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Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Sacred Deer & Great Buddha (4hrs)

Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Sacred Deer & Great Buddha (4hrs)

Day Trip

Joined 2026

Hanako K.

Identity Verified

Interview-Based Quality Checks

Kyoto

English, Japanese (Native)

4 hours

Private tour (only you and Hanako K.)

Up to 10 people

Explore the highlights of Nara on this efficient 4-hour day trip starting right from Kyoto Station.

The centerpiece of our journey is the awe-inspiring Great Buddha at Todai-ji Temple. We will then escape the crowds and walk up to Nigatsu-do, a "hidden gem" balcony that offers a stunning panoramic view of the city. This tour is designed for those who want to experience the best of Nara’s history and spiritual atmosphere seamlessly from Kyoto.

Itinerary

This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!

07:00 AM

Meeting Point

the Kintetsu Railway ticket gate at Kyoto Station

- The Kintetsu Railway entrance is on the 2nd floor (top floor of the pedestrian walkway). You will find it directly across from the JR Shinkansen Central Gate. I will be waiting for you near the Kintetsu ticket machines.

The train ride to Nara

The train ride from Kyoto Station to Kintetsu Nara Station takes about 40 minutes.

The greatest Buddha statue in Todaiji Temple

From the station, we’ll walk 15 minutes to the temple, meeting friendly sacred deer along the way. At Todai-ji, you will see the Great Buddha—an absolutely massive, world-class masterpiece. Its overwhelming scale and ancient artistry are truly breathtaking.

Return to Kintetsu Nara Station and take the train back to Kyoto Station

Ending Point

Kyoto Station

Want to personalize this tour?

This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.

Inclusions & Exclusions

What‘s included

Guide fee

What‘s not included

• Transportation: Your train fares and the guide’s fare (approx. 1,500–2,500 yen per person for the Kyoto–Nara round trip).

• Entrance fees: Admission for Todai-ji Temple (800 yen per person). Please also cover the guide’s entrance fee.

• Personal expenses: Any snacks, souvenirs, or additional activities not listed in the itinerary.

Tour Important Information

• Transportation Fees:

Please prepare approximately 1,500–2,500 yen per person for the round-trip train between Kyoto and Nara (varies depending on whether we use the Express or Limited Express train).

• Admission Fees:

800 yen per person for the Todai-ji Great Buddha.

• Walking Note:

This tour involves about 60–90 minutes of walking in total, including interaction with deer and a slope leading to Nigatsu-do. Please wear comfortable walking shoes.

• Deer Interaction:

Nara’s deer are wild animals. While they are generally friendly, please follow the local safety guidelines when feeding or approaching them.

• Exclusions:

Transportation and entrance fees for the guide are not included in the tour price. Please kindly cover these costs during the tour.

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time

Joined 2026

Hanako K.

Identity Verified

Interview-Based Quality Checks

About Tour Guide Hanako K.

Hello I'm Hanako, a Kyoto-based guide who loves sharing the beauty of Japanese culture and history with visitors from around the world.

I have a special interest in traditional kimono culture. During my tours, I enjoy explaining the history and intoroducing Kyoto's cultural heritage.

My tours are relaxed, flexible and tailored to your interests. Whether you want to explore famous landmarks or discover hidden places, I would be happy to create a memorable experience for you.

I look forward to showing uou the charm of Kyoto!