Discover Ancient Nara: Private Car Tour from Kyoto or Osaka

Nara , Japan

Discover Ancient Nara: Private Car Tour from Kyoto or Osaka

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(48 reviews)

8h - 9h

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

After enjoying sightseeing in Kyoto or Osaka, why not visit Nara?
This ancient city, rich in nature and history, offers a unique kind of charm.
For a smooth and comfortable tour, you’ll be accompanied by two staff members: a dedicated driver and a friendly guide.

Depart from your hotel in Kyoto or Osaka
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Visit Todai-ji Temple to see the Great Buddha
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Stroll through Nara Park, feed the deer, and take photos
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Enjoy lunch at a lovely local Japanese restaurant
Other dining options available on request
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Explore the Naramachi area
Walk through traditional townhouses and browse local shops
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Visit Kasuga Taisha Shrine
A historic shrine set in a sacred forest preserved for over 1,000 years
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Drive to Mount Wakakusa summit
Enjoy panoramic views and photos with the deer
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Return to your hotel in Kyoto or Osaka

★ Optional experiences if time allows:
Afternoon tea at the historic Nara Hotel
Casual matcha experience
Local Nara sake tasting
Seasonal activities like strawberry picking

Available options

For 3+ People (Guide & Driver)

Pickup included

Up to 2 People(Guide & Driver)

Pickup included

What's included

In-person English Guide

Bottled water

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

You can take commemorative photos with the deer and feed them to build a friendly connection.

Stop 2

When visiting Nara, you’ll definitely want to see the Great Buddha. Our guide will provide an explanation of the history of Todai-ji Temple.

Stop 3

Naramachi is a historic district in Nara. You can enjoy lunch, shopping, and even watch mochi-pounding at Nakatanidou. At Nigiwa-i-no-ie, you can explore the interior of a traditional townhouse.

Stop 4

Kasuga Taisha is the most famous shrine in Nara, attracting many visitors from all over Japan. A guide will accompany you during your visit.

Wakakusa Mountain offers a panoramic view of the cities of Nara and Osaka. It’s a perfect spot to capture stunning photos, especially with the deer and the breathtaking sunset. This is definitely a must-visit location, and you can even drive all the way to the top.

What's not included

Admission fee for temples（Todaiji ¥800）

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

38 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

10 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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.