Nara Adventure from Kyoto: Todaiji, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Nara Park & More

Home to serene gardens, ancient temples, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and the famous sprawling gardens with its iconic deer, Nara is a must-visit destination when in Japan. And It’s just a short train ride from Kyoto! With your friendly TripGuru at your side, go on a full-day adventure and hit up the city’s most beautiful spots!

Meet up with your guide at the meeting point and board the express train to Nara to begin the day’s adventure. Pass by the Gyoki Statue and explore the Kofukuji Temple grounds as you learn about the history and establishment of the Heijo-kyo imperial capital.

From there, you’ll head to Nara Park where you’ll see the friendly, free-roaming Sika deer, considered sacred messengers of the gods in the Shinto religion. Take in the vast, wide-open spaces and lush greenery, and snap a few photos with the deer (considered the symbol of Nara), before heading to Todaiji.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site stands majestically within the park and houses the awe-inspiring Great Buddha (Daibutsu), one of the largest bronze statues of Buddha in Japan. Up next is a traditional lunch at Kotoya Restaurant where you’ll get to enjoy some local Nara specialties before you head to Kasuga Taisha shrine.

Take in the picturesque shrine adorned with thousands of hanging lanterns before taking a stroll in Naramachi and get a glimpse of the narrow lanes lined with well-preserved traditional merchant houses that encapsulate the essence of the Edo period.

Important information

Kasuga Shrine will be closed from 20 December to 7 January due to the Special Worship of the Main Sanctuary. During this period, visitors will be directed to Tōdai-ji Nigatsu-dō instead. This historic temple hall, which is also part of the Tōdai-ji complex, offers panoramic views over Nara and a rich cultural experience.