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Offered languages
- English
Nara city is rapidly gaining popularity as a tourist destination. As the capital of Japan in the 8th century, it can offer a variety of old temples and shrines, but also the charm of its former merchants’ quarter with quaint old houses serving as shops or restaurants. In this tour we will visit the biggest and most famous temple and shrine dating back to the 8th century as well as the old townscape.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Just outside the ticket gates
Itinerary
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1
The large and peaceful forest around Kasuga Grand Shrine is very relaxing, and it is fun observing the deer peeking from behind the many stone lanterns. The vermillion of the shrine pillars and the green of the surrounding forest make a great combination. The numerous lanterns hanging from the shrine eaves are a great spot to take a picture.
45 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
Although they can be seen anywhere in Nara, the area around Todaiji Temple is where you can definitely meet with the famous Nara deer. They can be fed with special deer crackers, but don't forget that these are semi-wild animals. Your guide can also tell you why there are so many free-roaming deer in Nara.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3
Todai-ji Temple is a must when in Nara. The long approach to the main hall with the 800-year-old Southern Gate and the deer waiting to be fed can’t be found anywhere else in the world. Once inside the temple walls, the huge main hall comes into view. Its sheer size is awe inspiring, although it’s said to be only two thirds of the original building. The Great Buddha flanked by two attendants has also enormous dimensions and almost bankrupted the state when it was made.
1 hour • Admission ticket included -
4
In the hot summer days the nobles used to eat shaved ice to cool down as far back as the 8th century! There is even a shrine dedicated to the deity of ice in Nara city. The shaved ice desserts are a feast. Of course there also other delicious sweets, and for those preferring to taste some local sake, there is a great sake brewery in the old part of town.
45 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5
Situated in Naramachi, a historic district within Nara, is this merchant’s house. Built in the traditional Japanese style it gives you an idea of what daily life was like back then. Besides the gorgeous tatami mat rooms you can also have a look at the earthen cooking stoves and the bath.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
6
Enjoy some sake tasting or a traditional Japanese sweet while taking in the sights of the old merchant town.
45 minutes • Admission ticket included
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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