Viator Rating : 5 (1585 reviews)
Nara
Kyoto & Nara: Matcha, Temples & Deer Day Trip
510
Overview
Discover the magic of ancient Japan on the World Heritage Kyoto & Nara Uji Authentic Matcha Experience. This full-day bus tour takes travelers to must-see cultural landmarks in Nara and Kyoto. See Nara's famous friendly deer, explore ancient temples, and learn to make authentic matcha in Uji, Kyoto, the birthplace of matcha.
What to Expect: The tour begins with a scenic drive passing Fushimi Castle and Heijokyo Palace on the way to Nara. Visitors will be greeted by the Great Buddha at Todaiji Temple, one of the world’s largest wooden buildings. Nara Park is home to approximately 1,400 deer, where visitors can interact with and feed them. Kasuga Taisha Shrine features 3,000 stone lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere. The adventure continues in Uji, Kyoto, where participants will learn the art of making Uji matcha tea and admire Byodo-in Phoenix Hall, featured on the back of the 10-yen coin. This tour includes admission to Byodoin and Todaiji Temples, a professional English-speaking guide, multilingual audio guidance, and onboard Wi-Fi.
This experience excludes gratuities, hotel pick-up and drop-off, and additional food and drinks beyond what is specified. Last-minute bookings receive a regular meal, and vegetarian options are available with advance notice. 
Highlights
Explore Nara's Famous Temples: Visit Todaiji Temple, home to a giant Buddha statue, and the serene Kasuga Taisha Shrine with its thousands of lanterns.
Meet the Friendly Nara Deer: Interact with over 1,000 wild deer roaming freely in Nara Park. You can even feed them crackers!
Make Authentic Matcha Tea: Learn about and make your own Uji matcha tea in Uji, Kyoto, a region famous for its high-quality green tea.
See Byodo-in Phoenix Hall: Admire the stunning Byodo-in Phoenix Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of Uji, Kyoto. Spot it on the 10-yen coin!
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved seeing the deer at Nara Park.
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Many enjoyed the matcha tea making experience in Uji.
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Visitors appreciated the comfortable transportation.
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Some customers found the tour guide to be very friendly.
Some felt that there was not enough time at each location.
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A few found the lunch to be basic.
The Journey
Nara Palace Site
Step back in time at the Nara Palace Site, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once the imperial capital of Japan, this historical site offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the Nara period (710-794). Explore the reconstructed Suzakumon Gate and the vast grounds, imagining the bustling court life that once unfolded here. It's a vital historical landmark showcasing Japan's rich heritage.
Todaiji Temple
Be awestruck by Todaiji Temple, home to the Daibutsu, a colossal bronze Buddha statue, and one of the world's largest wooden structures, the Daibutsuden Hall. Wander through this magnificent temple, marveling at the intricate details of its architecture and the serene atmosphere that permeates the grounds. A must-see destination that embodies the spiritual heart of Nara.
Nara Park
Experience the enchanting Nara Park, where over 1,400 friendly wild deer roam freely. Interact with these gentle creatures, feed them deer crackers (shika senbei), and enjoy the picturesque scenery of the park's lawns, ponds, and surrounding temples. Nara Park offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and unforgettable animal encounters.
Kasuga Taisha Shrine
Discover the beauty and history of Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Nara's most celebrated shrine. Admire the thousands of lanterns that adorn the pathways and buildings, creating a mystical ambiance. The shrine is dedicated to deities responsible for the protection of Nara. Experience the spiritual essence of this ancient sanctuary, a testament to Japan's enduring traditions.
Byodo-in Temple (Phoenix Hall)
Visit Byodo-in Temple, specifically the iconic Phoenix Hall (Hoodo). Admire the hall's elegant architecture, reflected beautifully in the surrounding pond. Its image is immortalized on the Japanese 10 yen coin, showcasing its national significance. Wander through the serene gardens and contemplate the temple's peaceful beauty, a symbol of Japanese artistic and spiritual achievement.
Matcha Tea Experience
Immerse yourself in the art of matcha preparation. Experience the unique taste of traditionally prepared matcha, where tea leaves are carefully ground and whisked to perfection. Enjoy the complex flavors and vibrant green color of this iconic Japanese beverage. It's not just tea; it's a cultural journey in a cup.
Nara Tea Houses
Explore the charming tea houses of Nara and indulge in a delightful array of matcha sweets. Wander through traditional streets and savor the delicate flavors of matcha-infused treats, from mochi to parfaits. These sweet treats offer a delightful glimpse into Nara's culinary traditions. Discover why Nara is synonymous with some of the best matcha experiences in Japan.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes a professional English-speaking guide, multilingual audio guidance, onboard Wi-Fi, and admission to Byodo-in and Todaiji Temples. If selected, it also includes a Japanese-style lunch. A matcha-making experience in Uji is included. Vegetarian meals can be arranged if requested at least 2 days before the tour. This tour excludes gratuities, hotel pick-up and drop-off, and any food and drinks not specifically mentioned as included.
Hot Tip
Some customers suggest allocating more time for each location to fully enjoy the experience. Purchase deer crackers upon arrival at Nara Park for a fun and interactive experience with the deer. Consider bringing extra snacks or drinks if you have dietary restrictions or preferences, as lunch options may be limited.
Review Summary
People find this World Heritage Kyoto & Nara Uji Authentic Matcha Experience tour highly recommended for its well-balanced itinerary, knowledgeable and friendly guides, and the combination of cultural landmarks with an authentic matcha tea ceremony. Positive highlights include the engaging interaction with Nara's deer, informative storytelling about historic sites, and the delicious included lunch. Some travelers note the tour is well-paced, allowing free time at each stop. Negative points, though minimal, relate mostly to the physical demands of walking and the group nature of the tour, but overall it receives very high praise for providing a memorable, enriching day trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
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