Private Nara Tour and Sake Tasting (Departing From Kyoto/Nara)

Exploring Nara’s timeless charm and savoring the nuances of traditional Japanese sake make for an unforgettable experience. This private tour departs from Kyoto or Nara, immersing visitors in the region’s captivating history and culture. From the majestic Todaiji Temple to the friendly deer of Nara Park, each moment promises to enchant. But the true highlight? Discovering the art of sake through a curated tasting session that unveils the exceptional flavors and intricate craftsmanship of this iconic beverage.

Good To Know

• This private Nara tour includes a guided exploration of Todaiji Temple and opportunities to feed the iconic deer in Nara Park.
• The tour offers a sake tasting experience where participants can sample different varieties of traditional Japanese rice wine.
• The 4-hour tour from Nara or 5-hour tour from Kyoto is led by an English-speaking guide and concludes at Kintetsu-Nara Station.
• The moderate fitness level required allows visitors to fully engage with the cultural and natural highlights of the experience.
• Professional photos are captured throughout the tour to commemorate the unique visit to Nara.

Tour Overview

This private Nara tour and sake tasting experience departs from either Kyoto or Nara, lasting approximately 4 hours in Nara or 5 hours from Kyoto, including train travel.

A passionate local English-speaking guide leads the tour, providing access to Todaiji Temple and opportunities to feed deer and taste traditional sake.

The tour includes entrance fees, snacks, sake tasting, and professional photos.

It concludes at Kintetsu-Nara Station, allowing participants to continue sightseeing or return to Kyoto.

A moderate fitness level is required, and the tour is private, with only your group participating.

Inclusions

The tour includes a passionate local English-speaking guide to lead the experience.

Entrance fees to the iconic Todai-ji Temple are covered, allowing you to explore this architectural marvel.

Traditional sushi and deer crackers are provided for you to feed the friendly deer that roam the grounds.

You’ll also enjoy a sake tasting, learning about the local brewing process.

Stunning professional photos capture the highlights of your tour.

Free Wi-Fi is available, and public transportation fare is included for those departing from Kyoto.

This comprehensive package ensures a seamless and memorable Nara adventure.

Meeting and Ending Points

For this tour, participants can select a convenient meeting point.

The tour concludes at Kintetsu-Nara Station in Nara, Japan. This station is located at 29 Higashimukachocho, Nishimikadocho, Nara 630-8215.

After the tour, guests have the option to continue exploring Nara or return to Kyoto on their own. The tour doesn’t provide transportation from Kintetsu-Nara Station at the end.

Participants are responsible for their own arrangements to depart the station and return to their desired location.

Sake Tasting

As part of the private Nara tour, participants can look forward to a sake tasting experience.

The tour includes a fee of 700 yen for the sake tasting, which allows visitors to sample different varieties of the traditional Japanese rice wine. A knowledgeable guide will provide insights into the history, production, and tasting notes of the featured sakes.

This cultural experience complements the other highlights of the tour, such as visiting the iconic Todaiji Temple and feeding the friendly deer in Nara Park.

The sake tasting is an opportunity to deepen one’s appreciation of Japanese traditions.

Feeding the Deer

When visiting Nara Park, one of the highlights is the opportunity to interact with the friendly deer that roam freely throughout the area.

Thousands of deer, considered sacred messengers of the gods, inhabit the park. Visitors can purchase deer crackers from nearby vendors and hand-feed the deer by holding the crackers in their open palms.

The deer are tame and gentle, often approaching visitors and bowing their heads to receive the treats. Feeding the deer is a unique and memorable experience that allows visitors to connect with the natural wonder of Nara Park.

Visiting Todaiji Temple

After experiencing the friendly deer in Nara Park, the tour continues to Todaiji Temple, one of Nara’s most iconic landmarks.

This expansive Buddhist temple houses the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue, standing over 15 meters tall. Visitors can marvel at the temple’s impressive architecture, including the massive main hall, Daibutsuden.

The tour guide provides insightful commentary, sharing the temple’s rich history and significance. Guests have the opportunity to explore the grounds, witnessing the temple’s beautiful gardens and historic structures.

Todaiji Temple’s grandeur leaves a lasting impression, further enhancing the overall Nara sightseeing experience.

Photography and Souvenirs

Throughout the private Nara tour, the guide encourages participants to capture stunning professional photos. Photographers can expect to take excellent shots of the famous Todaiji Temple, the friendly deer roaming the park, and the traditional Japanese architecture.

The tour also includes:

• Free Wi-Fi available for uploading and sharing photos in real-time
• Opportunities to purchase local snacks and souvenirs, such as deer crackers and sake
• Advice from the guide on the best angles and settings for capturing the perfect photos
• Recommendations for additional sightseeing and dining options after the tour
• A collection of the guide’s best photos provided as a memento of the experience.

Getting to Nara

The tour departs from either Kyoto or Nara, providing participants with the flexibility to start their journey from a convenient location.

For those departing from Kyoto, the public transportation fare is approximately 700 yen.

The tour concludes at Kintetsu-Nara Station, allowing participants to continue exploring Nara or return to Kyoto.

The meeting point can be selected, ensuring a seamless start to the tour.

Regardless of the departure point, the tour provides an immersive experience, taking visitors on a journey through Nara’s cultural and culinary highlights, including a sake tasting.

Common Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages on the tour. However, the tour includes traditional sushi and deer crackers, as well as a sake tasting, so bringing additional food and drinks may not be necessary.

Is This Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour may not be ideal for young children, as it involves walking and visiting historical sites. However, the inclusions like sushi and deer crackers could make it enjoyable for older children. Parents should consider their child’s interests and abilities when booking.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized. Guests can speak with the tour provider to discuss their preferences and interests, and the guide will work to tailor the experience to meet their needs within the overall tour structure.

Is the Tour Guide Available to Assist With Translations?

The passionate local, English-speaking guide is available to assist with translations throughout the tour. They’ll provide language support to ensure a seamless and immersive experience for participants.

Are There Any Discounts or Group Rates Available?

Yes, the tour offers group discounts. Prices start from $120.70 per person, with lower rates for larger groups. The exact cost varies depending on the group size.

The Sum Up

This private Nara tour offers a memorable experience, allowing visitors to explore the iconic Todaiji Temple, interact with friendly deer, and savor a curated sake tasting. Led by a passionate local guide, the tour ensures a personalized experience, concluding at Kintetsu-Nara Station for further exploration or return to Kyoto. It’s a delightful 4 to 5-hour adventure, perfect for those seeking an enriching culture in the heart of Japan.