Excursion Nara unesco world heritage sites tour at Osaka

Nara was Japan’s earliest capital from 710 to 794, and many of its UNESCO-listed landmarks appear virtually unchanged from that era. The triad of plus-sized national treasures visited on this excursion are as evocative as they are impressive – and a scenic 60-minute coach drive from Osaka brings you to the start of your full day of wonders.

Todai-ji Temple

The two enormous claims to fame of Todai-ji Temple are its iconic bronze Daibutsu (Great Buddha) and the temple building that houses him. First unveiled in 752 but recast in the Edo period, the massive Buddha measures 187 ft (57 m) wide and 157 ft (48 m tall, while his enclosing building is the largest existing wooden structure on the planet. Amazingly, this “modern” mid-Edo building (1709) is only two-thirds the size of the earlier original!

Kasuga Taisha Shrine

First built in 768 by the prominent Fujiwara feudal family, this shrine holds a special place in the Nara hierarchy, honoring the deity responsible for protecting the city. In keeping with Shinto purification customs, the shrine was rebuilt every 20 years for a millennium – over 50 times. Hundreds of bronze lanterns hang from its vermilion eaves, and 2,000 stone lanterns line its pathways. You’ll enter via the main torii gate to fully experience Kasuga’s architectural style and sweeping roofline.

Horyuji Temple

Not to be outdone when it comes to superlatives, Horyuji is Japan’s oldest temple complex, and its main 7th-century building is the world’s oldest surviving wooden structure. Laboratory dating of timbers used in the site's five-tiered pagoda suggests they were felled as early as 594 AD. While here, admire an array of UNESCO-designated “important historical and cultural properties.”

You’ll spend about an hour each at Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine. The Horyuji Temple visit is around 90 minutes. A Japanese set menu lunch break will be taken at midday, with two drinks – beer, wine, sake – and soft drinks included. The transfer back to the ship at day's end takes about 75 minutes.

Points of interests

Points of Interest: Todaiji Temple & Great Buddha, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Horyuji Temple

Note

Please note: This active excursion includes a total of about 3.5 mi / 5.5 km of walking, including over cobblestones, and approximately 120 steps to negotiate at the various venues and when getting on/off the coach. The walk from the coach park to Todaiji Temple is long, and Kasuga Shrine’s main hall is on a hill. For these reasons, the excursion is not suitable for guests who utilize a wheelchair/electric scooter or have limited mobility. Children are welcome but consider whether their attention span suits such a lengthy outing. Headsets for narration are provided; be aware that local guides tend to have strong accents. Credit cards are often accepted, but carrying some Japanese yen is advisable. Wear lightweight, comfortable clothing and flat, closed-toe walking shoes. Bring your preferred sun and rain protection. The Main Sanctuary at Kasuga Shrine is closed on selected holidays throughout the year. Photos/videos are not allowed inside Horyuji Temple buildings. The order of sights and activities may vary.