See Naras Must Sees by Private Car with Guide
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Nara Highlights with Licensed Guide-Driver
Explore Nara’s icons in one seamless, great-value day—guided and driven by a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter operating legally as both guide and driver under Japan’s new system. Meet the deer in Nara Park, marvel at Tōdai-ji’s Great Buddha, feel the hush of Kasuga Taisha, step back at the Heijō Palace Site, and admire Yakushi-ji.
Sample route: Heijō Palace Site → Nara Park → Tōdai-ji Great Buddha Hall → Kasuga Taisha → Yakushi-ji
Why this tour?
Better value for price: vehicle cost bundled into the guide fee—often far less than standard hire cars.
Licensed expertise: engaging commentary, UNESCO history brought to life.
Door-to-door ease: Kyoto pickup/drop-off on request.
Flexible: pacing, lunch stops, and extra photo spots.
Good to know
Full-day (6.5h) private tour in a comfortable vehicle; itinerary tailored to season, crowd levels, and your interests.
Available options
See Naras Must Sees by Private Car with Guide
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Private Tour
Necessary expenses for the tour guide
Tour Guide
Fuel surcharge
Parking Fees
Detailed itinerary
1
Step into Japan’s first great capital. Founded in 710, Heijō-kyō shaped the nation’s politics, culture, and city design. Stroll the grand axis from Suzaku Gate to the restored Daigokuden Hall and picture the emperor’s court in the Inner Palace. Wide lawns, museum treasures, and open skies let you breathe in 1,300 years of history—without the crowds.
2
Stop 2
Nara Park is home to 1,000+ free-roaming deer, revered as “messengers of the gods.” Friendly and curious, they’ll even bow when you offer shika-senbei (deer crackers) sold in the park—perfect for unforgettable photos.
3
Stop 3
Tōdai-ji’s Great Buddha Hall, raised in the 8th century, remains one of the world’s largest wooden buildings—home to the 15-meter Great Buddha. Though fires led to smaller rebuilds, its scale still stuns. At Nandaimon Gate, colossal Niō guardians by Unkei and Kaikei (13th c.) stand watch in dynamic detail.
4
Stop 4
Kasuga Taisha, founded about 1,300 years ago as Heijō-kyō’s guardian, prayed for the peace of the imperial house and served as the Fujiwara clan’s tutelary shrine. Stroll avenues of stone and bronze lanterns and feel the shrine’s solemn beauty. Nara Park’s deer are revered here as divine messengers.
5
Stop 5
Yakushi-ji, founded in the 7th century, is one of Japan’s oldest temples. Its East Five-Storied Pagoda miraculously survived fires that claimed most other buildings and is a treasured cultural icon. With careful restorations, the precinct now revives the original temple layout you can walk and admire.
What's not included
food/drinks, souvenirs and extra activities for your own
Travel expenses and entrance fees for your own
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Nara
Nara, Japan's first permanent capital, is a city steeped in history and culture. Known for its ancient temples, friendly deer, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Nara offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The city's well-preserved heritage sites and serene landscapes make it a must-visit destination in Japan.
Top Attractions
Todai-ji Temple
Todai-ji Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan's most famous and historically significant temples. It houses the Great Buddha Hall, which contains a giant bronze Buddha statue.
Historical/Religious
2-3 hours
600 JPY (5.50 USD)
Nara Park
Nara Park is famous for its friendly deer, which are considered sacred in Shinto tradition. The park is also home to several important temples and shrines.
Nature/Cultural
1-2 hours
Free (200 JPY for deer crackers)
Kasuga Taisha Shrine
Kasuga Taisha is a famous Shinto shrine with a history dating back to 768 AD. It is known for its many lanterns, which are donated by worshippers.
Religious/Cultural
1-2 hours
Free (500 JPY for the Botanical Garden)
Kofuku-ji Temple
Kofuku-ji Temple was once one of the most powerful and influential temples in Japan. It is known for its pagoda and museum, which houses many important artifacts.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
300 JPY (Museum) (3 USD)
Nara National Museum
Nara National Museum is dedicated to the art and history of Nara and its temples. It houses a collection of Buddhist sculptures, paintings, and other artifacts.
Museum
1-2 hours
620 JPY (5.50 USD)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kakinoha-zushi
A type of sushi where vinegared rice and fish are wrapped in persimmon leaves, giving it a unique flavor and aroma.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish
Nara zuiki
A traditional Nara dish made with chicken, mushrooms, and vegetables cooked in a sweet soy-based sauce.
Dinner
Contains chicken
Nara pickles
A variety of pickled vegetables, including radish, eggplant, and cucumber, known for their unique flavors and textures.
Snack/Side
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in Nara Park
Biking around the city
Tea ceremony
Onsen (hot spring) visit
Temple visits
Traditional crafts workshops
Winter illuminations at temples and shrines
Deer feeding in Nara Park
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (October to November)
These seasons offer pleasant weather and are ideal for outdoor activities. Spring brings cherry blossoms, while autumn features beautiful fall foliage.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
GMT+9
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Nara is a very safe city with low crime rates. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious of deer in Nara Park, as they can be aggressive when looking for food
- • Avoid walking alone in poorly lit or deserted areas at night
Getting there
By air
- Kansai International Airport • 50 km (31 miles)
- Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 35 km (22 miles)
By train
Nara Station
By bus
Nara Station, Kintetsu Nara Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is efficient and covers most major attractions. Day passes are available for frequent travelers.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Nakasenbon
Zakuracho
Sanjo-dori
Day trips
Osaka
40 km (25 miles) • Half day to full day
Osaka is a vibrant city known for its food, shopping, and nightlife. It offers a mix of modern attractions and historic sites.
Kyoto
40 km (25 miles) • Full day
Kyoto is a city rich in history and culture, with numerous temples, shrines, and gardens. It's known for its traditional tea houses, geisha districts, and historic streets.
Ise
80 km (50 miles) • Full day
Ise is home to the Ise Grand Shrine, one of Shinto's holiest sites. The city offers a serene and spiritual experience, with beautiful forests and traditional architecture.
Festivals
Nara Matsuri • April 25-26
Lantern Festival at Kasuga Taisha • February 3-4
Pro tips
- Visit Todai-ji Temple early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more serene experience.
- Buy deer crackers to feed the deer in Nara Park, but be cautious and follow the rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable interaction.
- Consider staying in a ryokan for a unique cultural experience, complete with traditional tatami rooms, onsen (hot springs), and kaiseki meals.
- Explore Nara-machi, the historic district, for a glimpse into the city's past and to shop for local crafts and souvenirs.
- Use an IC card like ICOCA for easy payments on public transportation, buses, and some shops and vending machines.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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