Nara Private Tours &amp; Local Tour Guides

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.

Hiroshi Y.

4.68 / 5

(332 reviews)

Hello,I am HIROSHI YOKOYAMA. Please call me Hiro, not "hero". I have been lived in kyoto for more than 30years. So, I am very familiar with the city of Kyoto and a unique culture developed in Japan as well. I can offer you not only historic places like Nijo castle, Kinkakuji temple ,Kiyomizu temple etc., but also off the beaten track spots Nijo jinya house or nicknamed "ninjya house" ,Katsura Imperial Villa etc.. I am really looking forward to seeing you .

Shuji O.

4.95 / 5

(39 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!

Makoto Y.

4.93 / 5

(120 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!!

Koichi W.

4.96 / 5

(77 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.

Hiroshi Y.

4.68 / 5

(332 reviews)

Hello,I am HIROSHI YOKOYAMA. Please call me Hiro, not "hero". I have been lived in kyoto for more than 30years. So, I am very familiar with the city of Kyoto and a unique culture developed in Japan as well. I can offer you not only historic places like Nijo castle, Kinkakuji temple ,Kiyomizu temple etc., but also off the beaten track spots Nijo jinya house or nicknamed "ninjya house" ,Katsura Imperial Villa etc.. I am really looking forward to seeing you .

Shuji O.

4.95 / 5

(39 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!

Makoto Y.

4.93 / 5

(120 reviews)

View All Nara Tour Guides

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!!

New Nara Tour Guides

Marcelo M.

Maru is from San Diego California. Has been in Japan over a decade. Maru has come for the love of video games and anime. Enticed by the beauty of Japanese art. Maru is happy to share Japanese food and quirky cultural differences to take unique memories back home. Maru es de San Diego California. Lleva en Japón más de una década. Maru llegó por su amor a los video juegos y el anime. Seducido por la belleza del arte Japonés, está feliz de compartir la comida Japonesa y las peculiares diferencias culturales para que puedan llevarse recuerdos únicos a casa.

Jungo S.

Nice to meet you. My name is Jungo, and I was born in Osaka. I have spent most of my 31 years living here in Osaka. The reason I decided to become a tour guide is that I lived in Canada and Australia for two years each. During that time, my family visited me several times, and I guided them with all my effort, helping them enjoy their travels to the fullest. They were extremely satisfied with my guidance. Based on this experience, I decided that I wanted to help tourists from all over the world explore Japan and fully enjoy this country that I am so proud of. I also love traveling by car from Osaka, and I am confident that I can offer wonderful travel plans to everyone. Please let me help make your trip a great experience. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

Menshawi F.

5.00 / 5

(1 reviews)

Konnichiwa! I'm a passionate licensed tour guide and for me, being a tour guide isn't just a job. Its a way to share my love for Kyoto city and create meaningful connection with people from around the world. I enjoy helping travelers feel at home, discover new perspectives and leave with cherished memories. I look forward to welcoming you on a journey of discovery, whether you're a first-time visitor or returning to explore even deeper. Let's make your trip truly special together. If you're looking for an adventure off the beaten path or a deep dive into local tradition, my goal is to make every moment memorable.Let me guide you on a journey you'll cherish forever

Kazue K.

4.67 / 5

(3 reviews)

Hello! My name is Kazu, a tour guide from Kyoto. I was born and raised here, studied in Osaka, and became fluent in English after studying abroad in Canada. My experience there made me appreciate Japan’s beauty and cultural differences, inspiring me to share Kyoto with people from around the world. I started as a volunteer guide for friends but now work professionally to show more people Kyoto’s charm. On my tours, I’ll take you to great spots and share insights into Japanese culture, customs, and the unique mindset of Japanese people. I look forward to guiding you!

Marcelo M.

Maru is from San Diego California. Has been in Japan over a decade. Maru has come for the love of video games and anime. Enticed by the beauty of Japanese art. Maru is happy to share Japanese food and quirky cultural differences to take unique memories back home. Maru es de San Diego California. Lleva en Japón más de una década. Maru llegó por su amor a los video juegos y el anime. Seducido por la belleza del arte Japonés, está feliz de compartir la comida Japonesa y las peculiares diferencias culturales para que puedan llevarse recuerdos únicos a casa.

Jungo S.

Nice to meet you. My name is Jungo, and I was born in Osaka. I have spent most of my 31 years living here in Osaka. The reason I decided to become a tour guide is that I lived in Canada and Australia for two years each. During that time, my family visited me several times, and I guided them with all my effort, helping them enjoy their travels to the fullest. They were extremely satisfied with my guidance. Based on this experience, I decided that I wanted to help tourists from all over the world explore Japan and fully enjoy this country that I am so proud of. I also love traveling by car from Osaka, and I am confident that I can offer wonderful travel plans to everyone. Please let me help make your trip a great experience. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

Menshawi F.

5.00 / 5

(1 reviews)

Konnichiwa! I'm a passionate licensed tour guide and for me, being a tour guide isn't just a job. Its a way to share my love for Kyoto city and create meaningful connection with people from around the world. I enjoy helping travelers feel at home, discover new perspectives and leave with cherished memories. I look forward to welcoming you on a journey of discovery, whether you're a first-time visitor or returning to explore even deeper. Let's make your trip truly special together. If you're looking for an adventure off the beaten path or a deep dive into local tradition, my goal is to make every moment memorable.Let me guide you on a journey you'll cherish forever

Kazue K.

4.67 / 5

(3 reviews)

View All Nara Tour Guides

Hello! My name is Kazu, a tour guide from Kyoto. I was born and raised here, studied in Osaka, and became fluent in English after studying abroad in Canada. My experience there made me appreciate Japan’s beauty and cultural differences, inspiring me to share Kyoto with people from around the world. I started as a volunteer guide for friends but now work professionally to show more people Kyoto’s charm. On my tours, I’ll take you to great spots and share insights into Japanese culture, customs, and the unique mindset of Japanese people. I look forward to guiding you!

Popular Nara Private Tours

Full-Day Nara tour from Kyoto with a private guide

Nara is a very beautiful and interesting city known by the old name of "Yamato". It was established as the first permanent Japan's capital in the year 710. There are a lot of historical monuments in this ancient city, such as Todaiji Great Buddha Hall, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Kofukuji Temple and so on. Nara"deer"park is also one of must-see areas. Let's walk around and play with the lovely deer!!

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 trip of Nara Park

-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.

Historic Monuments of Ancient Capital of Nara - from Osaka

In Nara, eight Buddhism temples and Shintoism Shrines are included in the World Heritage as “Historic Monuments in Ancient Capital of Nara” as those represent close cultural exchanges between Japan and China, and even Hellenism culture in the 8th century. On this tour we will visit three of them in a day from Osaka.

Full-Day Nara tour from Kyoto with a private guide

Nara is a very beautiful and interesting city known by the old name of "Yamato". It was established as the first permanent Japan's capital in the year 710. There are a lot of historical monuments in this ancient city, such as Todaiji Great Buddha Hall, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Kofukuji Temple and so on. Nara"deer"park is also one of must-see areas. Let's walk around and play with the lovely deer!!

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 trip of Nara Park

-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.

Historic Monuments of Ancient Capital of Nara - from Osaka

View All Nara Private Tours

In Nara, eight Buddhism temples and Shintoism Shrines are included in the World Heritage as “Historic Monuments in Ancient Capital of Nara” as those represent close cultural exchanges between Japan and China, and even Hellenism culture in the 8th century. On this tour we will visit three of them in a day from Osaka.

New Nara Private Tours

Stroll through Nara Park stopping here and there

Experience the unique charm of the old capital. Nara was the capital in the 8th century and was marked by splendid cultural assets. In the 19th century, its heart area and surrounding hills were developed into Nara Park. It has been a fabulous place among locals, tourists, and deer with religious rituals, a giant Buddha statue representing the emperor’s and people's wishes, chill out with divine messengers of deity, and a conventional townhouse renovated into a museum, gallery, and café.

Mixed Scenery with Towns and Temples, Nara

Enjoy the beauty of the temples in rural scenery and old townscapes. Ikaruga is Japan's oldest temple town, dating back to the 7th century. Even today, the pagodas from that time rise and create a beautiful rural landscape surrounded by mountains. Naramachi is within the grounds of a temple built near the Imperial Palace in the 8th century. Commercial and industrial houses lined its grounds from the Middle Ages, and the temples blended into the traditional townscape.

Nara park & Wazuka tea plantation visit

7 hours 30 min

In the morning, we will visit Nara Park, Todaiji temple, Kasuga grand shrine. You will have a chance to see, take photos and feed deer. After lunch, we will have a short trip to Wazuka village, the hometown of Uji tea, excellent quality of green tea. The landscape of tea plantations, built on the mountain slope, has 800 years of history. It was designated as the first scenic property of Kyoto Prefecture, as well as one of the Japan Heritages.

Uji-tea plantation visit

4 hours

We will visit Wazuka village, the hometown of Uji tea, excellent quality of green tea. The landscape of tea plantations, built on the mountain slope, has 800 years of history. It was designated as the first scenic property of Kyoto Prefecture, as well as one of the Japan Heritages.

Stroll through Nara Park stopping here and there

Experience the unique charm of the old capital. Nara was the capital in the 8th century and was marked by splendid cultural assets. In the 19th century, its heart area and surrounding hills were developed into Nara Park. It has been a fabulous place among locals, tourists, and deer with religious rituals, a giant Buddha statue representing the emperor’s and people's wishes, chill out with divine messengers of deity, and a conventional townhouse renovated into a museum, gallery, and café.

Mixed Scenery with Towns and Temples, Nara

Enjoy the beauty of the temples in rural scenery and old townscapes. Ikaruga is Japan's oldest temple town, dating back to the 7th century. Even today, the pagodas from that time rise and create a beautiful rural landscape surrounded by mountains. Naramachi is within the grounds of a temple built near the Imperial Palace in the 8th century. Commercial and industrial houses lined its grounds from the Middle Ages, and the temples blended into the traditional townscape.

Nara park & Wazuka tea plantation visit

7 hours 30 min

In the morning, we will visit Nara Park, Todaiji temple, Kasuga grand shrine. You will have a chance to see, take photos and feed deer. After lunch, we will have a short trip to Wazuka village, the hometown of Uji tea, excellent quality of green tea. The landscape of tea plantations, built on the mountain slope, has 800 years of history. It was designated as the first scenic property of Kyoto Prefecture, as well as one of the Japan Heritages.

Uji-tea plantation visit

View All Nara Private Tours

4 hours

We will visit Wazuka village, the hometown of Uji tea, excellent quality of green tea. The landscape of tea plantations, built on the mountain slope, has 800 years of history. It was designated as the first scenic property of Kyoto Prefecture, as well as one of the Japan Heritages.

Popular Nara Private Cars

[Nara] Day Tour with a Private Car - 3h by Van (9 pax)

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.

Car ride to the foot of Mt. wakakusa to have short-hike and Deer park!

5 hours

*Available from March 22 to December 14, 2025 This tour offeres you a panoramic view at the bottom of Mt Wakakusa is located behind the Nara park, and get down to the Kasuga shrine then Todaiji while pass though Nara deer park. This is an experienced-based tour that provides you to short-hike, and you also can see the historical landmarks.

FROM$165/ per group

Tom K.

[Nara] Day Tour with a Private Car - 6h by Van (9 pax)

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 - 8h by Van (9 pax)

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 - 3h by Van (9 pax)

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.

Car ride to the foot of Mt. wakakusa to have short-hike and Deer park!

5 hours

*Available from March 22 to December 14, 2025 This tour offeres you a panoramic view at the bottom of Mt Wakakusa is located behind the Nara park, and get down to the Kasuga shrine then Todaiji while pass though Nara deer park. This is an experienced-based tour that provides you to short-hike, and you also can see the historical landmarks.

FROM$165/ per group

Tom K.

[Nara] Day Tour with a Private Car - 6h by Van (9 pax)

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 - 8h by Van (9 pax)

View All Nara Private Cars

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

Kyoto

Osaka

Kobe

Wakayama

Mie

Nara Tour Reviews

Ignacio P.

5 / 5

May 1, 2025

One day customized tour in Nara

May 1, 2025

7 hours

Customized

“Nara : The full experience”

The guidance of Kato has been a real present. His deep knowledge of Japanese history and culture and his passion sharing it, has made the day Realty short. Thank you very much for your generosity and kindness Kato!!

Yasuhisa K.

Dear Ignacio Thank you very much for your nice review. I was also very happy to accompany with such nice couple as you. Yasu

Don M.

5 / 5

Apr 29, 2025

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

Apr 29, 2025

7 hours

“Fantastic Day in Nara”

Kazu was a great guide. He took his time and showed us some really hidden sites in Nara. Of course we hit the main attractions, but he also took us to this small serene garden that was just so peaceful. I would highly recommend him for any tour.

Kazuhiko G.

Thank you for your wonderful review. I also had a great time. I'm sorry I made you walk so much. I hope this tour will be a memorable one for you. Thank you!!

Andreas S.

5 / 5

Apr 26, 2025

Nara and Southern Kyoto Highlights Full-day ( 8 hour) Tour

Apr 26, 2025

Customized

“Incredible 2 days visiting Kyoto and Nara”

What an incredible 2 days of sight-seeing around Kyoto and Nara. Koichi is a wonderful, extremely knowledgeable and passionate guide. We took in all the main sights of Kyoto and Nara and Koichi was always willing to share information and point out interesting facts at all the different places we visited. We took in all these sites yet still there was more to see and do if we had had the time. Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Kinkakuji Golden Temple, Nijo-jo Castle, Tenryuji Zen Temple, Nara Deer Park, Todaiji Great Buddha Hall, Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, Byodo-in temple. Koichi was always on hand to provide the history of the places and also took the time to explain the Japanese language and the differences in the local dialect as well whilst we were travelling between areas. If I could give more stars I would. Ookini Koichi-san we all thank you so much for the memories and I hope to take you up on your offer of a Sake tour next time.

Koichi W.

Hi! Andreas san. Thank you for your wonderful message and rating. Once again I am looking at the photos of the two-day tour with you and remembering the days. I really appreciate the wonderful time you shared with me. It was only recently, but I still remember the days with fond memories. Koichi

Latest Nara Articles

The 8 Most Beautiful Shrines And Temples To See While You Travel To Nara

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Nara, one of the most acient city in Japan, is a place rich in history with many National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties. You can spot Old Japan through wandering through temples, shrines and streets. Nara is also a perfect destination for yo...

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Jan 18, 2024

Nara Half Day Tour - World Heritage Religious Sites

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We introduce the most popular itineraries amongst our customers who choose tours on GoWithGuide. We hope it helps you to plan your perfect itinerary during your trip to Japan. In our thirteenth post of the series, we focus on the best full day tour of Yok...

Nara Full Day Tour - World Heritage and Ancient Sites

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We introduce the most popular itineraries amongst our customers who choose tours on GoWithGuide. We hope it helps you to plan your perfect itinerary during your trip to Japan. In our twelfth post of the series, we focus on the best full day tour of Nara. ...

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Top 5 Things to do in Nara on TripAdvisor

Nara, Japan

If you are planning a trip to Nara, then a great place to start would be with the five top rated attractions on TripAdvisor. See the amazing great Buddha in Todaiji, experience the sight of deer as you travel around Nara Park, or enjoy a 1,200 year old ni...

The 8 Most Beautiful Shrines And Temples To See While You Travel To Nara

Nara, Japan

Nara, one of the most acient city in Japan, is a place rich in history with many National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties. You can spot Old Japan through wandering through temples, shrines and streets. Nara is also a perfect destination for yo...

RICH LIN

Jan 18, 2024

Nara Half Day Tour - World Heritage Religious Sites

Nara, Japan

We introduce the most popular itineraries amongst our customers who choose tours on GoWithGuide. We hope it helps you to plan your perfect itinerary during your trip to Japan. In our thirteenth post of the series, we focus on the best full day tour of Yok...

Nara Full Day Tour - World Heritage and Ancient Sites

Nara, Japan

We introduce the most popular itineraries amongst our customers who choose tours on GoWithGuide. We hope it helps you to plan your perfect itinerary during your trip to Japan. In our twelfth post of the series, we focus on the best full day tour of Nara. ...

Apr 28, 2022

Top 5 Things to do in Nara on TripAdvisor

Nara, Japan

If you are planning a trip to Nara, then a great place to start would be with the five top rated attractions on TripAdvisor. See the amazing great Buddha in Todaiji, experience the sight of deer as you travel around Nara Park, or enjoy a 1,200 year old ni...