Sokoiko Cycling Through History The Beginning of Japan
Active
3h
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
Japan traces its cultural identity back to ancient Asuka. Join this guided cycling tour to dive into its rich history and explore local historical gems. Discover the mysteries of ancient kofun burial mounds and other significant sites with a knowledgeable and friendly guide.
Available options
Sokoiko Cycling Through History The Beginning of Japan
What's included
English Cycling Tour Guide
Electric bicycles (rental bikes) are included in the tour package.
Detailed itinerary
1
巨石で築かれた横穴式石室。古墳とは何か、なぜ古代から残されてきたのかを考える場所です。
2
天皇陵として築かれた古墳について学びます。皇室墓ならではの静けさを感じられる場所です。
3
世紀の大発見と呼ばれた壁画は、まるで古代へタイムスリップしたような体験を与えてくれます。
4
壁画が教えてくれる古代の美意識や暮らしを、実物大の再現展示で学ぶことができます。
5
日本の礎を築いた人物の足跡に触れられる寺院。外観からその歴史的な雰囲気を感じ取ります（入場はしません）。
6
日本を一つにまとめるために導入された仏教というシステム。その始まりを象徴する日本最古の本格寺院です。
7
力をつけ、時代を動かし、その果てに膨張した野望。その象徴が巨大な石室を持つ石舞台古墳です。
8
「変えなければ」という想いから動き、日本は生まれました。その舞台となったのが飛鳥宮跡です。
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
9 reviews
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Asuka Station Bicycle Rental Shop
Important notes
No tickets are required. When you check in, we will ask for your name. It will be helpful if you could show your Viator reservation screen at that time for a smooth check-in process. Thank you for your cooperation.
About Nara Prefecture
Nara Prefecture, located in the Kansai region of Japan, is renowned for its rich history and cultural heritage. As the first permanent capital of Japan, it boasts numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the famous Nara Park with its friendly deer and the iconic Todai-ji Temple housing the Great Buddha.
Top Attractions
Todai-ji Temple
Todai-ji Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan's most famous temples. It houses the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), a massive bronze statue of Buddha that is a symbol of Nara.
Historical/Religious
1.5 to 2 hours
¥600
Nara Park
Nara Park is famous for its friendly wild deer, which are considered messengers of the Shinto gods. The park is a beautiful green space with scenic walking paths and historic temples.
Nature/Cultural
1 to 2 hours
Free (¥200 for deer crackers)
Kasuga Taisha Shrine
Kasuga Taisha is a renowned Shinto shrine with a history dating back to 768 AD. It is famous for its lanterns, which are donated by worshippers and hang from the shrine's buildings.
Religious/Cultural
1 to 1.5 hours
Free (¥500 for the Treasure Museum)
Nara National Museum
The Nara National Museum houses a vast collection of Buddhist art and artifacts, providing insight into Japan's religious and cultural history.
Museum/Cultural
1 to 1.5 hours
¥700
Isuien Garden
Isuien Garden is a beautiful traditional Japanese garden with a history dating back to the Edo period. It offers stunning views of Mount Wakakusa and the surrounding city.
Nature/Cultural
30 minutes to 1 hour
¥310
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kakinoha-zushi
Sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves, a traditional Nara delicacy with a unique flavor and aroma
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish and rice, may contain allergens
Miso-ni
A comforting miso-based soup with tofu, vegetables, and sometimes meat, reflecting Nara's Buddhist culinary traditions
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian options available, may contain soy
Kudzu-mochi
A traditional Japanese sweet made from kudzu starch, often served with kinako (roasted soybean flour) and kuromitsu (brown sugar syrup)
Dessert
Vegetarian, may contain gluten
Popular Activities
Hiking in Mount Yoshino
Cycling around Nara Park
Tea ceremony at a traditional tea house
Strolling through Isuien Garden
Visiting historic temples and shrines
Participating in a traditional craft workshop
Visiting hot springs (onsen) in nearby areas
Enjoying winter illuminations at temples
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (October to November)
Spring brings cherry blossoms, while autumn offers stunning fall foliage. These seasons provide comfortable weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Expect large crowds and higher prices for accommodations.
10°C to 25°C
50°F to 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 destination 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 and out of sight
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
- • Use reputable tour guides and vendors
Getting there
By air
- Kansai International Airport • 50 km from Nara city center
- Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 35 km from Nara city center
By train
Nara Station, Kintetsu Nara Station
By bus
Nara Station Bus Terminal, Kintetsu Nara Station Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The Nara City Loop Bus is a convenient and affordable way to get around. Buses are frequent and easy to use, with English announcements and signage.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Nara Park and Todai-ji Area
Nakatanicho
Sanjo Dori
Day trips
Asuka Village
15 km from Nara • Half day to full day
Asuka Village is a historic site with ancient tombs, temples, and ruins, offering a glimpse into Japan's ancient past. It is known as the birthplace of Japanese civilization and the first permanent capital of Japan.
Mount Yoshino
25 km from Nara • Full day
Mount Yoshino is famous for its stunning cherry blossoms in the spring and beautiful autumn foliage. It is also a sacred site with numerous temples and shrines, including the famous Kinpusen-ji Temple.
Osaka
40 km from Nara • Full day
Osaka is a vibrant city with a mix of modern attractions, historic sites, and delicious street food. It offers a diverse range of experiences, from shopping and dining to cultural and historical exploration.
Festivals
Nara Tokae Shogyo Festival • April 1st
Nara Matsuri • October (second weekend)
Shinji-kawase Festival • July 14th-15th
Pro tips
- Visit Todai-ji Temple early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere
- Buy deer crackers (shika senbei) to feed the friendly deer in Nara Park, but be cautious and follow the park's guidelines
- Consider purchasing a Kintetsu Railway Pass for unlimited travel on Kintetsu lines, which can be cost-effective for tourists
- Explore Nara-machi, the old town, for a glimpse into traditional Japanese architecture and local crafts
- Try kakinoha-zushi, a unique Nara delicacy made with sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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