Nara , Japan

Nara With a Licensed Guide

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

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About this experience

Nara is an ancient capital city in Japan and offers a very traditional atmosphere which is different from Kyoto or Tokyo.
This city is a very popular destination as an area where you can go on a day trip from Kyoto and Osaka.

You will meet your guide in Nara area and finish this tour in Nara.
This tour is a walking tour using public transportation.

This tour is led by a National Licensed Guide Interpreter.
This itinerary is just a sample. We'd be more than happy to arrange the tour based on your requests. Please let us know your interests!

Available options

Calligraphy Workshop

Calligraphy Workshop: This option includes a Japanese calligraphy lesson.<br/>Duration: 1 hour<br/>Pickup included

Nara With a Licensed Guide

Pickup included

What's included

Public Transportation fee

Admission Fee

Hotel Pickup

National Licensed English Speaking Guide. Please let us know if you prefer any other languages.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Nara Park is one of the most famous areas in Nara City. The vast area covers 660 hectares and is renowned for its free-roaming deer and world famous temples. You can buy special crackers and feed the deer.

The 25-meter-high structure is one of the largest temple gates in Japan. There are guardian kings standing in dark alcoves on both sides of the gate.

Stop 3

Todaiji is one of Japan's most famous and historically significant temples of Japan. The temple was built in 752 as the head temple of all Buddhist temples in Japan and became so powerful.

Higashimuki Shopping Street is a popular shopping arcade located in Nara, Japan. It runs parallel to the famous Nara Park and is one of the key attractions for visitors to the area. The street is lined with various shops, restaurants, and cafes, offering everything from traditional Japanese souvenirs to modern fashion and local delicacies.

One of the main highlights of Higashimuki Shopping Street is its close proximity to historic sites, including the Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The shopping street has a lively atmosphere and serves as a perfect place for tourists to experience both modern and traditional aspects of Japanese culture.

If you're visiting Nara, Higashimuki Shopping Street is a great place to stroll, shop, and try local treats like kaki no tane (rice crackers) and narazuke (pickled vegetables). It’s an enjoyable spot to spend time, whether you’re interested in shopping, eating, or simply taking in the local culture.

Isuien Garden is a beautiful Japanese garden located in Nara. It is known for its shakkei (borrowed scenery) technique, where the surrounding natural landscape, including Mt. Wakakusa, is seamlessly incorporated into the garden’s design.
This garden closes every Tuesdays, so we go to different spots if you book this tour on Tuesday.

Stop 6

Kasuga Taisha is considered one of the most sacred shrines in all of Japan. As a place where numerous gods are enshrined, it attracts both locals and tourists seeking an iconic Shinto experience.

What's not included

apx. 10-20 USD per person

Personal Expenses

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

The itinerary might be changed due to weather condition or other reasons.

Important notes

Please show the ticket to the guide when you meet.

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.