Nara Highlights Half-Day Tour: Temple & Local Cuisine

Overview

Available languages

English

5 hours 30 minutes

Mobile ticket

Touch the feet of the National Treasure Eleven-Faced Kannon at Hasedera Temple, hear monks blowing conch shells, savor Nara sushi bento in a cozy historic house, and witness artisans restoring Buddhist art up close. Free shuttle included.

●Hasedera Temple

Step inside Hasedera Temple’s main hall (normally closed to the public) and touch the feet of the National Treasure Eleven-Faced Kannon — a rare experience.

●Lunch

Enjoy a traditional lunch in a restored Japanese house, featuring Nara’s famous kakinoha sushi, colorful chirashi sushi, and seasonal sweets.

●restoring Buddhist art and sculpture up close

Visit a restoration center where artisans preserve ancient Buddhist art, offering a unique look at Japan’s craftsmanship.

Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families who want to discover Nara’s sacred sites, authentic food, and hidden traditions — all in just half a day!

Additional Info

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

Touching the Buddha’s Feet Experience

Pickup service between destinations and fixed locations. Comfortable, air-conditioned shuttle bus included as part of the free round-trip transportation service from Nara City.

WiFi on board

In-person Guide: English

Hasedera temple

Local Sushi Bento For vegetarians, a traditional local somen noodle dish — light, refreshing, and plant-based — is available upon request. Please select your preference at the time of booking.

Gratuities

Large Baggage Handling: We are unable to store suitcases or large backpacks.

What To Expect

Hasedera Temple

At Hase-dera, one of Nara’s most sacred temples, you’ll enjoy a rare opportunity to touch the feet of the hidden Eleven-Faced Kannon statue — a deeply spiritual and unforgettable moment. Your guide will also lead you to the best spot at the right time to hear the monks blow their sacred conch shells, an atmospheric sound that few visitors get to experience.

1 hour • Admission Included

For lunch, savor Nara’s famous kakinoha sushi (sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves), colorful chirashi sushi. The meal is served in a beautifully restored traditional house, where the peaceful atmosphere perfectly complements the flavors. Relax and enjoy an authentic taste of Nara in an elegant, historic setting.

50 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

Options

NOVOTEL Nara

Starting point:
Novotel Nara, Omiya Cho, 7-chōme-1-45 Ōmiyachō, Nara, 630-8115, Japan

Hotel Obana

Starting point:
Hotel Obana, 1110 Takabatakechō, Nara, 630-8301, Japan

JR Nara Station West Exit

Reviews

5.00

2 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

It's not just deer, it's Nara's charm!! Special Experience Tour at Hasedera Temple
hirotaka h,
Jun 1, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
I was Japanese, but I really enjoyed it. On the bus, the guide was explaining very hard and I was very happy. The experience at Hasedera was also unforgettable. Lunch at the old house was also impressive, making us want to introduce our friends to the whole tour! Thank you very much!!!
Fantastic local tour of Nara
maaruko,
Jun 1, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
It was a great time on the bus tour visiting lesser-known spots in Nara! The comfortable sightseeing with informative guides made it enjoyable. This tour is perfect for those interested in exploring beyond the deer and discovering places that are harder to reach individually.