Private Full-Day Nara Tour Hozanji Temple Cable Car and Nara Park
I’ll guide you up a sacred mountain, through ancient forests, and to Nara’s Great Buddha. As a specialist in Buddhist art, I offer a private, slow-paced tour that blends history, nature, and spiritual insight—ideal for travelers who want more than just sightseeing.
Options
Private Full-Day Nara Tour Hozanji Temple Cable Car and Nara Park
What's included in Private Full-Day Nara Tour Hozanji Temple Cable Car and Nara Park
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Kintetsu Ikoma Cable Car
We'll start our adventure by riding the charming cat and dog cable cars—Mi-ke and Bull—up scenic Mount Ikoma.
Hozan-ji Temple
I will guide you to Hōzanji Temple, which sits on the forested slopes of Mt. Ikoma—a sacred place that has been visited for prayer for over a thousand years. Hōzanji was established in 1678 and features many beautiful halls and statues. As you walk up the stone steps, you’ll pass rows of moss-covered Buddhist figures leading to a breathtaking view of Nara.
Kofuku-ji Temple
We'll walk through the grounds of Kōfuku-ji, an important temple that played a major role in the early development of Buddhism in Japan. I’ll explain its history as the head temple of the Hossō school and how it influenced Buddhist thought in Nara. We’ll view the main halls from outside and take time to enjoy the atmosphere, but we won’t enter the paid areas unless requested.
Inclusions
- Todaiji admission fee 600yen per person
- cable car and train from ikoma to kintetsu-nara 940 yen per person
- Guide to Japanese Buddhism booklet
- English-speaking guide with expertise in Buddhist art
- Lunch
- Snacks
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Not recommended for young children and people who cannot walk long distances.
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting Points
- Exit the ticket gates and I’ll be waiting outside with a sign that says “Metta Guide Japan” (or your name, if preferred). Whether you’re coming via the Kintetsu Nara Line or Osaka Metro Chūō Line, follow the signs for the main (north) exit.
End Points
- The tour ends at Kintetsu Nara Station (or JR Nara Station if more convenient for your travel plans). Your guide will help you get oriented and set up for your next destination—whether it's Kyoto, Osaka, or beyond.
