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162 Available Tour Excursions in Nara Prefecture
**Important Notice**If you need to change the participation date or number of participants after making a reservation, please cancel your original booking and place a new one. Changes made without canceling the original reservation will not be accepted. Discover the wonders of Nara on this immersive tour, visiting two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Todaiji Temple, with its impressive Nandaimon Gate and the iconic Great Buddha Hall, and the serene Kasuga Taisha Shrine, known for its beautiful main shrine. Experience the breathtaking views from the summit of Mt. Wakakusa, a grass-covered mountain offering a panoramic vista that will leave you in awe. Our expert English-speaking guide will lead you throughout the day, providing insightful commentary and stories about these historical sites. As a special bonus, you will receive a “Nara-Yamatoji 2-Day Pass,” which allows unlimited rides on local buses within the designated area, along with an exclusive original handkerchief.
Price: $65.15
Duration: 4 hours
Discover the best of Nara on our PRIVATE morning tour, before the popular spots get crowded! Meet the friendly deer, admire Japan’s largest Great Buddha at Todai-ji Temple, and enjoy a sake tasting to experience local flavors. Explore Japan’s first capital in a fun, relaxed, and efficient way — perfect for a half-day trip from Kyoto or Osaka!
Price: $162.88
Duration: 4-6 hours
1. Authentic Experience Unlike standard sushi classes, this experience covers every step, from preparing rice to crafting perfect nigiri. You’ll use authentic tools and techniques under the guidance of skilled instructors. 2. Cultural Insight Learn not only how to make sushi but also its cultural significance in Japan. It’s more than a cooking class—it’s an exploration of tradition. 3. Personalized Instruction With small group sizes, you’ll receive guidance tailored to your skill level, whether you’re a beginner or experienced. 4. Hands-On Fun Grate fresh wasabi, slice sushi-grade fish, and assemble sushi in an engaging, interactive environment. 5. Graduation Ceremony Celebrate your achievements with a fun graduation ceremony and a certificate of completion. 6. Take-Home Skills Learn techniques and recipes to make sushi at home, impressing friends and family. 7. Unique Setting Held in the heart of Japan, this class offers an unforgettable cultural experience.
Price: $114.67
Duration: 1 hours
Soy sauce is an indispensable ingredient in Japanese food. After touring a genuine soy sauce brewery with a history of more than 100 years, visitors will enjoy a hands-on experience of pressing soy sauce from moromi, the base of soy sauce, using a traditional wooden press. Finish by attaching your own label to the bottle. You will taste the freshly pressed soy sauce, which has not been heated, with fresh tofu on the spot. [Highlights of the Experience] Experience at a natural-brewed soy sauce shop that has been in continuous operation for three generations since 1918. You will also have a chance to try your hand at squeezing soy sauce by hand using our original squeezer. The squeezed soy sauce is then packaged in bottles and decorated. The squeezed soy sauce is then filled into bottles and decorated to create your own personalized soy sauce. Mitarashi dumplings with an original sauce made from Tokusei soy sauce in collaboration with a popular local store of long standing.
Price: $78.18
Duration: 2 hours
Kyoto is a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and well preserved traditional Japanese culture. Your tours are designed to help visitors explore and appreciate the beauty of Kyoto while enjoying a fun and memorable experience. As Kyoto’s famous landmarks are spread out often requiring extensive walking, navigating hills, and locating hidden spots a private tour by car offers a more comfortable and efficient way to explore the city. Led by your knowledgeable guide, Riku, and organized by a dynamic young team, this tour is dedicated to creating unforgettable memories for every guest. For tours departing from Kyoto, we will visit Kinkakuji Temple, Arashiyama, Gion, and Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. For tours departing from Osaka, the itinerary includes Kinkakuji Temple, Arashiyama, and Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. For the Kyoto & Nara Tour, we typically visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, Todaiji Temple, Nara Park, and Arashiyama (Bamboo Grove).
Price: $480.00
Duration: 8 hours
Taste five expertly selected teas locally sourced in Nara prefecture Talk with locals for inside tips on places to visit while in Japan Private, one-on-one instruction from a skilled tea master Hands-on matcha practice with personalized feedback Enjoy authentic wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets)
Price: $62.55
Duration: 1 hours
Japan traces its cultural identity back to ancient Asuka. Join this guided cycling tour to dive into its rich history and explore local historical gems. Discover the mysteries of ancient kofun burial mounds and other significant sites with a knowledgeable and friendly guide.
Price: $84.70
Duration: 3 hours
We offer sake tours in Nara, the birthplace of sake, where you can experience its historical brewing and culture. Accompanied by a sake-loving guide, you can interact with locals, enjoy local sake and cuisine, and have the special experience of toasting in front of World Heritage sites. We promise you an unforgettable journey, fully immersing you in the charm of Nara.
Price: $104.24
Duration: 3 hours
Embark on a half-day tour of Nara’s rich heritage. Visit two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and interact with the sacred wild deer of Nara Park, believed to be divine messengers for over 1,200 years. Your tour starts with Kofuku-ji Temple, known for its five-story pagoda, then continues to Todai-ji Temple, where you’ll see the awe-inspiring Great Buddha statue. Your guide will share stories about these historic sites and Japanese Buddhism. Next, enjoy panoramic views from Nigetsu-do Temple, and walk to Kasuga Taisha Shrine, famous for its lanterns and deer. After exploring Nara Park, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. End the tour with a visit to a traditional old town, contrasting modern Tokyo, and see a merchant’s house to experience Nara’s past. This tour offers a unique mix of culture, nature, and history in Nara.
Price: $221.52
Duration: 5 hours
The ancient capital of Nara, older than even Kyoto, is easily reached by train from Osaka or Kyoto. The enormous Main Hall of Todai-ji Temple with its Great Buddha inside, the deer park where you can feed crackers to the semi-wild deer, everything is more laid-back and quieter than Kyoto with much fewer tourists. Stroll through the vast temple grounds and back into the city where the tour takes you to a typical Izakaya standing bar to try some local sake and food. A wonderful way to spend a leisurely afternoon!
Price: $86.49
Duration: 4 hours
This tour is recommended for those visiting Nara for the first time, and allows you to fully enjoy the charm of Nara in one day. This tour is a greedy plan that goes around all famous tourist spots in Nara City, such as Todaiji Temple, famous for the Great Buddha, and a historic shrine Kasuga Taisha, in addition to Kofukuji and Naramachi. It condenses various genres such as history, culture, and food, and is definitely a great satisfaction. If you want to spend the best day in Nara, please join this tour! [Standard tour visit spot] ・ Kofuku-ji Temple ・ Toadai-ji Temple ・ Todaiji Temple Nigatsudo ・ Kasuga Taisha Shrine [Customized tour selectable spot] Kofuku-ji Temple / Todai-ji Temple / Nigatsu-do Hall / Kasuga Taisha Shrine / Nara Park / Tamukeyama Hachimangu Shrine / Naramachi District / Shin-Yakushi-ji Temple / Isuien & Neiraku Museum / Toshodai-ji Temple / Heijo Palace Site Historical Park / Wakakusa-yama Hill / Yakushi-ji Temple
Price: $97.73
Duration: 6 hours
Discover Yoshinoyama, one of Japan’s most famous cherry blossom spots located in the southern part of Nara Prefecture. Covered with 30,000 blooming cherry trees in spring, this mountain offers an elegant landscape cherished since ancient times. Explore the sacred connection between nature and culture as you walk along historic paths once loved by emperors and poets. ・Walk an 8 km mountain path through scenic Yoshino, filled with 30,000 cherry trees in full bloom ・Learn about the rich history and cultural significance of Yoshino from a knowledgeable local guide ・Explore the sacred sites and ancient trails cherished since the Asuka and Nara periods 【Please note that the cherry blossoms only bloom between March and April.】
Price: $136.82
Duration: 5 hours
This bike tour is based on our most popular tour, Nara Highlights, but without Yoshikien Garden and reserved for families with kids who can ride a bike. No E-bike nor Child seats are available. As it is a private family tour, you can be sure that your guide will take extra care of your group, and adjust and adapt the tour based on your preferences. Pour la demande de guide francophone: Nous ne pouvons pas garantir la francophonie pour un tour partagée, car mélangeant plusieurs nationalités, la priorité deviendra l'anglais. Tous nos guides parlent au minimum anglais et japonais, ce qui veut dire que le français sera une langue supplémentaire. Le guide pourra donc alterner entre anglais et français si nécessaire. Pour garantir la disponibilité du guide francophone à la date souhaitée, veuillez nous contacter à l'avance, afin que nous puissions confirmer qu'un guide francophone est toujours disponible pour votre date de réservation. Merci pour votre compréhension.
Price: $195.46
Duration: 3-4 hours
Experience the essence of Kyoto in one day with this all-inclusive bus tour covering the city’s most iconic sights. Begin at Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering bamboo creates a calm, magical atmosphere. Continue to the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji)—a stunning gold-covered temple beside a reflective pond (entry with ticket only). Visit Nijo Castle and explore its elegant rooms, lush gardens, and famous “nightingale floors” (ticket required). Head to Kiyomizu-dera, perched on a hillside with sweeping views of Kyoto and charming nearby shops (entry with ticket only). Finish at Fushimi Inari Shrine, where thousands of red torii gates lead you through peaceful forest trails. Highlights: ✓ Top Kyoto landmarks in one day ✓ Entry options available (based on ticket purchase) ✓ Comfortable, scenic bus transport ✓ Perfect for first-time visitors
Price: $553.80
Duration: 8 hours
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.
Price: $117.88
Duration: 6 hours
Nara's charm is not only deers but also its traditional country lifestyle, which has been inherited from generations to generations.Half a day off-the-beaten walk to an oldest road "Yamanobe no michi" will lead you to deep cultural understanding on satoyama villages. You will come across small farm stands and people's life.
Price: $97.73
Duration: 8 hours
Immerse yourself in a traditional Japanese house ┗ Savor the serene, tranquil setting that creates a truly special atmosphere. Taste two types of Nara single-origin matcha ┗ Compare flavors and aromas, and discover your personal favorite. Witness the tea master’s demonstration ┗ Observe expert skill and hospitality firsthand as the tea master prepares matcha. Learn tea ceremony basics ┗ Explore its history, etiquette, and the proper use of tea utensils. Whisk your own matcha ┗ Get hands-on experience using a bamboo whisk (chasen) to prepare matcha yourself. Blend focus and relaxation ┗ Find a perfect balance of concentration and calm as you create your own cup of matcha.
Price: $46.91
Duration: 1 hours
Start your exploration at Nara Park. Here you can have the experience of feeding rice crackers to deer. Deer are considered messengers of the gods in Shinto beliefs, and hundreds of them roam freely here. Then visit Kasuga Taisha, a shrine known for its deep historical roots and surrounded by a mysterious forest where divine spirits are believed to reside. The shrine is famous for its thousands of hanging lanterns, which illuminate the streets with their serene light, especially during festivals. Also you can visit to Todaiji Temple, which is one of heritage site. It is a most famous temple in Nara, not only allows visitors to see with their own eyes one of the world's largest wooden structures, designated as a national treasure, but also to feel its 1,300 years of history.
Price: $71.67
Duration: 3 hours
Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: JPY
- Languages: Japanese, English (commonly spoken by tourists)
- Climate: Humid subtropical
- Timezone: Asia/Tokyo
- Population: Approximately 1.3 million people
- Best Time to Visit: times to visit are spring and autumn for comfortable weather and scenic beauty.
- Visa Requirements Visitors from many countries, including the US, EU, and UK, can enter Japan visa-free for short stays (typically up to 90 days) for tourism. Some travelers may require an e-visa or visa on arrival depending on nationality. A valid passport, return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds are generally required.
About Nara Prefecture
Nara Prefecture, located in Japan’s Kansai region, is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. As the ancient capital of Japan, Nara is home to some of the country’s oldest and most significant temples and shrines, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. Visitors are enchanted by the serene atmosphere of places like Todai-ji Temple, which houses the giant Great Buddha statue, and the picturesque Nara Park, where hundreds of friendly deer roam freely. The prefecture’s compact size makes it ideal for day trips or short stays, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in traditional Japanese culture, explore historic streets, and enjoy seasonal festivals. Nara’s peaceful landscapes, combined with its cultural treasures, provide a compelling reason for tourists seeking an authentic and tranquil Japanese experience beyond the bustling cities.
Nara Prefecture Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of Kansai
- Duration Range: 2-8 hours
- Group Size: Flexible group sizes
- Difficulty Level: Beginner to Advanced
- Recommended For: The best times to visit are spring and autumn for comfortable weather and scenic beauty. Pack comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. Respect local customs such as bowing and removing shoes when entering temples. Carry cash as some places do not accept cards. Stay aware of deer behavior in parks—they are friendly but can be assertive when expecting food. Learning a few basic Japanese phrases enhances the experience.
Average Tour Price: $95
Lowest Price Tour: $55
Highest Price Tour: $250
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Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Top Attractions
1. Todai-ji Temple – Famous for the Daibutsu (Great Buddha), this massive wooden temple is a symbol of Nara and a must-see cultural landmark. 2. Nara Park – A large park known for its freely roaming deer, which are considered sacred and friendly to visitors. 3. Kasuga Taisha Shrine – Renowned for its thousands of stone and bronze lanterns, this Shinto shrine offers a mystical ambiance. 4. Kofuku-ji Temple – A historic temple complex with a five-story pagoda that is an iconic part of Nara’s skyline. 5. Yoshikien Garden – A tranquil Japanese garden near Nara Park, perfect for experiencing traditional landscaping and seasonal beauty.
Popular Activities
Visitors can feed and interact with the deer in Nara Park, explore ancient temples and shrines, participate in traditional tea ceremonies, and hike scenic trails around Mount Wakakusa. Cultural workshops such as calligraphy and kimono wearing are also popular. Seasonal festivals and markets provide lively local experiences. Photography, nature walks, and visiting museums round out the activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Nara’s cuisine features local specialties such as kakinoha-zushi (sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves), narazuke (vegetables pickled in sake lees), and locally brewed sake. Traditional Japanese meals with seasonal ingredients are common. Must-try foods include mochi rice cakes and fresh tofu dishes. Noteworthy restaurants include those near Nara Park offering traditional kaiseki meals and casual eateries serving soba noodles and tempura.
Getting Around
Nara is accessible by train from major cities like Kyoto and Osaka, with frequent and efficient rail connections. Local buses and taxis serve the prefecture well for sightseeing. Walking and cycling are also popular in central areas. Transportation costs are moderate, with various rail passes available for tourists. The compact nature of Nara makes public transit convenient and sufficient for most visitors.
Travel Tips
The best times to visit are spring and autumn for comfortable weather and scenic beauty. Pack comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. Respect local customs such as bowing and removing shoes when entering temples. Carry cash as some places do not accept cards. Stay aware of deer behavior in parks—they are friendly but can be assertive when expecting food. Learning a few basic Japanese phrases enhances the experience.
Culture & Customs
Nara’s culture is deeply rooted in its historical and religious heritage. Visitors should show respect at temples and shrines by following etiquette such as cleansing hands before entry and maintaining quiet. Festivals like the Omizutori ceremony at Todai-ji are significant cultural events. Social customs include polite greetings, punctuality, and modest dress. Gift-giving and bowing are important traditions.
About The Author
Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.
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Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.
Dislikes
Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..