Nara: Private Deer & Todaiji Tour for Families & Groups

Experience Nara together without rushing to keep up with a large tour group. Designed for families, friends, and multi-generational groups, this private walking tour combines Nara’s famous deer, ancient temples, peaceful scenery, and fascinating cultural stories at a pace that works for everyone.

Meet your local guide at Kintetsu Nara Station and begin walking toward the historic heart of the city. Visit the grounds of Kofukuji Temple and discover how Nara became Japan’s first permanent capital. Rather than simply looking at old buildings, hear engaging stories about the people, beliefs, and traditions that shaped the city.

Continue past picturesque Sarusawa Pond and enter Nara Park, where hundreds of deer wander freely among visitors, trees, and historic landmarks. Learn why the deer have been respected for centuries and discover the safest and most enjoyable way to interact with them. If you wish, purchase official deer crackers locally and feed them to the deer while following your guide’s safety instructions. Other food should not be given to the deer.

Your guide adapts the experience to your group. Children can enjoy simple quizzes and discovery challenges, such as searching for animal symbols, learning a Japanese word, or guessing the size of the Great Buddha. Adults can explore Nara’s history and Buddhist culture in greater depth. Families with young children and groups who prefer a relaxed pace can take breaks whenever needed.

Walk through the peaceful park toward Todaiji Temple while enjoying tree-lined paths, traditional architecture, and plenty of opportunities for photographs. Your guide can use your smartphone to capture natural family and group photos, so nobody has to remain behind the camera.

Arrive at Todaiji, one of Japan’s most celebrated Buddhist temples. Step inside the Great Buddha Hall if you choose and stand before its monumental bronze Buddha—an unforgettable sight for both adults and children. Admission to the hall is paid separately.

Because the tour is completely private, there is time to ask questions, pause for photos, enjoy the deer, and experience each location without feeling hurried. The main route is carefully planned, while the walking pace, rest breaks, and amount of explanation are adjusted to suit your group.

Finish near Todaiji Temple or within Nara Park with shared memories, group photos, and a deeper understanding of one of Japan’s most historic cities. Your guide can also recommend nearby restaurants, shopping streets, and places to continue exploring after the tour.

This is more than a visit to see Nara’s deer. It is a relaxed private experience where every generation can discover, learn, and enjoy Nara together.

Feeding rule: Only official deer crackers may be given to the deer. Feeding them any other food is not allowed.

Not suitable for

• People with mobility impairments

What to bring

• Camera
• Comfortable shoes
• Weather-appropriate clothing

Not allowed

• Feeding animals

Know before you go

• Children must be supervised by a parent or guardian.
• Some areas may have uneven surfaces, gravel, slopes, or steps.
• The tour is private and can be adjusted to the group's pace.