Nara Private Custom Walking Tour

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

• 1

  Todaiji Temple is one of Nara’s most iconic World Heritage sites, representing Japan’s rich history and Buddhist culture. Founded in 752, it is home to the Great Buddha, a majestic 15-meter-tall statue housed in one of the world’s largest wooden structures. The temple complex also features scenic halls like Nigatsudo and Sangatsudo, offering breathtaking views in every season. As part of the UNESCO-listed "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara," Todaiji remains a place of deep spiritual significance, attracting visitors from around the world. The admission fee is 800 yen.

  1 hour • Admission ticket not included
• 2

  Nara Park is a scenic destination where nature and history blend beautifully. Home to around 1,000 freely roaming deer, it offers unique close encounters with these friendly animals. The park also features World Heritage sites like Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Taisha, with stunning views in every season.

  30 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 3

  Kasuga Taisha, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has over 1,300 years of history. Dedicated to the Fujiwara clan’s deity, its vibrant vermilion shrine and 3,000 stone and bronze lanterns create a mystical atmosphere. Surrounded by sacred forests, it offers stunning seasonal beauty. The admission fee is 700 yen.

  30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
• 4

  Heijo Palace Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was the political and cultural center of Japan during the Nara Period (710–784). The reconstructed Suzaku Gate and Audience Hall showcase the grandeur of the ancient capital. The vast site offers a glimpse into Japan’s early history and imperial heritage.

  30 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 5

  Naramachi is a historic district that preserves the charm of old Nara with its traditional townhouses and narrow streets. Once a merchant quarter, it now features museums, cafés, and craft shops. Visitors can explore well-preserved machiya houses and experience the town’s rich cultural heritage.

  30 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 6

  Mount Wakakusa offers panoramic views of Nara, including Nara Park and the city. Known for its grassy slopes, it’s popular for hiking, especially during the annual Wakakusa Yamayaki (mountain burning) festival. The mountain also provides a peaceful retreat into nature, with seasonal beauty throughout the year. The admission fee is 150 yen.

  30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
• 7

  Isuien Garden is a traditional Japanese garden in Nara, renowned for its serene beauty. The garden features a blend of ponds, teahouses, and lush greenery, offering peaceful views of Mount Wakakusa. Visitors can enjoy strolling through the meticulously designed landscape, experiencing the harmony of nature and design. The admission fee is 1200 yen.

  30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
• 8

  Nara National Museum is a renowned cultural institution showcasing Japan's rich history and art. It houses an impressive collection of Buddhist artifacts, ancient sculptures, and historical treasures. The museum offers insightful exhibits that explore the spiritual and cultural heritage of Nara and Japan. The admission fee is 2200 yen.

  1 hour • Admission ticket not included
• 9

  Kofukuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was once a powerful temple of the Fujiwara clan. Its iconic five-story pagoda, one of Japan’s tallest, stands as a symbol of Nara. The temple complex features stunning Buddhist statues, including the famous Ashura statue, offering a deep cultural and historical experience. The admission fee is 900 yen.

  30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
• 10

  Higashimuki Shopping Street is a lively and bustling area in Nara, offering a variety of traditional shops, eateries, and souvenirs. Located near Kintetsu Nara Station, it’s a great spot to experience the local culture, sample Nara’s famous mochi, and shop for unique handmade goods.

  30 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 11

  Yakushiji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of Japan’s most significant Buddhist temples. Founded in the 7th century, it is known for its beautiful architecture, including the iconic East and West Pagodas. The temple enshrines the Medicine Buddha, symbolizing healing and protection, and offers a serene atmosphere for reflection. The admission fee is 1000 yen.

  30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
• 12

  Gangoji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the oldest temples in Nara, dating back to the 6th century. It is renowned for its historical significance as the first head temple of the Buddhist Shingon sect in Japan. The temple features a beautiful array of ancient artifacts, including the distinctive octagonal "kondo" hall. The admission fee is 700 yen.

  30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
• 13

  Toshodai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was founded in the 8th century by the Chinese monk Ganjin. It is renowned for its stunning architecture, including the main hall (Kondo) and the iconic Great Gate (Sanmon). The temple houses invaluable cultural treasures, representing Japan’s rich Buddhist heritage and international connections during the Tang Dynasty. The admission fee is 1000 yen.

  30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
• 14

  Imanishi Seibei Shoten is a historic Nara brewery famous for "Harushika" sake. Using high-quality rice and pure water, it produces refined, aromatic sake. Visitors can enjoy tastings of its smooth and elegant brews. The tasting fee is 700 yen.

  30 minutes • Admission ticket not included

Additional info

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• This itinerary involves walking throughout the day, so it may not be suitable for those who are not confident in their walking ability or for wheelchair users.

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