Japan's Oldest Shrine & Nagashi Somen Walking Tour from Nara
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5h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Visit Omiwa Shrine, the oldest shrine in Japan, and be impressed by Japan's largest torii gate!!
Join a guided tour from Nara to visit Omiwa Shrine, the oldest shrine in Japan, and witness the grandeur of Japan's largest torii gate, followed by the pleasure of tasting Nara's specialty, Miwa Somen-nagashi, including Kamameshi rice, and savor a rare dessert from a crepe vending machine.
You can try and enjoy Nagashi somen!Nagashi somen is a fun Japanese eating style.You catch the noodles with your chopsticks, dip them in a cup of flavorful sauce and eat.The noodles are characterized by their thin and firm texture!
Available options
Japan's Oldest Shrine & Nagashi Somen Walking Tour from Nara
What's included
Round-trip transportation
Lunch
English guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Meet your guide at JR Nara Station and take a train from JR Nara Station to JR Miwa Station. It takes around 30 minutes by train.
2
Explore Omiwa Shrine, Japan's oldest, nestled in the sacred Mt. Miwa, with a serene approach lined by majestic trees. Visit Married Couple Rock, Sai Shrine's healing spring water, and a Viewing Platform for panoramic views. Discover the god of sake, enjoy Imanishi Sake Brewery's souvenirs and sake ice cream, and treat yourself to nearby famous croquette and monaka shops.
You will spend 120 minutes in Omiwa Jinja, 160 minutes is including 20 minutes walk.
3
Experience the delightful Japanese eating style of Nagashi Somen in Miwa, Sakurai City, Nara Prefecture, the birthplace of somen noodles. Catch the thin and firm noodles with your chopsticks as they flow in water, dip them in a tasty sauce, and savor the delicious flavors.
4
While heading to the station, stop by one of the famous stores in Miwa! Amazake and sake ice cream are also available for this shop. There are many local sake products and souvenirs there. Lets enjoy shopping.
5
Stop 5
Take a train from JR Miwa Station to JR Nara Station. It takes around 30 minutes by train.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
This is a private tour. Only your group will participate.
You can customize it as you like. If you have any requests please let us know in advance.
This tour utilizes public transportation. Please be aware that seats are not reserved.
Please ensure you arrive promptly at the designated meeting time.
Please be aware that weekends, holidays, and event days may experience high levels of congestion.
The schedule may be subject to sudden changes or shorter visit durations due to reasons such as traffic congestion.
Refunds will not be provided if you fail to arrive at the meeting location on time (no show).
In the event of a natural disaster, such as a typhoon, the tour will be canceled, and a full refund will be issued.
Please personally take responsibility for your valuables.
Meeting point
Our guide will bring flag 'HIS' and wait for you in fromt of JR 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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
![[Nara & Uji] Nara Park & Todai-ji Temple & Byodo-in Temple & Uji Matcha Gourmet & World Heritage Onsen Day Trip (From Osaka)](https://res.klook.com/image/upload/activities/op8ebikytywpfcwudenb.jpg)
