Nara Highlights Half-Day Tour: Temple & Local Cuisine
Active
5h
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
Touch the feet of the National Treasure Eleven-Faced Kannon at Hasedera Temple, hear monks blowing conch shells, savor Nara sushi bento in a cozy historic house, and witness artisans restoring Buddhist art up close. Free shuttle included.
●Hasedera Temple
Step inside Hasedera Temple’s main hall (normally closed to the public) and touch the feet of the National Treasure Eleven-Faced Kannon — a rare experience.
●Lunch
Enjoy a traditional lunch in a restored Japanese house, featuring Nara’s famous kakinoha sushi, colorful chirashi sushi, and seasonal sweets.
●restoring Buddhist art and sculpture up close
Visit a restoration center where artisans preserve ancient Buddhist art, offering a unique look at Japan’s craftsmanship.
Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families who want to discover Nara’s sacred sites, authentic food, and hidden traditions — all in just half a day!
Available options
JR Nara Station West Exit
Hotel Obana
Starting point:<br/>Hotel Obana, 1110 Takabatakechō, Nara, 630-8301, Japan
NOVOTEL Nara
Starting point:<br/>Novotel Nara, Omiya Cho, 7-chōme-1-45 Ōmiyachō, Nara, 630-8115, Japan
What's included
Touching the Buddha’s Feet Experience
Pickup service between destinations and fixed locations. Comfortable, air-conditioned shuttle bus included as part of the free round-trip transportation service from Nara City.
WiFi on board
In-person Guide: English
Hasedera temple
Local Sushi Bento For vegetarians, a traditional local somen noodle dish — light, refreshing, and plant-based — is available upon request. Please select your preference at the time of booking.
Detailed itinerary
1
At Hase-dera, one of Nara’s most sacred temples, you’ll enjoy a rare opportunity to touch the feet of the hidden Eleven-Faced Kannon statue — a deeply spiritual and unforgettable moment. Your guide will also lead you to the best spot at the right time to hear the monks blow their sacred conch shells, an atmospheric sound that few visitors get to experience.
2
For lunch, savor Nara’s famous kakinoha sushi (sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves), colorful chirashi sushi. The meal is served in a beautifully restored traditional house, where the peaceful atmosphere perfectly complements the flavors. Relax and enjoy an authentic taste of Nara in an elegant, historic setting.
3
Visit a cultural restoration center where skilled artisans work to preserve ancient Buddhist statues, paintings, and treasures. Watching this delicate process up close offers a rare chance to appreciate the craftsmanship, dedication, and spirit that keep Japan’s cultural heritage alive for future generations.
What's not included
Gratuities
Large Baggage Handling: We are unable to store suitcases or large backpacks.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
2 reviews
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Please wait at the "West Exit" of JR Nara Station, where you'll find a rotary with taxi and bus stops. Nearby landmarks include Hotel Nikko Nara and the Silkia Nara shopping mall. Our staff will meet you there wearing a black jacket with a logo on the chest.
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
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Free cancellation available
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![[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)
