fee (Todaiji temple)

Lunch

(Isuien garden)

Entrance fee (Kasuga grand shrine)

Detailed itinerary

Meet up with English guide in front of the Gyoki Statue and take a private car to the Nara deer park

Isuien is a Japanese garden with a variety of features, such as the use of Todaiji Temple's Nandaimon Gate and Mount Wakakusayama as "borrowed scenery"

Stop 3

Todaiji-temple is one of Japan's most famous and historically significant temples. Iconic Big Buddha attracts tourists from all over the world. The Big Buddha is Japan’s largest at 15m high. Many tourists so touched to see the overwhelming sight of Big Buddha.

Read more about Half-Day Private Tour in Nara Park and Tōdai-ji Temple - https://www.viator.com/tours/Nara/The-Nara-Portrait-Tour/d50510-405133P1?localeSwitch=1?mcid=56757

Nigatsudo is located the east of Todaiji Temple. It offers one of the most beautiful views of the city from its balcony.

Stop 5

Nara Deer Park is one of the must-see areas in Japan. There are over 1,200 deer roaming the grounds! You can take your portrait with these cute deer!
Take a lunch at local restaurant.

Stop 6

One of the iconic shrine in Nara, known for its rich nature and the beautiful contrast of vermilion-colored architecture against the lush greenery.

Back to Gyoki Statue.

What's not included

Food & Drinks beyond those specified in our Inclusions

Anything not mention in "Price includes"

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

In front of the Gyoki Bosatsu statue.(行基菩薩像） Gyoki Bosatsu statue stands near the East Exist of Kintetsu Nara Station.

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.