A 2-Day Cultural Exploration Tour: Treasures of Kohfukuji Temple and Traditional Crafts of Nara

On this two-day tour, immerse yourself in the profound history and craftsmanship of Nara. We offer a journey that allows you to deeply engage with the beauty and traditions of this ancient city through exclusive experiences only available on this tour. You will surely feel the historical depth, cultural richness, and spiritual essence of old Nara.

The first day focuses on the essential role of Kohfukuji Temple in the history of Japanese Buddhism. With a Nara-certified interpreter-guide and cutting-edge Kohfukuji Temple tourist visual guide, you'll explore the splendid history that has been woven from ancient to modern times. At the majestic “Chukondo” Central Golden Hall of Kohfukuji, you can admire Buddhist art treasures that have been revered for over a thousand years, overwhelming you with their profound historical weight. After delving into the history of Kohfukuji, a visit to Kasuga Taisha Shrine and the Nara National Museum will deepen your understanding of the temple’s significant ties with Nara’s history. To conclude the day, experience the special opportunity to ring the temple bell at Kohfukuji, marking a personal moment of becoming a part of Nara's historical timeline.

The second day is dedicated to exploring Nara’s traditional crafts, where you will create your own traditional craft work under the guidance of local artisans. Engage in ink-making and calligraphy at Kinkoen, delving into the depths of Japan’s writing culture to craft a unique piece of your own. After lunch, visit Wahokudo Tango Tanimura, where you will experience a “Chasen” tea whisk, an essential tool sustaining the Japanese tradition of tea ceremony. These encounters with artisans transcend ordinary activities, offering a profound opportunity to learn about the spirituality embedded in Japanese culture.

This tour promises a journey of deep learning and new discoveries, blending the complexities and richness of Nara’s traditions and modern culture. Surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of beautiful nature and historic monuments, you will encounter Japan’s cultural heritage, making your visit to Japan truly exceptional.

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.

◎ Kohfukuji Temple Admission Fee
◎ Kasuga Taisha Shrine Admission Fee
◎ Nara Buddhist Sculpture Hall, Nara National Museum Admission Fee
◎ Bell Ringing Experience at Kohfukuji Temple
◎ “Nigirizumi” Ink-Making Experience
◎ Tea Whisk-Making Experience and Tea Ceremony
◎ English-Speaking Guide
× Lunch, dinner, and other food and beverage expenses
× Transportation costs

□ Day 1 (8h)

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

11:30～ Visit the Kohfukuji Temple’s grounds and Chukondo Central Golden Hall.
　　　　　*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)

15:00～ Feed the deers “shika senbei” deer crackers; Ukimido Pavilion.

16:00～ Nara Buddhist Sculpture Hall, Nara National Museum.

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

18:00～ End of the tour.

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

□ Day 2（6.5h）

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

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

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

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

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

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