• Osaka - Meet the tour conductor at either Shinsaibashi or Umeda DT Tower, and embark on a journey in a luxurious private vehicle for a 1-hour drive from Osaka to Nara Park.
• Todai-ji Temple - Constructed during the Nara period to promote national peace, Todaiji Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, part of the “Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara.” It houses the Great Buddha of Nara in the Great Buddha Hall, one of the world’s largest wooden buildings. Originally completed in 751 and rebuilt after fires, the current hall dates back to 1709. Experience the vastness, history, and spiritual significance of this remarkable space.
• Nara Park - Adjacent to Todaiji Temple, Nara Park is a vast area featuring historic temples and ponds, where deer roam freely. Its scenic beauty, which changes with the seasons, makes it one of Nara’s most iconic attractions.
• Todai-ji Temple Nandai Gate - Approach The Great South Gate, or Nandaimon, the main entrance to Todai-ji Temple, and admire its grandeur. Standing at about 25.5 meters tall, the Nandaimon gate is a massive structure, and the Ni-o guardian statues housed within are a sight to behold. Walk through this impressive gate to see the magnificent large wooden Ni-o statues.
• Yumekaze Plaza - Arrive at Nara Park and disembark with the tour conductor at Yumekaze Plaza.
• Naramachi - This area was spared from wartime destruction, preserving the traditional townscape of old Nara. Many historic townhouses have been stylishly transformed into galleries, restaurants, and shops, blending history with modern charm.
• Naramachi Townhouse of Traditional Lifestyle - Built in 1917 by an antique dealer, this townhouse (with a storehouse from the Edo period) features impressive spatial design, including a tea room, a spacious 15-tatami room, a gold-leaf-covered Buddhist altar room, and sliding door paintings. It is a vibrant spot in Naramachi, showcasing the charm of a townhouse that reflects the four seasons and lifestyle culture, themed around the 24 solar terms. (Registered Tangible Cultural Property)
• Goryojinja Shrine - Founded by Emperor Kanmu’s decree in the early Heian period (800), this shrine honors Princess Inoue and her son, Prince Oto, who were wrongfully accused and imprisoned during the Nara period. They are enshrined as the guardian deities of Nara town.

To the left, past the South Gate, is Shusse Inari Shrine, known for matchmaking blessings. Visitors often tie red strings at the lion statues’ feet by the South Gate, praying for love, prosperity, or to stop runaways. Seasonal flowers like cherry blossoms and peonies bloom here, and the intricately crafted seasonal goshuin stamps are a popular attraction.

• Naramachi Koshino Ie - This facility replicates the townhouses from the end of the Edo period through the Meiji era. It features a narrow width and long depth, known as an eel’s bed. The stairs to the second floor are designed as a “box staircase” for efficient space use, providing storage. Learn about the latticework’s functionality, acting like a half-mirror for privacy, and the courtyard and dirt floor’s light sources for ventilation and lighting. Experience past life and savor the atmosphere here.
• Osaka - After exploring Nara, board the private vehicle for a return trip to Osaka, where you will be dropped off at your original pick-up point.

• Bottled water
• On-board WiFi
• Entrance fees
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• Parking fees

• Lunch
• Tips for guide/driver are optional

Explorer Tours offers luxurious and comfortable small group tours, accommodating up to 11 passengers per vehicle. Our tour guides accompany guests to each location and provide assistance throughout the journey to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. All entry fees listed in the itinerary are included in the tour price. Unlike large bus tours, we provide a more personalized and relaxed travel experience with attentive service.

This tour explores Nara’s renowned World Heritage area, historic temples, and Nara Park, and includes a traditional stroll through the Naramachi district, where guests can appreciate the old-town scenery, local culture, and the delightful atmosphere of traditional streets.

• We do not offer additional pick-up & drop-off services.
• The tour is not customizable.
• Not recommended for travelers who cannot walk long distances. This tour involves walking.
• Due to weather and traffic conditions, the schedule may change.
• If you select “I’ll decide later” for the meeting point, please message us on Viator.

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