From Osaka: Private Nara Tour with a National Licensed Guide

Higashimuki Shopping Street is a lively shopping street located right near Kintetsu Nara Station. It is lined with local specialties, souvenir shops, long-established Japanese confectionery stores, and cozy cafés, allowing visitors to enjoy an atmosphere that truly feels like Nara.

Kōfuku-ji Temple is known as a symbol of Japan’s Buddhist culture. With a history spanning more than 1,300 years, its architecture and Buddhist statues embody the essence of Japanese art and faith. Within the temple grounds, there are numerous buildings and statues designated as National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties.

Nara Park is a charming place where Japan’s history and nature come to life. Here, you can enjoy a luxurious moment spending time with deer while feeling the spirit of the ancient capital of Nara. Nara Park is home to several historic buildings that are part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a precious place where you can experience Japanese culture and the spirit of Buddhism. Another highlight of Nara Park is, without a doubt, the famous Nara deer. Living in harmony with nature, the deer roam freely around the park, delighting visitors with their presence. When you offer them shika senbei (deer crackers), they may respond with adorable gestures, creating a heartwarming experience—especially memorable for international tourists. Nara Park is a harmonious blend of the atmosphere of Japan’s ancient capital and the beauty of nature, offering unforgettable experiences for visitors from around the world.

Himuro Shrine is an ancient shrine located near the entrance of Nara Park and is dedicated to the deity of ice. It is a quiet and beautiful place where visitors can feel the changing of the seasons in a serene atmosphere.

Tōdai-ji Temple is an iconic symbol of Nara and a place filled with mysterious charm for international visitors. The Great Buddha Hall is one of the largest wooden structures in the world, and its grandeur overwhelms all who see it. The immense scale and beauty of this building, constructed by ancient artisans over centuries, offer a precious opportunity to experience the precision of Japanese architecture and the depth of its traditions. There are also many highlights within the Tōdai-ji grounds. Elegant gardens and impressive Buddhist statues create a space where history and beauty coexist. In particular, the Great Buddha of Tōdai-ji has long captivated people with its power and magnificence. Seeing its dignified presence up close will surely deepen your understanding of and appreciation for Japan’s Buddhist culture and artistic heritage.

Yoshikien Garden is a traditional Japanese garden located in a quiet corner of Nara Park. It consists of three distinct gardens: a pond stroll garden, a moss garden, and a tea flower garden, each offering beautiful scenery in every season. It is a hidden gem with few visitors, making it a perfect place to enjoy a peaceful and relaxing time.