Explore Nara’s temples and culture with a local expert. Enjoy a personalized, flexible tour from Osaka, tailored to your interests.
Explore Nara’s temples and culture with a local expert. Enjoy a personalized, flexible tour from Osaka, tailored to your interests.
- Osaka Station City Information - Start your adventure with a train journey from Osaka to Nara. Upon arrival, proceed directly to Todai-ji Temple. The journey from Osaka or Namba Station to Nara takes approximately an hour.
- Nara Park - Discover the enchantment of Nara Park, home to hundreds of freely roaming deer, considered sacred messengers…
- Osaka Station City Information - Start your adventure with a train journey from Osaka to Nara. Upon arrival, proceed directly to Todai-ji Temple. The journey from Osaka or Namba Station to Nara takes approximately an hour.
- Nara Park - Discover the enchantment of Nara Park, home to hundreds of freely roaming deer, considered sacred messengers of the gods in local folklore. Stroll peacefully among these gentle creatures and enjoy feeding them special deer cookies available nearby. Known for their surprising tameness and charming bows, the deer provide a truly unique and memorable experience.
As the journey continues toward Todai-ji Temple, enjoy views of the tranquil Kasugayama Primeval Forest—a protected ancient woodland that adds a serene, natural backdrop to your visit. This glimpse of lush forest enhances Nara’s timeless atmosphere, blending nature, spirituality, and tradition into one unforgettable experience.
- Todaiji Temple Cultural Center - Explore the monumental Great Buddha and the serene Kasuga-Taisha Shrine, renowned for its iconic lanterns.
- Nigatsu-do Temple - Nigatsudo Hall is situated on the grounds of Todai-ji Temple, about a 10-minute uphill walk from the Great Buddha Hall (Daibutsuden). From its corridor, enjoy a breathtaking view overlooking the Nara Basin. Nigatsudo is also celebrated for the annual Omizutori ceremony in March—a traditional fire and water ritual that attracts visitors from all over.
- Todai-ji Hokkedo (Sangatsudo, March Hall) - Sangatsudo Hall is the oldest building at Todai-ji, dating back to around AD 740–747. Its name is derived from the Lotus Sutra, which is recited here every March. Inside, discover a stunning row of 10 Buddhist statues from the Nara period, including the main Fuku-Honsaku Kannon statue. Many of these exquisite works are national treasures, offering a rare glimpse into Japan’s ancient spiritual art and history.
Visiting Sangatsudo is like stepping back in time, where history, faith, and artistry beautifully converge.
- Nara - Enjoy lunch near Todai-ji Temple at Yumekaze Square, where local Yamato ramen made with Nara’s famous pork can be savored. This cozy spot offers authentic flavors perfect for refueling. Please note that if there are other lunch preferences, the menu can be easily adjusted to suit your tastes.
- Isuien Garden - A quintessential example of traditional Japanese landscaping that invites relaxation and reflection.
- Kasugataisha Shrine - Established in 768 AD by the influential Fujiwara clan to pray for the capital’s protection and the nation’s prosperity, Kasuga Taisha remains a symbol of ancient power and sacred tradition. Its approach winds through a quiet path lined with over 2,000 stone lanterns leading up to the shrine, joined by 1,000 bronze lanterns hanging in the cloistered halls. During the enchanting Mantōrō festivals in February and August, all 3,000 lanterns glow in unison—creating a breathtaking, mystical scene. The stylized vermilion buildings stand beneath the canopy of Kasugayama Primeval Forest, a preserved sacred woodland where deer roam freely—still revered as divine messengers of the gods.
- Nara Machi Center - Step back in time while exploring Naramachi, the charming old town of Nara. Wander through narrow streets lined with traditional wooden buildings, and visit a beautifully renovated historic house that now serves as a museum, offering a glimpse of life in centuries past. If desired, a stop at a local sake brewery can be arranged to learn about the brewing process and taste a sample. There is also time to browse small local shops offering crafts, sweets, and unique souvenirs not found elsewhere.
- Nakatanidou - Nakatanidō is a cherished mochi shop in Nara, renowned for its freshly made, soft, and chewy mochi. Known for long lines and quick sellouts, their mochi is a local favorite that visitors shouldn’t miss. Please note, the shop is closed on Tuesdays and may close irregularly. If it’s closed during your visit, other delicious local sweets will be enjoyed instead.
- Kintetsu Nara Station General Tourist Information Center - At the end of the tour, the group will head together to either Kintetsu Nara Station or JR Nara Station, depending on what’s most convenient. From there, the train will be taken back to Osaka, completing a memorable day in Nara.

- Admission fees
- Guided tour with personal commentary throughout the day
- Admission fees
- Guided tour with personal commentary throughout the day
- Lunch
- Public transportation (bus, subway, cable car, etc.)
- Lunch
- Public transportation (bus, subway, cable car, etc.)
Guests frequently commend the personal attention and adaptability the operator provides on each tour. Whether it’s making spontaneous adjustments or expertly navigating train systems and shopping stops, the operator is dedicated to ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.
With extensive local expertise, the operator shares captivating stories about…
Guests frequently commend the personal attention and adaptability the operator provides on each tour. Whether it’s making spontaneous adjustments or expertly navigating train systems and shopping stops, the operator is dedicated to ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.
With extensive local expertise, the operator shares captivating stories about Nara’s temples, shrines, and culture, customizing the day to suit individual interests. Many guests express that the tour surpassed their expectations due to the operator’s kindness, attentiveness, and genuine enthusiasm for showcasing this beautiful city.
Join the operator for a personalized, relaxed journey that feels more like exploring with a trusted local friend than a typical tour.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.