Shore Excursion: Full Day Private Nara Tour from Osaka /Kobe port

Osaka , Japan

Shore Excursion: Full Day Private Nara Tour from Osaka /Kobe port

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(1 reviews)

6h - 10h

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Exclusively designed for cruise travelers docking in Kobe or Osaka, this customizable Nara tour takes you to iconic sights like Kofuku-ji Temple, Todaiji Temple, and the famous Nara Deer Park. Perfect for families and culture seekers, it offers a seamless, stress-free day with insider knowledge, sacred shrines like Kasuga Taisha, and unforgettable encounters with friendly deer—all while ensuring timely return to your ship

Tour itinerary is designed based on hiring a car/van for 10 hours (Please carefully check the Inclusions & exclusions and the booking and payment options) to provide ample time to visit Nara's most iconic cultural & historic landmarks, ensuring a comprehensive experience of the city's rich heritage.

Itinerary (Customizable):
08:00 Meeting at Osaka or Kobe port (depending on your cruise ship dock time)
09:30 Kofuku-ji Temple
11:00 Nara Deer Park
12:00 Lunch Break
13:30 Todaiji Temple
15:00 Kasuga Taisha Shrine
16:00 Back to the Port
18:00 Drop off at the port

Available options

Transport for 12 pax included

Hired 14 Seats Van<br/>Pickup included

Transport for 5 pax included

Hired 7 Seats Van<br/>Pickup included

Shore excursion: Full Day Private Nara Tour From Osaka/Kobe Port

Transport for 8 pax included

Hired 10 seats Van<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Transportation cost is NOT included. Please carefully review the exclusions listed below.

Entrance fee

Tour management, Tour guiding, Driver arrangement of pick up and drop off

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Nara Park is famous for its hundreds of freely roaming sika deer, considered sacred and protected as national treasures. These friendly deer often approach visitors, especially if offered special deer crackers (shika senbei) sold throughout the park. The peaceful coexistence of wildlife, historic temples, and lush greenery makes it a uniquely charming experience.

A historic Buddhist temple in Nara, once the powerful family temple of the influential Fujiwara clan. Known for its striking Five-Story Pagoda (one of Japan's tallest) and elegant Eastern Golden Hall, the temple showcases exquisite examples of Nara-period architecture. As part of the "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara" UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kōfuku-ji offers a serene atmosphere near Nara Park.

Stop 3

Todaiji Temple in Nara is one of Japan's most famous and historically significant temples, known for housing the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), one of the largest bronze statues of Buddha in the world. Originally built in the 8th century, the temple served as the head of all provincial Buddhist temples in Japan. Surrounded by beautiful parkland and friendly deer, Todaiji offers a serene and culturally rich experience.

Stop 4

Kasuga Taisha Shrine is Nara’s most celebrated Shinto shrine, famous for its hundreds of bronze and stone lanterns that line the pathways and hang throughout the grounds. Founded in 768 AD, the shrine is dedicated to the deity responsible for the protection of the city. Nestled within a tranquil forest, it offers a spiritual atmosphere and a glimpse into traditional Japanese architecture and customs.

What's not included

Transportation(cash): up to 5 travelers:¥120,000, up to 8 travellers: ¥140,000

Available languages

Guide guide

AR EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Your driver will be waiting exactly at the passenger exit of the cruise port, holding a sign with your name for easy identification.

If your required pick-up location is not the cruise port, please specify in advance, and we’ll gladly accommodate your request.

About Osaka

Osaka is a vibrant, bustling city known for its rich culinary scene, historic sites, and modern entertainment. As Japan's second-largest metropolitan area, it offers a dynamic mix of traditional culture and contemporary urban life.

Top Attractions

Osaka Castle

A iconic symbol of Osaka, this castle was originally built in the 16th century and has been beautifully restored. It offers a glimpse into Japan's feudal history and features a museum and scenic park.

Historical 2-3 hours 600 JPY

Dotonbori

A lively and colorful entertainment district known for its neon lights, street food, and vibrant nightlife. Dotonbori is a must-visit for foodies and those looking to experience Osaka's energetic atmosphere.

Entertainment 2-3 hours Free (food and shopping vary)

Universal Studios Japan

A popular theme park featuring attractions based on famous movies and characters, including Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World, and Jurassic Park. It's a great destination for families and thrill-seekers.

Entertainment Full day 8,400-10,600 JPY (varies by season and tickets)

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

One of the largest aquariums in the world, featuring a wide variety of marine life, including whales, sharks, and penguins. The aquarium is known for its impressive exhibits and educational programs.

Nature 2-3 hours 2,600 JPY

Shinsekai

A retro district with a nostalgic atmosphere, featuring the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower and a variety of local eateries. Shinsekai is known for its unique blend of old and new, offering a glimpse into Osaka's past.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free (food and shopping vary)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Takoyaki

Octopus-filled batter balls, cooked to perfection and topped with savory sauces and bonito flakes. A must-try street food in Osaka.

Snack Contains seafood, can be made vegetarian upon request

Okonomiyaki

A savory pancake made with cabbage, batter, and various toppings, cooked on a griddle. Often referred to as 'Japanese pizza.'

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan upon request

Kushikatsu

Deep-fried skewers of various meats, vegetables, and seafood, served with a dipping sauce. A specialty of the Shinsekai district.

Dinner Contains seafood and meat, can be made vegetarian upon request

Ramen

Noodle soup dish with various broths, toppings, and noodle types. Osaka is known for its rich and flavorful ramen.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan upon request

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby mountains Cycling tours Kayaking and water sports Onsen (hot spring) visits Tea ceremonies Gardens and parks Temple and shrine visits Traditional workshops (e.g., calligraphy, ikebana)

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

These months offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Cherry blossoms in March and April add to the appeal.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

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

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (GMT+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Osaka is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on public safety. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis and reputable tour operators

Getting there

By air

Kansai International Airport • 50 km from city center
Itami Airport • 20 km from city center

By train

Osaka Station, Shin-Osaka Station

By bus

Osaka Station Bus Terminal, Umeda Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The Osaka Metro system is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. It consists of eight lines that connect major attractions, shopping districts, and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Umeda Namba Shin-Osaka Tennoji

Day trips

Kyoto

50 km • Full day

A historic city known for its temples, shrines, and traditional architecture. Kyoto offers a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage and is a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts.

Nara

40 km • Half day to full day

A historic city known for its ancient temples, shrines, and the famous Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer. Nara offers a mix of history, culture, and nature.

Kobe

30 km • Full day

A port city known for its historic sites, scenic views, and delicious beef. Kobe offers a mix of culture, history, and culinary delights.

Festivals

Tenjin Matsuri • July 24-25 Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri • September 14-15 Osaka Castle Illumination • December (specific dates vary)

Pro tips

Use an IC card, such as ICOCA or Suica, for easy and convenient payments on public transportation, vending machines, and convenience stores
Try local specialties, such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu, at street food stalls and local restaurants
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and long lines
Explore the city's unique neighborhoods, such as Dotonbori, Shinsekai, and Den Den Town, to experience the diverse culture and atmosphere of Osaka
Take advantage of the city's extensive public transportation system, including the Osaka Metro, JR trains, and buses, to easily navigate and explore the city