Excursion Nara unesco world heritage sites tour at Osaka

Discover a pair of magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Sites during this scenic, half-day sightseeing excursion to Nara.

Osaka, Nara, Todaiji Temple, Great Buddha Image, Free-Roaming Deer

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 70-minute drive to the Todaiji Temple. The temple is famous for its great copper image of Buddha, the symbol of Nara. With a height of approximately 59 feet (about 18 metres) from the ground, this Buddha image was the largest in the world at the time of its completion in 752 A.D. The temple building itself is the largest existing wooden structure in the world. Reconstructed in the mid-Edo Period (1603-1867), it measures approximately 187 feet (about 57 metres) in width and approximately 157 feet (about 48 metres) in height. Whilst strolling through the temple, you may see many deer. They are considered messengers of the gods in the Shinto religion and are allowed to roam freely here.

Kasuga Taisha Shrine, 2,000 Stone Lanterns, Torii Gate, Colourful Halls

Leaving the temple, your next stop is the Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Originally constructed in 768 A.D. by the Fujiwaras, a prominent feudal family, this shrine has been rebuilt over 50 times in accordance with Shinto custom to purify the site. More than 2,000 stone lanterns line the pathways, and are lit only three times a year on special festival days. Upon arrival, pass through the Torii Gate to experience the unique architectural style of the shrine, including the shape of the roof and brilliant vermilion and green halls. Following your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Osaka, Nara, Todaiji Temple, Great Buddha Image, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, 2,000 Stone Lanterns, Torii Gate, Colourful Halls

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 2.5 miles (about four kilometres), at times over uneven, cobblestone, and natural surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, 20 steps at the Todaiji Temple and 50 steps at the Kasuga Taisha Shrine. This tour is not suitable for guests prone to motion sickness, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, a sweater or light jacket, bottled water, and Japanese Yen or credit cards for purchases from the ship. Although credit cards are mostly accepted, Japanese Yen is required for any purchases; guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior to the cruise. Proper attire is required to enter temples and shrines; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. Guests must be at least 12 years old to participate on this tour; minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 18 years old. Guests must be at least 20 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. Infrastructure in Osaka may be basic, and local conditions may be challenging; coaches, guides, hotels, restaurants, equipment, and services are the best-available in the area, but may not be up to the standards of those found on other ports. Therefore, we urge flexibility and understanding as we visit unique, less-touristic destinations. The cost of providing a tour programme in this area is proportionately more expensive than in neighbouring regions, as vehicles and guides are brought in from the whole region. This may be reflected in the prices of the tours, and we thank you for your understanding. Additional beverages are available at the restaurant at each guest’s own expense. Photography/videography is not permitted inside the Main Shrine at the Kasuga Taisha Shrine. The driving time between the pier and sites visited is approximately 60 minutes-70 minutes in each direction. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. The tour sequence may vary.