First Time Nara Tour UNESCO Sites with Lunch and Autumn foliage

Nara , Japan

First Time Nara Tour UNESCO Sites with Lunch and Autumn foliage

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This 4-hour small-group walking tour is perfect for first-time visitors to Nara, combining UNESCO World Heritage sites with a delicious lunch.

In Nara, wild deer are revered as sacred messengers and roam freely through the city.

・Enjoy a tasty lunch and admission to all shrines included.
・Half-day guided walking tour of Nara with lunch and admission tickets included
・Visit UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Tōdai-ji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and Kōfuku-ji Temple
・Small-group tour (maximum 7 participants) for a more personal experience
・Efficiently visit Nara’s most famous temples in just a few hours

Available options

First Time Nara Tour UNESCO Sites with Lunch and Autumn foliage

What's included

Professional English-speaking tour guide

Up to 1,200 yen

One pack of crackers for feeding the deer

Admission fees to all temples and shrines visited

Detailed itinerary

Kōfuku-ji Temple boasts a history of over 1,300 years. Within its grounds are masterpieces of Japanese Buddhist art, including the National Treasure Five-Story Pagoda, the Central Golden Hall, and the National Treasure Hall famous for its Ashura statue. The 50-meter-tall pagoda is especially notable as the second tallest wooden pagoda in Japan, after Tō-ji Temple in Kyoto. Adjacent to Nara Park, where deer roam freely among the scenery of all four seasons, Kōfuku-ji offers a unique space where history, nature, and culture blend seamlessly.

Stop 2

Tōdai-ji, founded in 752 as the head temple of all Buddhist temples in Japan, is one of the country’s most celebrated landmarks. Passing through the Great South Gate, visitors are greeted by towering 8-meter-tall guardian statues before reaching the Daibutsuden Hall, once the world’s largest wooden building. Inside sits the Great Buddha, a 15-meter bronze statue of immense grace and presence. Surrounded by vast temple grounds and freely roaming deer from Nara Park, Tōdai-ji offers an awe-inspiring blend of history, culture, and nature—an essential stop in Nara.

Stop 3

Kasuga Taisha, a UNESCO World Heritage site founded in 768 as the shrine of the powerful Fujiwara clan, is one of Nara’s most iconic landmarks. Its grounds are lined with about 3,000 stone and bronze lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere during the Mantōrō lantern festival. The vivid vermilion shrine buildings, built in the distinctive “Kasuga-zukuri” style, blend beautifully with the surrounding sacred forest. Closely connected to Nara Park’s deer—regarded as divine messengers—Kasuga Taisha offers a serene blend of history, nature, and spirituality, making it a must-visit in Nara.

Stop 4

Nara Park, established in 1880, is a vast green space in the heart of Nara. Over 1,000 wild deer roam freely throughout the grounds, revered as sacred messengers since ancient times. A beloved sight is watching them bow when offered special deer crackers. The park also delights visitors with its seasonal beauty—cherry blossoms in spring, vibrant foliage in autumn, and serene winter landscapes. Offering history, nature, and close encounters with wildlife all in one place, Nara Park is a highlight of any visit to the city.

Naramachi offers a unique blend of history and modern charm, with streets lined by Edo-period townhouses. Visitors can tour preserved machiya to glimpse the life of past merchants, wander narrow lanes filled with cafés, boutiques, and galleries, and enjoy local experiences like watching high-speed mochi pounding, tasting fluffy shaved ice, or savoring seasonal Japanese sweets. With craft workshops and small artisan shops, every stroll through Naramachi reveals new flavors, traditions, and treasures to discover.

What's not included

Transportation fees

Additional food and drinks from street vendors (purchasable at your own expense)

Private vehicle

Other personal expenses

Beverages (including alcoholic drinks) served with lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

"Gyoki Bosatsu Statue – 10:00 AM
In front of the Gyoki Bosatsu Statue, located right outside Kintetsu Nara Station Exit 2 or the East Exit.
Please come to Kintetsu Nara Station, not JR Nara Station.
It takes about 10 minutes to get from JR Nara Station to Kintetsu Nara Station."

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.