• Todai-ji Nandaimon (Grand South Gate) - Marvel at the Great Southern Gate, a symbol of the Todaiji Temple area. Appreciate the two formidable guardians of the gate and enjoy the beauty of its distinctive architecture.
• Todai-ji Temple - Discover the Todaiji Temple at your own pace, allowing for personal exploration and learning about its rich history. Visit the temple housing the largest bronze Buddha statue in the country, the “Daibutsuden,” and experience the unique opportunity to pass through the Buddha’s nostril.
• Kikuichimonjushirokanenaga Honten - Explore the original store of the renowned knife maker, Kikuichi. Receive an introduction to Japanese cutlery and, if needed, guidance on Japanese knives. As a former Katana maker, this is the ideal place to acquire Japanese knives directly from the manufacturer.
• Kasuga Taisha Shrine - Visit the historic Kasuga Taisha Shrine and learn about its essence, the spirit of Kasuga, which embodies the spirit of Nature and offers a general introduction to Shinto. Admire the stunning Lantern path and take the opportunity to make a wish at the Shinto shrine, connecting with the spirit.
• Nara Park - Stroll through Nara Park and observe the harmony between the city and the deer, guided by a local expert to ensure the best possible route.
• Naramachi - Immerse yourself in the charming backstreets of Naramachi, where time seems to slow and daily life continues as it has for generations. This guided tour takes you beyond the main tourist paths into one of Nara’s most genuine and well-preserved neighborhoods, largely untouched by mass tourism. As you wander through narrow lanes lined with traditional wooden townhouses (machiya), you’ll gain insight into the architectural creativity and lifestyle of the merchant families who once thrived here. This experience goes beyond mere observation, offering natural opportunities to connect with the people who keep Naramachi vibrant today. You might find yourself in a small, family-run shop where the owner shares stories of their craft or exchanging words with a local artisan restoring antique goods.
• Gango-ji Temple - Visit Gangoji Temple, one of the five World Heritage Sites in Nara and one of Nara’s seven great temples. As the oldest temple in Japan still standing, learn about its history and hear the unusual and eerie tale of the Demon of Gangoji. Explore the site freely during a designated time before rejoining your guide outside.
• Shofukutei - Experience a traditional cafe, warmly welcomed by a tea master and her husband. Escape the crowded tourist areas and enjoy an authentic matcha green tea ceremony led by a certified tea master, complete with a traditional handmade “Wagashi” (Japanese sweet).

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

• Food and Drinks
• Lunch
• Shopping & Souvenirs

This is a WALKING TOUR.

On this tour, you will explore the best of what Nara has to offer, including the most famous sites, such as Nara Park, and Todaiji Temple, but also some “Off the beaten path” places, such as the original shop of the former Katana maker and actual famous Knifemaker “Kikuichi”, and the Kasuga Taisha Shrine.
Continue with cultural activities, including an introduction to Origami, the “Deer Challenge”, and Calligraphy. If time allows it, you can wear a Kimono and/or a variety of costumes/outfits and go for a memorable photoshoot.
Explore the site of the oldest temple in Japan, Gangoji Temple, and listen to the scary origin story of the demon of Gangoji.
Finally, go to a traditional Japanese cafe to experience a true Tea Ceremony led by a certified Tea Master, away from the crowded and overpriced tourist traps, with freshly made matcha green tea, right in front of you, and a traditional handmade “Wagashi”, a Japanese sweet for Tea.

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