Nara City Tour

Be charmed by the ancient capital on this Nara day trip. Explore famous landmarks such as the 8th-century Todai-ji Temple and quiet back roads brimming with atmosphere, for a glimpse of Japan’s incredible heritage.

Area

Kyoto & Around

Type

Art & Architecture

Grade

Luxurious

Who

Adults

Older Kids

Difficulty

Leisurely

Duration

1-2 Hours

Set off from the hotel with a local guide, hitting the streets of this charming city in the morning to make the most of the day. Start with a visit to Isui Garden, one of Nara’s most beautiful gardens. Stroll around the immaculate grounds, admiring views of Mt. Wakakusayama in the background while hearing about the city’s history. Relax and enjoy a cup of tea and some local sweets at a teahouse set amid the garden.

Then walk onwards to Todaiji Temple, Nara’s landmark. The guide will explain the history of this 8th century monument which was built to serve as the country’s head Buddhist temple. Walk through the temple compound to enter Daibutsu-den building, the largest wooden building in the world, and admire the 15-metre tall Buddha image found inside.

Continue to Nara Park, where friendly deer casually graze, followed by a stroll through Nara’s backstreets. Pass local shops and traditional houses, gaining a better appreciation for the blend of old and new that defines so many towns in Japan.

Arrive at Kasuga Taisha, Nara’s most sacred Shinto shrine. See the shrine’s famous bronze and stone lanterns that hang from the roof, donated to the shrine by its devotees. Although only lit during lantern festivals in February and August, they are still an impressive site.

Before departing Nara, take a walk through the Naramachi district. The streets of this former merchant neighbourhood are filled with restaurants, cafes, boutique stores and traditional inns. Many of the shopfronts are built in the traditional machiya style, which helps provide the district its unique atmosphere.

Wrap up the Nara day trip with a transfer to the train station, hopping on board for the return journey to Osaka or Kyoto.

Recommended Hotels Nearby

A selection of luxury hotel options in the area, handpicked and recommended by our travel specialists.

The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto

The property has an excellent location on the Kamogawa River, close to Kyoto’s downtown areas including Gion and Kawaramachi-dori and is one of the city's most desired abodes. Guest rooms offer stunning views of the river and the Higashiyama Mountains.

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HOTEL THE MITSUI

Combining Kyoto’s cultural heritage with contemporary design, this serene hotel stands on the site of the former Mitsui family residence. With a strolling garden, tranquil ceremonial room and thermal spa, this is where old Japan meets modern elegance.

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Hyatt Regency Kyoto

Located close to the centre of Kyoto, a pleasant walk from the famous Geisha Gion district and opposite the Kyoto National Museum, the luxury Hyatt Regency Kyoto is a great base from which to explore the cultural heart of Japan.

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Conrad Osaka

The Conrad Osaka is a glossy, ultramodern hotel offering its guests comfort and fantastic city views from almost every space in one of Osaka’s iconic buildings.

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Hoshinoya Kyoto

Stay at a romantic riverside hotel, with Japanese architecture, a meditative green setting, and a ryokan lifestyle, accessed by a peaceful private boat journey. Offering the ultimate in seclusion and tranquillity, Kyoto is just 15-minutes away.

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Aman Kyoto

Inspired by the traditional ryokan and onsen it has been thoughtfully designed making it one of Japan’s most luxurious hotels.

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Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto

A luxurious addition to Kyoto, the Four Seasons Kyoto offers spacious, contemporary accommodation with a Japanese flare in the historical heart of Kyoto. Enjoy the sites of this former Imperial city during the day before returning to this Japanese haven.

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The Celestine Kyoto Gion

The Celestine Kyoto offers guests a truly authentic experience showcasing the best of Japanese hospitality and unique experiences within the ancient city of Kyoto. The Celestine has a fantastic location facing Yasaka Doori avenue in the heart of Gion.

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The Thousand Kyoto

Experience the epitome of Kyoto hospitality with a warm welcome and personalised stay at The Thousand Kyoto, a bold new luxury hotel located in the heart of central Kyoto.

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Geraleine Yap

I don't know where yet Specialist

Seeing snow for the first time at age five was pure magic, and it sparked my lifelong love for travel. Since then, I’ve made it a personal goal to explore at least one new country every year. I’ve been fortunate to experience many dream adventures: chasing the Northern Lights and snowmobiling in Iceland, spotting wildlife in South Africa, climbing Tiger’s Nest in Bhutan, learning the art of winemaking in Italy, and even catching a glimpse of a Geisha in Japan. As someone who loves food, I enjoy discovering local cuisines, flavors, and the stories behind them. For me, travel isn’t just about visiting places - it’s about tasting, feeling, and truly experiencing the world.

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