Nara: Must-see attractions tour with English-Speaking Guide

Prepare to be awestruck by Todai-ji, a jewel of Japan’s cultural heritage and one of the world's most historic Buddhist temples. This UNESCO World Heritage site features the massive Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall), one of the largest wooden buildings on the planet. Inside sits the breathtaking Great Buddha (Daibutsu), a towering 15-meter-tall bronze statue crafted over 1,200 years ago. Walking through the monumental Nandaimon Gate, guarded by fierce wooden warrior statues, you will step directly into the golden age of ancient Japan.

Established in 1880, Nara Park is a massive, picturesque park famous for its vibrant nature and its most unique residents—over 1,000 free-roaming wild deer. In Shinto tradition, these deer are protected as divine messengers of the gods. Today, they are remarkably friendly and have even learned to "bow" to visitors to ask for special deer crackers (shika-senbei). Surrounded by historic temples and ancient trees, a stroll through this beautiful park is a heartwarming and unforgettable experience.

Nestled at the foot of a sacred primeval forest, Kasuga Taisha is Nara’s most celebrated Shinto shrine and a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. This magical stop is world-famous for its thousands of lanterns—both stone lanterns lining the atmospheric forest pathways and brilliant bronze ones hanging elegantly within the shrine complex. As you walk the peaceful approach, you’ll be greeted by Nara’s friendly wild deer, revered here as divine messengers of the gods.

Located on the former grounds of Gangoji Temple (a UNESCO World Heritage site), this charming area is famous for its preserved Machiya (traditional wooden townhouses) from the Edo period. Walking through its narrow, winding streets, you will discover cozy cafes, traditional craft shops, and hidden shrines. Keep an eye out for the Migawari-Saru (hanging red monkeys) hanging from the eaves—a local charm believed to protect homes from misfortune.