Full Day Nara Deer, Temple, Shrine, Activities & Tea Ceremony

Nara, JP
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (5 reviews)
Self-guided

Included

  • inclusion
    Other
    Bilingual Local guide
  • inclusion
    Other
    Deer Cookies to share
  • inclusion
    Other
    Introduction to Japanese Cutlery history
  • inclusion
    Other
    Tea Ceremony Fee (Matcha & Wagashi Included)
  • inclusion
    Other
    Gangoji Temple Entrance Fee
  • inclusion
    Other
    Todaiji Temple Entrance Fee

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Other
    Food and Drinks
  • exclusion
    Lunch
    Lunch
  • exclusion
    Other
    Shopping & Souvenirs

Meeting Point

Meet at the 7-11 Convenience Store across the street from the Kintetsu Nara Station Fountain.

Meeting point

30-1 Higashimuki Kitamachi, Nara, 630-8214 , Japan

End point

End Point

Meet at the 7-11 Convenience Store across the street from the Kintetsu Nara Station Fountain.

Meeting point

30-1 Higashimuki Kitamachi, Nara, 630-8214 , Japan

End point

What to expect

1

Todai-ji Namdaimon (Grand South Gate)

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Admire the Great Southern Gate, the symbol of the Todaiji Temple domain. Admire the two fierce guardians of the gate and enjoy the beauty of its unique architecture.

Duration 35 minutes
2

Todai-ji Temple

Explore the Todaiji Temple on your own, providing free time inside for a more personal exploration, and learn about its history. Visit the temple where is located the biggest bronze Buddha statue in the country, the "Daibutsuden", and get a chance to go through the Buddha's nostril.

Duration 50 minutes
Admission Admission Included
3

Kikuichimonjushirokanenaga honten

Visit the original shop of the prestigious knife maker company Kikuichi. Receive an introduction to Japanese cutlery, as well as advice on Japanese knives, if needed. Former Katana maker, there is no better place to get Japanese knives, directly from the manufacturer.

Duration 35 minutes
4

Kasuga Taisha

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Visit the ancient Shrine "Kasuga Taisha" and learn about its spirit, the spirit of Kasuga, which can be described as the spirit of Nature, but also a general introduction to Shinto. Admire the beautiful Lantern path, and get the opportunity to make a wish at the Shinto shrine and connect with the spirit.

Duration 40 minutes
5
Nara Park

Walk through the park of Nara and witness the harmony between the city and the deer, following your local guide to get the best route possible.

6
Higashimuki Shopping Street

Go back to the West side of Nara Park, and get 45 minutes of free time to have lunch around the famous "Higashimuki Shopping Street", and meet your guide back at a preset meeting location for the second part of the tour. The lunch budget is not included.

Duration 45 minutes
7

Nara Visitor Center & Inn

Craft Activities - Origami/Calligraphy/Photoshoot Discover the traditional art of Calligraphy and origami. Create a deer origami, and write your name in Katakana or Kanji. Both practices allow you to go home with a handmade souvenir. OPTION If time allows, kimono and costumes are available for you to try, and take some fun/memorable pictures of your day in Nara.

Duration 60 minutes
Admission Admission Included
8
Gango-ji Temple

Explore Gangoji Temple, one of the 5 World Heritage Sites in Nara, and one of Nara's seven great temples. Being technically the oldest temple in Japan still standing, learn about its history, and listen to the very unusual and scary story of the Demon of Gangoji. Go inside for a preset time and explore the site freely before meeting your guide back outside.

Duration 45 minutes
Admission Admission Included
9

Shofukutei

Visit a traditional cafe, welcomed by a tea master and her husband. Get away from the crowded tourist spots, and experience a true matcha green tea ceremony led by a certified tea master, with a traditional handmade "Wagashi" included (Japanese sweet).

Duration 60 minutes
Admission Admission Included

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Provided by Japan Tour Adventure

What our experts say

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    Try local lunch at Higashimuki Street.
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    Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
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    Don't miss the deer at Nara Park!
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    Bring a camera for the kimono photoshoot.
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    Visit nearby shops for unique souvenirs.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Embark on a full-day immersive experience in Nara, Japan, with the Full Day Nara Deer, Temple, Shrine, Activities & Tea Ceremony tour. This walking tour offers a unique blend of exploring iconic landmarks like Nara Park and Todaiji Temple, as well as off-the-beaten-path gems such as the original shop of renowned Knifemaker "Kikuichi" and the Kasuga Taisha Shrine.

What to expect?

Participants can anticipate a day filled with cultural activities, including an introduction to Origami, the "Deer Challenge", and Calligraphy. If time permits, guests can even don traditional Kimonos or various costumes for a memorable photoshoot. The tour also includes a visit to the historic Gangoji Temple, where travelers will hear the intriguing origin story of the demon of Gangoji.

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a comprehensive and authentic experience in Nara. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or simply someone who enjoys immersing themselves in local traditions, this tour offers something for everyone. From learning about Japanese cutlery history to indulging in a traditional Tea Ceremony, there's something to captivate every visitor.

Why book this?

Step off the beaten path and delve into the heart of Nara with this all-encompassing tour. Led by a bilingual local guide, guests will not only visit iconic sites but also engage in hands-on cultural activities. The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the Tea Ceremony, where participants can savor freshly made matcha green tea and traditional Wagashi, all in an authentic setting away from tourist crowds.

Good to know

Inclusions for this tour comprise a bilingual local guide, cultural activities, Deer Cookies, an introduction to Japanese Cutlery history, Tea Ceremony fee (including Matcha & Wagashi), Gangoji Temple entrance fee, and Todaiji Temple entrance fee. Exclusions are limited to food and drinks, shopping, souvenirs, and lunch. The meeting point is conveniently located across from the Kintetsu Nara Station Fountain.

Reviews

Travelers who have experienced this tour rave about the immersive cultural activities, knowledgeable guides, and the unforgettable Tea Ceremony experience. Many guests appreciate the blend of iconic landmarks and hidden gems, making it a must-do for anyone visiting Nara. Overall, participants have left glowing reviews, highlighting the tour's depth and authenticity.

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