Todai-ji Temple & Nara Sake Tasting Walking Tour

Nara , Japan

Todai-ji Temple & Nara Sake Tasting Walking Tour

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

【Todai-ji Temple】
As one of Japan’s most iconic temples, Todai-ji Temple attracts numerous tourists from overseas every year. It is also famous for housing the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue, known as the “Great Buddha of Nara.” Said to have been built to ward off a widespread epidemic 1300 years ago, the Great Buddha successfully brought the epidemic to an end, bringing peaceful days to the people and has been at the heart of Japanese faith to this day.

【Imanishi Seibei Shoten】
We offer a sake tasting set at a sake shop run by the brewery of “Harushika,” a brand famous for its dry sake. Try tasting the subtle differences in flavor that even Japanese people find difficult to distinguish.

【Nara Beer Naramachi Brewery】
Nara Prefecture is also famous as a region of sake, with temples that were the first in Japan to obtain sake brewing licenses and shrines that enshrine the gods of sake brewing.
You can enjoy beer tasting at a craft beer brewery.

Available options

Todai-ji Temple & Nara Sake Tasting Walking Tour

What's included

Sake tasting set at Harushika brewery＆One beer tap at Nara Beer Naramachi Brewery

Admission to: Todai-ji Temple Admission Fee

Detailed itinerary

The Great South Gate of Tōdai-ji is an enormous wooden structure, standing about 25 meters tall, that showcases the rare and powerful Daibutsuyō architectural style. Inside the gate stand two towering Nio guardian statues—each more than eight meters high—sculpted in just 69 days by the master artists Unkei and Kaikei, whose dynamic, almost lifelike forms leave visitors in awe. Serving as the majestic entrance to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tōdai-ji, the gate rises with quiet dignity in the serene natural setting of Nara, offering a place where traditional Japanese architecture and Buddhist artistry can be experienced together in a single breathtaking moment.

Stop 2

The Great Buddha Hall of Tōdai-ji captivates visitors with its immense scale, known as one of the largest wooden buildings in the world, and with the majestic presence of the Great Buddha—Vairocana—seated at its center. The hall’s massive pillars and intricate wooden framework create an interior space that feels timeless, drawing you into an atmosphere where 1,300 years of history and spiritual devotion quietly endure. As natural light filters in and subtly changes the Buddha’s expression, the hall offers a sense of serenity and awe, making it a powerful symbol of Japanese culture and spirituality.

The Ukimido Pavilion, quietly overlooking Sagiike Pond in Nara Park, is admired for its elegant octagonal structure that reflects beautifully on the still water, creating a scene that changes with every season. Cherry blossoms in spring, deep green foliage in summer, vivid autumn colors, and serene snowscapes in winter all harmonize with the pavilion to form picture-perfect views. Its traditional wooden design gives the area a calm, timeless atmosphere, and the soft light at sunrise and sunset creates especially magical reflections on the pond. Just steps away from the lively parts of Nara Park, Ukimido offers a peaceful retreat where visitors can slow down and enjoy the gentle beauty of nature.

Imanishi Seibei Shoten, known for its Harushika sake, is a historic brewery founded in 1884 and located in the charming old district of Naramachi. Visitors can enjoy several sake tastings for a small fee, and Harushika’s clean, elegant flavor makes it one of Nara’s most beloved local brands. It’s an inviting spot where you can easily experience Nara’s sake tradition.

Stop 5

Naramachi Beer Brewery blends seamlessly into the historic streets of Naramachi, offering craft beers made with local ingredients and seasonal fruits. The cozy interior lets visitors enjoy fresh beer while seeing the brewing tanks up close. It’s a perfect stop to relax with a flavorful local brew while taking in the charm of Nara’s traditional townscape.

What's not included

Air-conditioned vehicle

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN JA EN

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The building is fully air-conditioned and has restrooms. Please gather at the benches inside (there are two entrances; enter through the left-hand entrance facing the building for free access). Your guide will be holding a sign that reads "888".

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.