Nara Private Tours &amp; Local Tour Guides

Hi! I had been working for Wakayama Prefectural Government for 38 years, mainly in the field of cultural heritage management and international relations. I am a national certificated English guide and I have a lot of knowledge and experience in the field of cultural heritage management and international relations. I am very good at cultural heritages. And Koyasan and Kumano in Wakayama Prefecture are inscribed in the World Heritage List as parts of “Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range". I was a project manager of "the Koyasan and Kumano World Heritage Inscription Project” at Wakayama Prefectural Government. I know inside and out of Koyasan, Kumano, Wakayama and other places in the Kansai area. I have a lot of experience of guiding as I was also in charge of international relations for a long time at the government. I will be able to provide interpretive guiding service for you around Koyasan, Wakayama, Osaka and other places in the Kansai area as I am a cultural heritage management and international relations professional. I am sure you will be able to get deeper understandings on Japanese culture and that your trip with me will be memorable one.

Koichi W.

4.94 / 5

(49 reviews)

Hi! I'm Koichi. I was born in Osaka, I studied in Kyoto when I was a university student. Now I live in Shiga next to Kyoto. I am a national government licensed tour guide. I have been guiding about 160 groups over the past twelve months. I usually guide my customers mainly in Kansai region including Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Kobe and Shiga by public transportation systems. Well, I am curious about Japanese history, especially the history of Japan's ancient times since I was raised next to the world biggest mausoleum of the ancient Emperor called "Nintoku" in Sakai city Osaka which has just become one of the world cultural heritage sites. I dug out some ancient earthen ware vessels around there when I was a primary school student like the adventure archaeologist “Indiana Jones"　(It’s our secret!!). That was my hobby. Now, one of my hobbies is outdoor activities such as mountaineering, kayaking, skiing and others. So I would like to take you to some good places where you can enjoy Japanese unique nature. I love to guide foreign visitors from all over the world. I think it is my calling or heavenly given job. Let's go and enjoy together! I hope to see you soon.

Yoshihisa T.

4.97 / 5

(185 reviews)

Hi. My name is Yoshihisa. Call me "Yoshie", please. It means good or O.K. in Japanese. I live in Joyo City, Kyoto Prefecture, located just in between Kyoto and Nara. I was born and raised in Iga, Mie Prefecture. Iga is a birthplace of ninja and a renowned haiku poet, Matsuo Basho. I might be a descendant of ninja. I aim at becoming a linguistic ninja, following a part of Basho's lifestyle with the incorporation of seasonal changes into my tours. In addition to visiting famous temples and shrines, I invite you to lesser-known places of historic interest. Once in a month I go hiking or mountain climbing with some friends mainly in mountains surrounding Kyoto and Nara basins. Recently I have got intrigued by the charms of Buddhist statues, which are manifestations of people's wishes and prayers. I also like izakaya (Japanese-style taverns) hopping, tasting delicious dishes and locally brewed sake at reasonable prices. Especially I like communicating with people from home and abroad, talking face to face. Some of the above-mentioned elements are included in my walking tours. I hope you will discover new aspects of cultural and natural beauty in Kansai area through one of my tours which you could never gain otherwise. One of my favorite phrases that come from Zen Buddhism is Ichigo Ichie or this meeting-but only once in a lifetime. My interpretation goes this way: This place and this moment never cross again. Each and every good encounter, however, lingers on like the sound of a temple bell. Won't you explore a deeper world of Japanese culture in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka with me?

Atsuko T.

4.95 / 5

(41 reviews)

Hello. My name is Atsuko.I'm a licensed tour guide in Japan. I have lived in Osaka since I was born. I have guided many tourists all over the world as a volunteer for 6 years. I like showing my tourists my favorite places in Japan and talking with them. Osaka, where I was born and raised, is famous for foods, modern and ancient cultures. Nara and Kyoto, which are neighboring places, were ancient capitals in Japan. I'm happy to visit those places with you.

Makoto Y.

4.96 / 5

(94 reviews)

Hello, I’m Makoto (Mac) and I'm a national-licensed tour guide. My previous career as an automotive engineer, gave me the opportunity to learn English and to live in the US, Germany, and England. After I retired, I learned more about the Japanese history especially focusing on Nara and Kyoto to become a historical specialist of the Nara area. I now live in Ikaruga town in Nara prefecture, where the UNESCO World Heritage, Horyuji temple is located. I regularly offer guides on the Fujinoki tumulus, which is located near the Horyuji temple. It contains very interesting Archaeological findings from the end of the Kofun Period. Recently, there are many foreign tourists who come to Japan, and I hope they enjoy learning about the culture and history of Japan. I would like to help tourists have a broader and deeper understanding of the Japanese culture and that is the reason why I decided to become a tour guide to help and support their experience in Japan. Nara is the place where Japan started. The capital was located in Asuka, Fujiwara and Nara before it moved to Kyoto. Therefore, there are many places to visit in Nara to trace the original history of Japan, which I have a depth of knowledge. Let’s explore the roots of Japan together!!

Yasuhisa K.

4.93 / 5

(14 reviews)

I have worked in the multi-national organizations including UN agency for around 30 years and stationed at various cities including Rome, Bangkok and Hanoi. Although I have retired from those international carriers, I wish to keep the international cooperation and develop the friendship with people who visits our country. As I like history and am practicing Noh song and wood curving of Buddha images, I have decided to live in Nara where is surrounded by many historical places and traditional cultures, when I returned back to Japan in 2017. I wish to offer you custom made trip ideas to be able to enjoy the atmosphere of old city, Nara. I am also planning to develop trip plans to enjoy the local cultures. Please call me Yasu.

Tomoe S.

4.93 / 5

(98 reviews)

Hello! My name is Tomoe. I'm a national licensed guide interpreter(English). I made my page here, TripleLights in October 2018. Thank you for finding me. I was born and grew up in Otsu,Shiga, which is the next city of Kyoto. I graduated from the university in Kyoto and lived there for four years due to my husband's job. I like history and like to visit temples in Nara. My hobby is to plan trips and have visited many cities and towns in Japan and abroad. One of my favorite places is the AIRPORT!! I have enjoyed meeting and guiding people from abroad, to sightseeing spots in my country. I really want many people from abroad to enjoy visiting many places and have wonderful experiences in my country. I'll be really happy if I can have such experiences with you!! Please tell and ask me if there are any places which you want to visit and anything which you want to do in my country. I'll plan the trip only for you. I am cheerful and always positive. I like to talk with people. I would like to talk with many people from many countries. Please tell me about your country, too!! I'm looking forward to seeing you!! * If you want, I will take you back to your hotel (within the time or with the extra hourly rate) Or, I will show you how to go back to your hotel when we finish the tour. * If you want, I will give you some advice about what to and where to eat your lunch/dinner.

Kenji M.

4.73 / 5

(73 reviews)

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Hi I'm Kenji I have a government license of tour guide interpreter in English. I was born and raised in Kyoto, an old capital of Japan over one thousand years So I'm very familiar with many sightseeing spots and attractions of the city Kyoto is a fascinating and picturesque city drawing lots of foreign tourists every year I can show you around not only popular historical sites and relics but also its various attractions such us Zen silent meditation, traditional sweets cooking, kimono-clad walking and so on. I can also provide tailored tours fitting to your liking. I like a famous Zen phrase "Ichigo Ichie" meaning "Treasure every encounter for it will never recur" So I always try to enjoy guiding every tourist with my best hospitality. Zen concepts have greatly influenced many aspects of Japanese culture I will explain some of them and allow you to explore Zen world through some of my tours Please contact me any time. I'm looking forward to seeing you and spending wonderful time with you. See you soon !

New Nara Tour Guides

Reiko N.

Hi, my name is Reiko. Ciao, tutti! Sono Reiko, sono guida turistica autorizzata in Giappone.Possiamo visitare zona Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe e etc.... Potete avere l'esperienza straordinaria con me. Vi aspetto in Giappone. I am National Licensed Guide, Italian language. I speak also English. I know very well, most popular place and nice food.....

Eco H.

Eco has called Kyoto his home for the last 7 years, and now he hopes to share with you all he has learned of this wonderful city and the surrounding area. Recent graduate with a background in Japanese history and religion, he is now a professor a university in nearby Kobe city. Therefore, if you are particularly interested in learning more about the history and culture of Kyoto he can provide exciting narratives to go along with visiting the delightful sites. Throughout his time in Kyoto he has been working as a guide for numerous organisations, including guiding around Japanese tourists visiting Kyoto, and has provided many with a unique view of the city.

Yuta I.

5.00 / 5

(12 reviews)

Hi, my name is Yuta! I want to show you my city Kyoto and its culture, food and history in a funny way! I can speak English and German. I love travelling myself and especially with the help of a local. So I want to become your local Kyoto friend and show you the city how I see it!

Ana I.

5.00 / 5

(9 reviews)

Hello everyone! I am Ana and I am an experienced tour conductor, guiding clients throughout Japan. I am Romanian and have been living in Japan for over 10 years. I am versed in creating customized on-the-budget tours for solo travellers, families or groups. Please allow me to show you the natural beauty, traditions, history and amazing food of KYOTO, NARA and OSAKA. Feel free to contact me for a standard package OR a customized trip. I will put my very best effort into meeting your needs and creating an amazing trip. WELCOME TO JAPAN!

Takashi K.

4.50 / 5

(2 reviews)

This is Takashi Kikuchi, a passionate guide, who is so happy to share my favorite spots of the hidden gems with you. I am sure that you've come across so many highlight tours on the website though, my tours are very powerful in unique temples, arraggeing your custom tour, featured with off-the-beaten path experiecne. Also, it's possible to provide you special walking tours upon your needs and budget. (I can make some inexpensive tours too) Don't hesitate to reach out to me! Thank you

Shuji O.

4.90 / 5

(10 reviews)

Hi, I am Shuji, a licensed tour guide living near Kansai International Airport. I taught world history in high schools for four decades. So, I can explain Japanese culture or history in an easier way tailored to you who have different cultural and historical backgrounds. I also practiced Kendo, Japanese fencing, for more than four decades, and now I enjoy growing vegetables and going fishing. Therefore, I can also share some Japanese culture and its nature. I have traveled to more than 25 countries and all over Japan. I’m also passionate about photography and know many photogenic places in Japan. If you prefer to go off the beaten track, I can take you to hidden gems, including some cozy restaurants. Of course, I also know how to enjoy the crowded, most popular tourist sites. I am here to make your trip stress-free. See you soon!

Tomoya H.

I was born in Osaka, and grown up under nature loving parent, and spent a lot of time on hiking, fishing, camping and skiing in my youth. I have been guiding trekkers from north to south Japan, as well as oversea trails. Even when I'm not at work, enjoy trekking trails in Rokko area which is just by the door. I'm a JMGA (Japan Mountaineering Guides Association) certificated Trekking Guide (stage II), and you'll be enjoying the trail without any issues and worries with me.

Yuki K.

5.00 / 5

(3 reviews)

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Hi, thank you for checking my profile! My name is Yuki. I live in Kyoto. I was born in Wakayama, but have lived in many places in Kansai area. I also have the experience of studying abroad in America for 4 years, so I speak English fluently. As for my hobbies, I like to play the piano, play gymnastics, and read books. I also teach Japanese part time so feel free to ask me any questions about Japanese language too! I'm a friendly person so you can talk to me like your friend. I love talking to people with many different cultural backgrounds and learning new things from them. I think Japan is such a beautiful country and I'm excited to share a little bit of it with you in our tour and contribute to making your day memorable!

Popular Nara Private Tours

Let's enjoy walking around the ancient city called Heijyokyo or Nara established in 710.

Nara is the most ancient city in Japan. You can see one of the most biggest images of Buddha in Japan called"Daibutu-san", and You also see many deer roaming freely around in Nara park. We visit Kasuga-Taisya Shrine ,founded to protect the Heijyokyo, which is also the deity of Fujiwara family is enshrined.

One Day Tour in the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Nara

Nara was once the ancient capital of Japan. There are many historical sites, artefacts, relics, temples and shrines. There is a proof that the capital flourished in the 8th century. Nara is also rich in nature. Mountains, primitive forests and parks enhance the attraction of Nara. This tour includes Kofukuji Temple, Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Shrine, which are World Heritage Sites. We will also visit the Nara Park which is famous for deer. Let's enjoy the tour in Nara together !

One day trip of Nara Park

6 hours

-Nara Park is famous and known as Deer Park, and more than one thousand deer roam freely in the park.-Numerous important temples, shrines, gardens and museums are within minutes of one another within the park.-The most famous sites are Todai-ji temple, Kasuga Grand Shrine, and Kofuku-ji temple.-These temples and shrines were originally built in Nara period, 1,300 years ago.

Your most memorable tour to Nara (Kyoto or Osaka departure)

In Nara deer Park, you can feed many cute wild deers. After playing with deers, you will go to Toudaiji Temple. You can see huge buddaha statue. Next, you will go to kasuga shrine After lunch, you will viist Koufukuji Temple and you can see a five-storied pagoda. Morover, based on your request, I will take you to other spots.

Dear deer Nara! ~Nara Park & Nara-machi~

5 hours

We will visit Nara Park, where historic monuments and nature create calm and peaceful atmosphere. You'll see wild deer roaming hear and there. Walking in Nara-machi district will give us a chance to see an old merchants' townscape.

Nara and Osaka in One Day

In the morning, we will be visiting Nara, the ancient capital city of Japan before Kyoto. In the late afternoon, we will move to Osaka, the vibrant center of Western Japan. You can feel two different faces of Japan, old and new in one day. Experience ancient history during the day and enjoy vibrant commercial atomosphere of the urban life in the late afternoon / early evening.

Explore Ancient Nara with a History & Culture Guide

30 years ago, a great discovery was made on the outskirts of Nara. The excavation team found a rock coffin in the burial mound. Japan's first national history book says, two princes were driven away from the court in those days. The scientific studies revealed that inside the coffin were their bones. What happened to them? This ancient city has a lot of mysteries.

Nara Sightseeing & the World of Buddhist Statuary

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Through this tour you will be intrigued with the charm of Buddhist statuary, which represents people's wishes and prayers. Figures of statues vary according to the development of eras from Asuka period to Muromachi period. At the same time you can

New Nara Private Tours

Nara ～truly the must-see place in Japan～

5 hours

Nara Nara was the capital of ancient Japan before Kyoto became the capital. In the Nara era, Buddhism played an important role in stabilizing the country. So you can see many big old temples there. Many of these are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites and are concentrated in a small area. So, if you have only one free day to spend in the Kansai area, I highly recommend visiting Nara.

Nara History Tour

You can go in blind and simply learn as much as possible about this phenomenal city, where you will be provided with a good encapsulation of the wonders of Nara.

FROM$550/ per group

Eco H.

Nara, the oldest capital in Japan, Walking tour

4 hours

We'll visit Todaiji temple, one of the largest wooden structures in the world, Kasugataisha shrine whose god is believed to have come to Nara riding on a white deer, popular Japanese gardens if you like. We can enjoy pretty plum trees from late February to early March and cherry blossoms in spring. 1300 wild deer are roaming around in Nara park, where you can feed them deer crackers. In June Rokuen, the deer protection center, is open to the public, where mother deer feed their cute newborns.

FROM$129/ per group

Nao O.

Full-Day Nara tour from Kyoto and Uji Green Tea Town

On this tour, we will visit Nara and Uji Green tea Town. Nara was established as the first permanent Japan's capital in the year 710. There are a lot of historical sites, such as Todaiji Great Buddha Hall, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Kofukuji Temple and so on. Nara"deer"park is also one of must-see areas. On our way back to Kyoto, we will hop off at JR Uji Station and visit the Green Tea Town of Uji. If you have time to spare, taste the finest green tea.

A full-day highlights tour of Nara

You can visit famous places in Nara city. This tour is very suitable for couples who wants to travel privately. I will take you places you want to go.

Tour for the East end of Silk Road, Nara

5 hours

Nara has a long history including the site of the first and large scale capital of Japan in 7 century. However, Japan had reached at the status of national unity before 7 century and had started official envoy to Sui Dynasty of China in AD600. Therefore various new technology and culture had been transferred from China through anciant Korea.Tour will therefore explore the sign of influence of China, Persia or even from Greece transferred through the ancient Silk Road.

One day tour in Nara

Highlights of the tour are feeding deers in Nara Park and overwhelmed by the great Budha, Daibutu. Tour also visits several historcal sites. As all historical sites are located in the Nara park, we will mainly walk through the park ( 5~8km ) The tour also can customized in line with the customer's interest, historical sites, cultural sites or shopping.

Demi-journée de Visite à Nara

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4 hours

Ce tour vous amène au temple du Todaiji où reste la grande image de Bouddha depuis le 8ème siècle, au sanctuaire de Kasuga où le vermillon attire l’oeil de beaucoup de gens, au temple du Kohukuji et au Parc de Nara où les touristes se promènent avec des cerfs.

FROM$194/ per group

Tatsuko S.

Popular Nara Private Cars

Nara 1 Day Tour

10 hours

Nara Prefecture is an ancient capital where Heijo-kyo was built during the Nara period. There are many spots and Buddhist statues designated as national treasures and world cultural heritage sites, such as Todaiji and Horyuji. We also recommend visiting Mt. Yoshino for cherry blossoms, Asuka Village, and other spots surrounded by nature.

☆Nara Day Tour with a Private Car

3 hours

Experienced local taxi drivers will cordially show you around the area so that you can visit both must-see and hidden sightseeing spots and enjoy local food.

☆Nara Day Tour with a Private Car

Experienced local taxi drivers will cordially show you around the area so that you can visit both must-see and hidden sightseeing spots and enjoy local food.

☆Nara Day Tour with a Private Car

6 hours

Experienced local taxi drivers will cordially show you around the area so that you can visit both must-see and hidden sightseeing spots and enjoy local food.

☆Nara Day Tour with a Private Car

6 hours

Experienced local taxi drivers will cordially show you around the area so that you can visit both must-see and hidden sightseeing spots and enjoy local food.

☆Nara Day Tour with a Private Car

3 hours

Experienced local taxi drivers will cordially show you around the area so that you can visit both must-see and hidden sightseeing spots and enjoy local food.

☆Day Tour between Nara and Mt. Yoshino with a Private Car

Experienced local taxi drivers will cordially show you around the area so that you can visit both must-see and hidden sightseeing spots and enjoy local food.

☆Day Tour between Nara and Mt. Yoshino with a Private Car

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Experienced local taxi drivers will cordially show you around the area so that you can visit both must-see and hidden sightseeing spots and enjoy local food.

Day Trips from Nara

Kyoto

Osaka

Kobe

Wakayama

Mie

Nara Tour Reviews

Martin N.

5 / 5

Apr 19, 2024

Nara 1 day tour

Customized

Apr 19, 2024

“A very delightful and comprehensive Tour of Nara”

We had a fantastic day with Tomoe-san, who is a very knowledgeable and cheerful guide. Planning the day with her beforehand was simple and she responded very fast to any messages. Tomoe-san's explanations were never tedious, she knew the answers to all the questions we asked, kept a comfortable pace and found a nice place for lunch. Despite the many sights we covered, and the many tourists around, we had a relaxed day as she found ways to beat the crowds and took time to relax in beautiful Isuien Garden. It was great meeting you, Tomoe-san and we truly enjoyed chatting with you about many topics! Domo arrigato gosaimashita!

Tomoe S.

(98 reviews)

Dear Martin, Thank you very much for such a warmhearted review. I'm happy to hear that you enjoyed a day in Nara. It was a really fun time for me, too, to talk with you, such a nice couple. I was impressed that you and your friends have studied and know a lot about Japanese culture. Thank you very much for giving me such a precious meeting. I would love to see you again. TOMOE

Alev O.

5 / 5

Apr 15, 2024

Tour of two ancient capitals

Customized

Apr 15, 2024

“Two cities in one day ”

Huri-sun was nice and friendly.We covered Nara and Arashimaya in one day.

Tatsuhiro N.

(46 reviews)

Hi Alev-san, Thank you very much for your favorable comment. I am glad you people enjoyed the tour today under the fine spring weather. Your story as the World Bank official was interesting. I hope you will enjoy your life to the maximum extent after you reach the retirement age. And thank you very much for treating me to the coffee and lunch. Regards, Hiro

Bassem S.

5 / 5

Apr 14, 2024

One Day tour in Nara