【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. At Kohfukuji Temple, we offer two unique activities: a meditation session in the currently closed “Tokondo” Eastern Golden Hall and an “omamori” amulet-making workshop (available only on December 5th and 19th). With a monk personally guiding each session, these programs provide a rare opportunity to learn something that can only be experienced in this sacred setting.

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.

In this workshop, you will have the rare opportunity to create your own “omamori” amulet, learning directly from the head priest about its history and how to make it. Write your wish on a “gomagi” prayer stick and create a unique amulet, filled with your hopes and prayers. By crafting your own amulet, you will gain insight into Japanese faith and craftsmanship, and experience a calming and refreshing moment for your mind.

You will have exclusive access to the “Tokondo” Eastern Golden Hall, currently closed to the public, with a personal tour led by a monk from Kohfukuji Temple. Through the monk's guidance, you will discover the temple's structure, learn about Buddhist history, and understand the proper etiquette for worship. Then, in this private temple setting, you will learn how to sit with correct posture and practice Buddhist meditation techniques to calm your mind. By regulating your breath and mindset, this experience will provide an opportunity to refresh your spirit—an experience that can only be had on this specific day and in this unique location.

□ Day 1 (6h)
*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!

• 10:00～ Meet in front of Kintetsu Nara Station: General explanations and start of the tour.


• 10:30～ A guided tour of Kohfukuji Temple will be conducted using the Kohfukuji Temple Tourist Visual Guide.



• 11:30～ Kasuga Taisha Shrine (Visit of the Main Hall)

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

14:00～ Exclusive experience at the “Tokondo” Eastern Golden Hall


15:00～ “Omamori” amulet-making workshop



• 16:00～ End of the tour.

□ 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 Tourist Visual Guide
◎【Only in December】Private Tour of the “Tokondo” with a Monk: Guided Tour of the Hall, Explanation of Buddhist History, and Ritual Etiquette ◎ “Nigirizumi” Ink-Making Experience
◎ Tea Whisk-Making Experience and Tea Ceremony
× Kohfukuji Temple Admission Fee
× Kasuga Taisha Shrine Admission Fee
× 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.