Private Tour of Nara with Todaiji Deer and Kasuga Taisha

6 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English and 1 more

Discover Nara quietly and flexibly on this private 6-hour walking tour with a local guide. Unlike large group tours, this experience suits your interests and your pace. Visit Nara Park, Tōdai-ji Temple, Nigatsu-dō Hall, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Ukimido Pavilion and the historic district of Naramachi as you discover Buddhism, Shinto, Japanese history, deer culture, traditional architecture and local life. This tour is ideal for those who want to know Nara in a more personal, authentic and enriching way.

What's Included

Entrance to the Great Hall of the Great Buddha of Tōdai-ji Temple (600 JPY per person)
Private local guide
Food and drinks
Public transport costs
Personal expenses
Gratuities

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
Kintetsu-Nara Station

The guide will inform them exactly of your dress and send a photo of exactly where you are when you arrive at the meeting point

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 6 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Nara Park

    Participants will tour Nara Park, one of the most emblematic places in the city. During the tour, the guide will explain the cultural importance of deer, how to interact with them safely and why they have become one of the most representative symbols of Nara.

    20 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Todai-ji Temple Nandai Gate

    Participants will visit the Nandaimon Gate, the impressive main gate of the Tōdai-ji Temple. The guide will explain the history of the gate and present the imposing guardian statues that protect the entrance to the temple.

    15 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 3
    Todai-ji Temple

    Participants will enter the Great Buddha Hall of the Tōdai-ji temple and gaze at the famous statue of the Great Buddha. The guide will explain the history of Tōdai-ji, the construction of the Great Buddha and the importance of this temple in the ancient capital of Nara.

    50 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 4

    Participants will stop at the Tōdai-ji Temple Bell Tower, where they will see one of the temple’s historic bells. The guide will explain the role of bells in Buddhism and how this area connects with the wider Tōdai-ji set.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Nigatsu-do Temple

    Participants will visit the Nigatsu-dō Hall, one of the most charming buildings in the Tōdai-ji temple complex. The guide will explain the history of the hall, its relation to the famous Shuni-e ceremony and its importance within Tōdai-ji. In addition, from its wooden terrace you can enjoy a beautiful view of Nara.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 6

    Participants will visit the Ukimido pavilion, a quiet wooden pavilion located above the Sagiike pond in the Nara Park. The guide will introduce this picturesque place and explain how it reflects the natural beauty of Nara. Participants can enjoy the views, take photos and relax by the water.

    20 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 7
    Kasuga Grand Shrine

    Participants will visit the free access areas of Kasuga Taisha Shrine, one of the most important Shinto shrines in Nara. The guide will explain the difference between temples and shrines, the history of Kasuga Taisha and the significance of its numerous stone and bronze lanterns. You can also enjoy the peaceful forest trail that leads to the sanctuary.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 8
    Naramachi

    Participants will explore Naramachi, a historic merchant quarter with traditional houses, local shops and a nostalgic atmosphere. The guide will introduce the local culture, traditional architecture and recommended places to visit or buy unique souvenirs of Nara.

    1 hour 30 minutes Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Supplied by Japan Tours Agency

Tags

Half-day Tours
Private and Luxury
Private Sightseeing Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Food & Drink
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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