Nara Private Tours & Local Tour Guides

“Discovering historic Asuka”

I enjoyed visiting Asuka, which was recently designated a UNESCO World Heritage site and is considered the birthplace of the Japanese nation. It’s a quiet, rural area, with rice fields, little homes and shops along narrow streets, ancient temples, burial mounds, mysterious stone carvings and structures unlike anything I've seen elsewhere in Japan. I particularly appreciated its simple beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Having a knowledgeable guide is a must here, as the significance of many of the sites isn't immediately obvious. Yasu-san brought the history to life in a natural, conversational way, without ever sounding as though he was reciting a textbook. I liked the flexibility to choose the sites I wanted to see, with him thoughtfully organizing the itinerary around my interests. We also visited Hasedera, a beautiful temple that was surprisingly peaceful and uncrowded. Yasu-san is intelligent, articulate, accomplished and professional, yet also friendly, down to earth and easy to talk to. This was my second tour with him, and I would not hesitate to recommend him!

“Nara walking tour”

I was curious about Nara because of the famous deer attacking tourists while trying to feed them, beside want to visit the famous Todai-ji with its great Buddha hall. Akura san explain everything in detail and assure us that the deer won't attack when we feed them because he knows who to do it properly and safely. I was able to feed the deer and amazingly the deer woll bow before taking the food from your hand and bow again to say thank you. After spending some time exploring and admiring the Buddha hall and the giant Buddha image we left for feeding our tummy. Akira san took us to a special place famous for eel at Unagi-ku restaurant. I never tasted eel in my life, but this special way to prepare it make eel so tasty. Overall, this Nara toyr left ne with special impression that what other people said doesn't mean it will happen you.

Akira F.

(108 reviews)

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience! I’m really happy that you enjoyed your day in Nara. The deer in Nara are certainly famous, and sometimes their enthusiasm for deer crackers can surprise visitors! That’s why I always enjoy showing my guests how to interact with them properly and safely. I’m glad you had the chance to experience their famous bows up close — it’s truly one of the most charming and unforgettable moments in Nara. It was also a pleasure to share the magnificent Great Buddha Hall at Todai-ji with you. And I’m especially happy that you enjoyed your first taste of Japanese eel at Unagi-ku! Discovering something new through local food is always one of the best parts of traveling. I love your final reflection: sometimes what we hear about a place doesn’t necessarily reflect what we will experience ourselves. Traveling with an open mind is what makes every journey special. Thank you again for spending your day with me. I hope the memories of Nara, its lovely deer, the Great Buddha, and that delicious eel will stay with you for a long time. I would be delighted to welcome you back to Japan again! Warm regards, Akira

“A Thoughtful and Enjoyable Trip To Nara”

Yasuhisa is an exceptional guide. He is very knowledgeable about the area and temples and allowed us to take our time at each site we visited. Additionally, he offered to add an extra stop at the end of the trip. We enjoyed his easy going personality and would highly recommend Yasuhisa. Thanks for a great day!

Yasuhisa K.

(79 reviews)

Dear James. Thank you very much for your nice review. I was also very happy to be able to accompany with such a nice group. Nara is getting colder but autmun leaves are still not in full season. Yasu