Nara Highlights Half-Day Tour: Temple & Local Cuisine

Touch the feet of the hidden Buddha at Hasedera Temple

Chirashi sushi and kakinoha sushi — a traditional Japanese lunch.

Inside the Restorations and Exhibition Wing at the Nara Prefecture Historical and Artistic Culture Complex

Duration5h 30m

Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before

Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away

TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted

LanguagesEnglish

Group sizeUp to 20 travelers

Overview

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!

Options

Hotel Obana

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

NOVOTEL Nara

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

JR Nara Station West Exit

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
1h · Admission ticket included

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.
50m

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.
Nara History Art and Culture Village Cultural Property Restoration/ Exhibition Hall
40m

Visit a cultural restoration center where skilled artisans work to preserve ancient Buddhist statues, paintings, and treasures. Watching this delicate process up close offers a rare chance to appreciate the craftsmanship, dedication, and spirit that keep Japan’s cultural heritage alive for future generations.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Please wait at the "West Exit" of JR Nara Station, where you'll find a rotary with taxi and bus stops. Nearby landmarks include Hotel Nikko Nara and the Silkia Nara shopping mall. Our staff will meet you there wearing a black jacket with a logo on the chest.

Meeting point

Please wait near the hotel front desk until the meeting time. Our staff will greet you wearing a black jacket with a logo on the chest.

Meeting point

Please look for our staff standing near the hotel front desk area. They will be wearing a black jacket with a logo on the chest and holding a matching flag.

End point

Please wait at the "West Exit" of JR Nara Station, where you'll find a rotary with taxi and bus stops. Nearby landmarks include Hotel Nikko Nara and the Silkia Nara shopping mall. Our staff will meet you there wearing a black jacket with a logo on the chest.

End point

Please wait near the hotel front desk until the meeting time. Our staff will greet you wearing a black jacket with a logo on the chest.

End point

Please look for our staff standing near the hotel front desk area. They will be wearing a black jacket with a logo on the chest and holding a matching flag.

Additional information

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.

Reviews

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