Nara, Todaiji, Kasuga Taisha Shrine Private Full-Day Tour in Kyoto

Home to ancient temples, tranquil gardens, and the iconic deer of Nara Park, Nara offers a serene yet culturally rich experience. On this private full-day tour from Kyoto, explore the highlights of this historic city with an expert guide by your side.

Highlights

• Embark on a full-day tour to the historic city of Nara
• Discover the cultural significance of landmarks with a knowledgeable guide
• Interact with the friendly, free-roaming deer of Nara Park
• Visit Todaiji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site housing Japan’s Great Buddha
• Admire the beauty of Kasuga Taisha Shrine, surrounded by hundreds of lanterns
• Explore Naramachi, a well-preserved district of traditional Edo-period merchant homes

Full Description

Begin your journey by meeting your guide at JR Kyoto Station and boarding the express train to Nara. Your day starts with a walk past the Gyoki Statue and a visit to Kofukuji Temple, where you’ll learn about the establishment of Nara as Japan’s imperial capital.

Next, head to Nara Park, a scenic area home to over 1,000 sacred Sika deer that roam freely. Enjoy photo opportunities and experience this spiritual symbol of the region before moving on to Todaiji Temple.

At Todaiji, one of Japan’s most important temples, marvel at the massive bronze statue of Buddha (Daibutsu)—one of the largest in the country. After exploring the temple grounds, enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch at Kotoya Restaurant featuring local Nara specialties.

In the afternoon, explore Kasuga Taisha, a picturesque Shinto shrine decorated with thousands of stone and bronze lanterns, nestled in a wooded setting. End the day with a peaceful walk through Naramachi, a charming neighborhood filled with narrow lanes and preserved wooden townhouses from the Edo period.

Itinerary

Starting Location:
7-Eleven Heart-In – JR Kyoto Station Central Entrance

• Train to Nara (1 hour)
• Kofukuji Temple – Guided tour (30 minutes)
• Nara Park – Visit and walk (15 minutes)
• Todaiji Temple – Guided tour (1 hour)
• Lunch at a local restaurant (1 hour, optional, extra fee)
• Kasuga Taisha Shrine – Guided tour (1 hour)
• Naramachi – Visit and stroll (1 hour)
• Train back to Kyoto (1 hour)

End Location:
7-Eleven Heart-In – JR Kyoto Station Central Entrance

Pricing

From ¥28,376 per person

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Includes

• English-speaking tour guide
• Entrance fees to temples and shrines
• Snacks

Note: Lunch cost is not included.

Meeting Point

Kyoto Station – Central Entrance (7-Eleven Heart-In)
Look for a guide wearing a TripGuru shirt or holding a TripGuru sign. Your guide will assist you in purchasing the train ticket to Nara on the day of the tour.

Address:
Japan, 〒600-8212 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, Higashishiokojicho

Reviews

“Gustavo was an excellent guide. He knows everything, and his explanations were clear and interesting. He also helped us with any questions we had about Nara and Japan. Highly recommended experience!”

Features

• Certified Staff
• English-Speaking Staff
• Expert Guide
• General Amenities
• Group-Friendly
• In-Person Consultation
• Online Booking
• Services

Location