Private Nara Tour and Sake Tasting (Departing from Kyoto/Nara)
Active
4h - 6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover the best of Nara on our PRIVATE morning tour, before the popular spots get crowded! Meet the friendly deer, admire Japan’s largest Great Buddha at Todai-ji Temple, and enjoy a sake tasting to experience local flavors. Explore Japan’s first capital in a fun, relaxed, and efficient way — perfect for a half-day trip from Kyoto or Osaka!
Available options
Meet at Kintetsu Nara Station
Duration: 4 hours: Our private tour offers a personalized experience with flexible schedules and relaxing breaks, letting you enjoy every moment<br/>Starting point:<br/>Kintetsu-Nara Station, Japan, 630-8215 Nara, Nishimikadochō, 東向中町29
Pick up at Kyoto Station
Duration: 6 hours: Our private tour offers a personalized experience with flexible schedules and relaxing breaks, letting you enjoy every moment<br/>Starting point:<br/>Kyoto Station, Higashishiokoji Kamadonocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8216, Japan
What's included
Entrance Fees: Todai-ji Temple (800yen)
Passionate Local English-Speaking Guide
Professional Photos will be Taken During the Tour/Experience!
Detailed itinerary
1
Kofuku-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Nara, is renowned for its iconic five-story pagoda, the second tallest in Japan, and its rich Buddhist heritage.
2
Stop 2
Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks. It is home to the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world, and its massive wooden hall, the Daibutsuden, is the largest wooden structure of its kind. A symbol of Nara's rich history, the temple offers a profound cultural and spiritual experience.
3
Niigatsudo, part of Todai-ji Temple, offers stunning views of Nara and is famous for its Omizutori ceremony, held every March. This ancient tradition, over 1,200 years old, marks the arrival of spring with torch-lit rituals.
4
Stop 4
Tamukeyama Hachimangu Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine located on the eastern side of Nara Park, near Todai-ji Temple. Founded in 749, it was built to enshrine Hachiman, the guardian deity of Todai-ji and its Great Buddha. The shrine has long been associated with samurai and warriors, as Hachiman is considered the god of war and protection. Surrounded by nature, it offers a peaceful atmosphere and is especially beautiful during autumn when the leaves change color.
5
Stop 5
Nara Park is a beautiful, expansive park famous for its friendly, free-roaming deer. Visitors can enjoy the unique experience of feeding these gentle animals, making it a memorable part of your visit to Nara.
6
Stop 6
Kasuga Taisha Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of Nara's most important Shinto shrines. Known for its hundreds of stone and bronze lanterns, the shrine is dedicated to the deity of the Fujiwara clan and is a peaceful, spiritual site surrounded by lush forest.
7
(For those interested, sake tasting is available for 700 yen)Harushika Brewery is renowned for producing high-quality sake using traditional methods. Known for its rich, smooth flavor, Harushika sake is crafted from locally grown rice and pure mountain water, offering a true taste of Nara's brewing heritage.
What's not included
Public Transportation Fare: Applicable only for departures from Kyoto.
Sake Tasting Fee: Applicable only to those who wish to participate.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Written guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
11 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
24 reviews
5★
24
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
The tour duration depends on the departure point—around 6 hours from Kyoto and about 4 hours from Nara. If you opt for the sake tasting, please allow an extra 30 minutes.
This tour is designed as a WALKING experience, using public transportation and plenty of time on foot to explore Nara.
If you are late for the meeting time, you will not be able to join the tour or receive a refund.
Meeting point
This tour can begin at Kintetsu-Nara Station. If you are staying in Osaka or Nara, we recommend starting here. Your guide will be waiting right in front of the large statue of Gyoki-bosatsu, just outside the station, holding a board with the OTAKU hopper logo.
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
Instant confirmation
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