The Oldest Capital of Japan

Nara is used to be the capital of Japan. It is even older than Kyoto. This is 8 hours course.

Places we will visit

  • Todaiji Temple
  • Kasuga Taisha Shrine
  • Kofukuji Temple
  • Nara Park
  • Nara Machi

The tour of central Nara, the ancient capital, starts with a visit to Kofuku-ji Temple.  The temple was founded in Nara at the same time as the capital in 710.   When you step into the Nara Park, where Kofuku-ji Temple, Todai-ji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine are located, friendly deer will welcome you and ask for deer crackers.  In Kofuku-ji Temple, you’ll be fascinated by the splendid five-story pagoda that is a landmark of Nara and the second tallest in Japan.

Moving on, we’ll visit Todai-ji Temple which was founded by Emperor Shomu in the 8th century in hopes of achieving peace in the lives of Japanese people.  The magnificent wooden gate that houses a pair of giant Deva Kings on both sides will overwhelm you.  The main hall, reconstructed in the 13th century, is two-thirds of the original hall size, but still the biggest wooden structure in the world.  Inside the hall sits a huge statue of Buddha that will take your breath away.  It is 15 meter tall and the world’s largest gilt bronze statue of the “Universal Buddha”.  The spacious hall filled with the scent of incense stick will make you feel solemn.  After visiting the main hall, we’ll move on to “Nigatsu-do” which offers a magnificent sweeping view of Nara.

Next, we’ll visit Kasuga Taisha Shrine which is the grand head shrine of about 3000 branch Kasuga shrines in Japan. Legend says that the deity of the shrine came here to Mt.Mikasa riding a white deer.  Since then, deer around the shrine that is now Nara Park have been regarded as divine messengers and protected. The contrast between the vermillion lacquered columns of the buildings and the green forest around the shrine will fascinate you.  On the way to the shrine, you’ll see numerous stone lanterns and hanging copper lanterns donated by worshipers.  All the lanterns are lit twice a year in the Lantern Festival held in February and August.  It is a picturesque sight that will enchant you.  In early May, over 200 wisteria trees in full bloom attract many visitors.

The last stop of the tour is Naramachi where several traditional houses and warehouses are well preserved, and you’ll enjoy the atmosphere of old Japanese town.

Some shops have been in business for a few hundreds years.

Price: \35,000 for a group up to 6 people / \40,000 for a group more than 7 people

*This price does not include transportation fees and entrance fees.