Guided Tour of Todai ji and Nara Park
Nara
Discover Todai-ji's Great Buddha, panoramic views at Nigatsu-do, mystical Kasuga Taisha, serene Ukimido, and historic Kofuku-ji in Nara Park.
Duration: 5 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Todai-ji Temple - The Todaiji of Nara is a journey through history and Buddhist spirituality. Noted for its Great Bronze Daibutsu Buddha and imposing architecture, the temple is a symbol of human greatness and perseverance. By exploring its expansive grounds and walking among the majestic buildings, visitors can experience the serenity and beauty of this sacred site, while learning about its cultural and historical significance in the Japanese Buddhist religion.
  • Nigatsu-do Temple - Nigatsu-do in Nara offers a unique spiritual experience. Located in the Todaiji complex, this temple stands out for its beautiful architecture and its connection with Buddhist ascetic practice. Visitors can take in stunning views of Nara from its elevated position and explore its halls filled with history and devotion. With annual events such as the Omizutori, a purification ceremony, Nigatsu-do offers a window into Japanese religious traditions and culture.
  • Tamukeyama Hachimangu Shrine - A visit to Tamukeyama Hachimangu in Nara is an immersion in Japan’s rich Shinto tradition. This sanctuary, surrounded by majestic trees and serene paths, invites visitors to connect with nature and spirituality. With its distinctive architecture and sacred rituals, the shrine offers a unique experience for those seeking to explore the beliefs and practices of Japanese Shintoism. From quiet contemplation to participation in local festivals, Tamukeyama Hachimangu provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in Japan’s rich history and religious culture.
  • Kasuga Grand Shrine - Kasuga-taisha in Nara is a journey into the ancient spirituality and natural beauty of Japan. This shrine, dedicated to the Shinto deity Kasuga, is famous for its thousands of stone lanterns and lush tree-lined paths. By exploring its sacred grounds and ornate buildings, visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history and traditions of Shintoism. With traditional rituals and seasonal festivals, Kasuga-taisha offers a unique cultural experience that reveals the deep connection between humanity and the divine in Japanese culture.
  • Nara Park - Nara Park, located in the city of Nara, Japan, is an iconic destination that combines natural beauty with fascinating cultural history. Home to hundreds of sika deer, which are considered messengers of the gods in Shinto mythology, the park offers the unique opportunity to interact with these sacred animals in a tranquil, wooded setting. In addition to the deer, the park is home to several notable temples and shrines, such as the Todaiji and the Kasuga-taisha, which reflect the region’s rich religious heritage. Visitors can enjoy serene walks among ancient trees, discover ancient monuments, and experience the deep connection between nature and Japanese culture in this beautiful park.
  • Ukimido - The Ukimido, or 浮見堂 in Japanese, is a small pavilion located in Nara Park, Japan. Also known as the “Floating Pavilion”, it is located next to the Sagiike pond, which is part of the park’s landscape. The current building is a modern reconstruction, but maintains the traditional style of Japanese architecture. From the Ukimido, visitors can enjoy a serene view of the pond and its surroundings, including the surrounding vegetation and often the presence of sika deer, which are emblematic of Nara Park. It is a popular place for walking and relaxing, as well as taking photographs, especially during the sakura (cherry blossom) season in spring.
  • Kofuku-ji Temple - Kōfuku-ji is an important Buddhist temple located in Nara, Japan, which has a history dating back to the 7th century. Initially founded in 669 AD, it was one of the so-called “Nanto Shichi Daiji”, the seven great temples of Nanto (the southern region of the capital). It is an important site for both Buddhism and Japanese history, having been a center of teaching and devotion for over thirteen hundred years.

The temple is dedicated to the Buddhist deity of medicine, Yakushi Nyorai. In addition to its religious significance, Kōfuku-ji is a testament to Japanese Buddhist architecture and art, with several notable buildings and structures in its complex, including the Five-Story Pavilion and the Three-Story Pagoda, which are emblematic of Nara. . These buildings house numerous works of art and cultural treasures, including Buddhist sculptures and ceremonial objects.

What's Included
  • Entrance to the Todai-ji
Additional Information

We begin our adventure in Todai-ji, where the imposing Great Buddha and the majestic architecture amaze us. Then, at Nigatsu-do, we enjoyed panoramic views of Nara and the beautiful cherry blossoms. We continue to Kasuga Taisha Shrine, with its mystical stone lanterns and enchanted forests, before relaxing in Ukimido, surrounded by serenity and divine deer. We conclude at Kofuku-ji, exploring its five-story pagoda and ancient gardens, immersing ourselves in Nara’s rich history.

  • Activity that involves some physical effort. The tour is done entirely on foot. It is not possible to do the tour with a baby stroller or wheelchair.
Location
Kintetsu-Nara Station
Upon arrival at Kintetsu Nara Station, follow the station instructions to get to Exit 5. The exits at the stations are indicated on yellow signs. The guide will be waiting right at the exit, on the sidewalk. In front of the shop labeled "SANKO".
Cancellation Policy

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

Select Date and Tickets
up to 12 guests
1 Adult
June 2024
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