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.
At the Nara Station
- Kintetsu Nara station or JR Nara station
Nara Station
It's very beautiful. You will experience the ancient atmosphere here. You will learn something about Japanese culture.
If you're lucky (I'm often lucky), you'll see a wedding ceremony here.
There are many friendly wild deer in the beautiful natural garden
Buddhism has a long history in Nara. Sangatsudo has unique Buddha statues such as the Fukukenjaku-kannon. Please enjoy my presentation.
You can enjoy the view of Nara city from there. You will find the stage used for the dynamic "omizutan" ritual held in February.
Lunch at a casual local restaurant near Nigatsudo Temple
Let's go down to the most important area of Nara
You will see two of the most important sites here. The largest Buddha statue(Great Buddha) and the largest wooden building(Todaiji) in the world, are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. You can take photos inside.
You will see the most popular statue in the museum.
The Nara Station (Kintetsu or JR)
Station
Guide fee
The transportation fee (you and the guide): about 200-500 yen/per person (bus)
Lunch (you and the guide): about 2000 yen/per person
Admission fees (you only): 1000-2000 yen/per person
We walk about 2 miles down hills. You will see the dear every place in this course.
Available except for summertime.
I can guide you in Hiroshima or Kanazawa if you pay my transportation fee.
Jee M.
Osaka Castle and waterfront view of downtown Osaka
Customized
“Osaka tour”
Suji is a responsible guide.
Shuji O.
(11 reviews)Thank you for your high rating. We found that Osaka Castle and Aqualiner can be enjoyed even if you use a wheelchair. Thank you for listening to some stories about Nakanoshima and Osaka Castle. I hope I could satisfy your interests. Have a nice time for the rest of your trip to Japan.
“Great guide with good historical knowledge ”
Shuji’s English was very good and we really enjoyed our conversations with him. As a former history teacher his in depth knowledge of the region provided us with a better understanding of Japanese history, religion, and culture. He was well prepared for our day trip to Nara. We would highly recommend him.
Shuji O.
(11 reviews)Thank you very much for your kind words. Even though we changed our itinerary drastically just two days before, we were very happy with our trip. Yes, I can be flexible. We had a lot in common that made me feel special. I'm so glad you had a good last day in Japan. I hope your long flight home is comfortable. Thank you very much.
Rita H.
Bamboo grove and Arashiyama area, three World Heritages.
“Super time in kyoto”
We had a great time in Kyoto. A beautiful city in every aspect. Shuji our guide showed us the beautiful highlights of the area and he also showed us lots of beautiful gardens which we love to look at. He was a very nice person and we enjoyed having him as our guide.
Shuji O.
(11 reviews)Thank you for the great review. We enjoyed lots of cherry blossoms everywhere, including a hidden gem. I hope you enjoy the rest of your trip to Japan. Thank you very much.