English guided sightseeing bus "Perfect Nara Park Tour"

Explore Nara’s rich heritage and stunning landscapes on this guided bus tour. Visit the magnificent Todaiji Temple, home to the impressive Great Buddha statue, and wander through the serene grounds of Kasuga Taisha Shrine, both recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Your journey also includes a trip to the top of Mt. Wakakusa, offering breathtaking views of the city below.

During the tour, you’ll have the unique experience of meeting the friendly deer that freely roam Nara Park. To make your adventure even better, you'll receive a complimentary 1-day bus pass, giving you the freedom to discover more of Nara’s treasures at your leisure.

Tour Highlights

• Visit Todaiji Temple and see the Great Buddha statue

• Explore the historic Kasuga Taisha Shrine

• Enjoy panoramic views from Mt. Wakakusa

• Interact with friendly deer in Nara Park

• Receive a complimentary 1-day bus pass for further exploration

What's Covered

• Bus fare

• English-speaking guide

• Entrance fees for temples

• Viewing fee at Mt. Wakakusa

• Deer fortune-telling paper

• Deer cracker fee

• Consumption tax

What's Extra

• Lunch

Tour Schedule

Departure

• 9:30 AM from JR Nara Station (East Exit), Bus Stop No. 4

• Ensure you arrive at least 10 minutes early to board the bus comfortably and on time.

Todaiji Temple

Duration: 70 minutes

Explore the awe-inspiring Todaiji Temple, home to the Great Buddha statue, one of the largest bronze statues in the world. Learn about the temple’s rich history and significance from your guide as you wander through its impressive grounds.

Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Duration: 60 minutes

Discover the beauty of Kasuga Taisha Shrine, which is famous for its hundreds of bronze and stone lanterns. Participate in drawing a deer fortune (available in English) and immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of this ancient site.

Nara Okuyama Driveway

Duration: 5 minutes

Enjoy a scenic drive through the beautiful Nara Okuyama Driveway, offering lush greenery and serene landscapes.

Mt. Wakakusa Summit

Duration: 40 minutes

Ascend to the summit of Mt. Wakakusa for breathtaking panoramic views of Nara. Enjoy some free time to explore, take photos, and feed the friendly deer with special deer rice crackers.

Nara Okuyama Driveway

Duration: 7 minutes

Another picturesque drive through the Nara Okuyama Driveway, allowing you to soak in the natural beauty of the area.

Kofukuji Temple

Scheduled Arrival: 1:20 PM

Pass by the historic Kofukuji Temple, one of Nara's significant landmarks. You have the option to leave the tour here if you wish to explore further on your own.

Essentials to Know Before Booking

• This tour is not recommended for children under 6 years old.

• Go directly to the bus stop; no need to check in at the information desk.

• Show your boarding pass (voucher) to the attendant when boarding the bus.

• Arrive at the bus stop at least 10 minutes before the departure time.

• Check the boarding and departure times as they vary based on the location.

• The tour lasts approximately 4 hours.

Meeting Point:

JR Nara Station (East Exit) Bus Stop No. 4

• Address: 1 Sanjo Honmachi, Nara City, Nara Prefecture 630-8122

• Access: Immediately after exiting at JR Yamatoji Line Nara Station

Related Read: Kansai Wonders: Exploring the Cultural Heart of Japan