【Custom Tour】Nara’s Hidden Treasures and Craft Heritage

This two-day tour offers an in-depth experience that immerses you in the beauty of Nara’s history and traditional craftsmanship. *The tour and experiences can be customized to suit your preferences.

On Day 1, explore the rich history and Buddhist culture of Nara. Accompanied by a licensed Nara guide, you will visit Kohfukuji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and the Nara National Museum, where you can admire exquisite Buddhist art treasures with over a thousand years of history. At Kohfukuji Temple, you will participate in exclusive experiences available only on this tour, including a personal guided tour by the monks and a bell-ringing experience—moments that will create unforgettable memories.

The second day will allow you to delve into the world of Nara’s traditional crafts. You will learn the skills of masters and the exquisiteness of Japanese culture as you create your own “nigirizumi” ink and practice calligraphy at Kinko-en, and learn the art of making tea whisks at Wahokudo Tango Tanimura. Participating in these workshops will allow you to connect directly with Japan’s traditions and appreciate their refined beauty. Interacting with the artisans will leave you with lasting impressions of their delicate techniques and warm personalities.

Enjoy an unforgettable journey of learning and discovery as you experience the rich culture of Nara.

Kohfukuji Temple is a historic temple founded in 710 when the capital of Nara was established. As the main temple of the Hosso sect of Buddhism, many national ceremonies have been held at Kohfukuji since the Nara period (710-794), and the temple has been deeply involved in the culture and history of the ancient capital of Nara. The temple preserves many masterpieces of Buddhist art, including the Ashura statue, a national treasure which tells the history of Buddhism in Japan. The Chukondo (Central Golden Hall), in particular, is one of the central buildings of Kohfukuji Temple and houses many exquisite Buddhist statues as well as magnificent architecture. In addition, its splendid five-story pagoda and charming gardens offer visitors beautiful scenery throughout the four seasons, symbolizing the harmony between Nara's history and nature.

Every day, the bell of Kofukuji temple rings out at set times—morning, noon, and night—marking the passage of time for the local community for over a thousand years. This tour offers a rare opportunity to personally strike this historic bell. As you ring the bell at 6 PM, you will not only experience a piece of Kohfukuji's long and rich history, but also create a truly memorable moment.

You will be guided personally by the monks of Kohfukuji Temple through the impressive “Chukondo” Central Golden Hall. This unique opportunity allows you to learn directly from the monks about the history and culture of the Chukondo, as well as the Buddhist teachings passed down through generations at Kohfukuji. Of course, they will also be happy to answer any questions you might have! Surrounded by the temple’s mysteries, you will be able to experience a profound sense of spirituality.

□ Day 1 (8h)
*The contents of the tour and experiences offered can be tailored to accommodate your preferences. If you have any specific requests or questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us!

• 11:00～ Meet in front of Kintetsu Nara Station: General explanations and start of the tour.

• 11:30～ Visit Kohfukuji Temple using the Kohfukuji Temple Tourist Visual Guide.

• 13:00〜 Lunch *We will be happy to recommend restaurants for you.

• 14:00～ Kasuga Taisha Shrine (Visit of the Main Hall)
  
  
  
• 15:30～ Nara Buddhist Sculpture Hall, Nara National Museum.

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• 17:00～【Only available in November】
  Special experience at Kohfukuji Temple (Visit to the Chukondo Hall with the monks)

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• 17:45～ Special Experience at Kohfukuji Temple (Bell Ringing Experience).

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• 18:00～ End of the tour.

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• 18:30～ Dinner *We will be happy to recommend restaurants for you.

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  □ Day 2（6.5h）
  
  

• 10:00～ Meet in front of Kintetsu Nara Station/JR Nara Station

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• 10:30～ Hands-on “Nigirizumi” ink-making at Kinkoen＋ Calligraphy experience.

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• 12:00〜 Lunch　*We will be happy to recommend restaurants for you.

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• 13:00～ Travel by taxi to Wahokudo Tango Tanimura.

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• 14:00～ Tea whisk making experience at Wahokudo Tango Tanimura + Tea ceremony experience.

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• 16:30～ End of the tour・Disband on site and head to your own destination *Taxis can be arranged.

〇 Vanessa, Belgium
I think this tour creates very special memories to the participants. Also the fact to go back home with your own creation is great. Personally, I know I will cherish these memories forever.
After these two days, I feel extremely refreshed and re-energised. I will remember these two days, the encounter, the generosity of the different masters

〇 Elodie, France
The tour was really interesting and “complete” in the sense that we saw traditional things that tourists expect to see. I enjoyed every activities.

〇 Jessica, Indonesia
It was a very deep and entertaining experience, so we know how chasen was made and can appreciate the beauty of Japanese culture.

◎ English-Speaking Guide
◎ Kohfukuji Temple Admission Fee
◎ Kohfukuji Temple Tourist Visual Guide
◎ [November only] Personal tour of Kohfukuji’s Chukondo Hall by the temple monks
◎ Bell Ringing Experience at Kohfukuji Temple
◎ Kasuga Taisha Shrine Admission Fee
◎ Nara Buddhist Sculpture Hall, Nara National Museum Admission Fee
◎ “Nigirizumi” Ink-Making Experience
◎ Tea Whisk-Making Experience and Tea Ceremony
× Lunch, dinner, and other food and beverage expenses
× Transportation costs

• Your reservation will be confirmed upon a reply from Sharing Kyoto.
• Please book at least 7 business days in advance so that we can build the best experience for you.
• Applicants must be at least 18 years old to apply. Minors must obtain the consent of a parent or guardian before applying. Elementary school children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
• The experience may be canceled or postponed at short notice, or the content may be changed due to traffic conditions, etc.
• We may share your responses to surveys and reviews on our social networking sites and media.

• Free of charge for cancellations up to 8 days prior to the tour date, 100% for cancellations 7 days or less prior to the tour date.
• Special Cases (Natural disaster, virus, etc.): Full refund.
• Bank transfer fees for refunds in the event of cancellation due to the customer’s circumstances will be borne by the customer.