From sacred deer and World Heritage temples to shaded gardens and traditional sweets, Nara is the perfect summer escape. With wide-open spaces, quiet temple grounds, and a slower pace than nearby Kyoto or Osaka, this ancient capital offers a day full of meaningful experiences—without the stress of heavy crowds.
Whether you’re traveling with family, seeking cultural depth, or just craving a slower day between busy cities, this 10-hour Nara Summer Tour itinerary is crafted to help you explore with ease. Travel by private car to stay cool and comfortable between stops, and enjoy the flexibility to adjust your route as you go.
Nara Summer Tour Sample Itinerary
10 Hours Private Tour from Kyoto or Osaka with Hire Taxi Japan
(Departing at 8:00 AM, customizable to your group’s pace)
8:00 AM – Hotel Pick-Up
Your private driver will meet you at your hotel in Kyoto or Osaka. Settle into your air-conditioned vehicle and get ready for a smooth, relaxing ride to Nara.
9:00 AM – Todai-ji Temple & Nara Park
Begin your journey with one of Japan’s most awe-inspiring landmarks. Todai-ji is home to the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), a 15-meter bronze statue housed inside one of the world’s largest wooden buildings. Even in summer, the temple’s airy interior and shaded grounds make it a peaceful and comfortable visit.
Step outside into Nara Park, where over 1,000 free-roaming deer await. Buy a pack of deer crackers (“shika senbei”) and experience this charming, unforgettable interaction. The surrounding tree cover provides natural shade—perfect for a morning walk.
11:00 AM – Isuien Garden
Summer flowers and lush greenery make this spot especially photogenic in July and August. Take your time exploring the shaded paths or sit by the teahouse to enjoy the calming views.
A short walk or drive brings you to Isuien, one of Nara’s most picturesque traditional gardens. Divided into front and rear sections, the garden features ponds, stepping stones, and borrowed scenery that includes Mt. Wakakusa in the distance.
12:30 PM – Lunch Break
Popular Pick: Edogawa Naramachi – A traditional unagi (eel) restaurant nestled in a quiet Naramachi alley, serving grilled eel over rice in a refreshing tatami room.
Local Favorite (Alternative): Mentouan – Known for handmade udon noodles and cool, refreshing summer dishes like zaru udon. A quiet, no-frills spot where locals eat.
Vegan-Friendly (Alternative): Naramachi Vegan Nabi – A warm, homey spot in the Naramachi district serving creative vegan Japanese meals made with local ingredients. Ideal for a quiet, nourishing lunch.
2:00 PM – Kasuga Taisha Shrine
Next, visit the vermillion-lantern-lined paths of Kasuga Taisha, Nara’s most celebrated Shinto shrine. Nestled in a primeval forest, the shaded approach and moss-covered stone lanterns feel cool and otherworldly, even in peak summer.
Explore the inner shrine buildings, admire centuries-old bronze lanterns, and take in the sacred stillness of the ancient forest that surrounds the site.
3:30 PM – Naramachi District Walk
Step into Naramachi, a preserved Edo-era merchant district filled with traditional townhouses (machiya), artisan shops, and quiet alleys. This is a great place to pick up handmade souvenirs or visit a small local museum like the Naramachi Koshi-no-Ie House.
Many shops are covered or partially shaded, and cafés offer cold drinks and sweets like warabi mochi—perfect for a summer afternoon break.
5:00 PM – Mount Wakakusa Scenic Drive or Café Stop
If time allows and the weather is clear, your driver can take you on a short scenic drive near Mt. Wakakusa. This gentle grassy hill offers wide views of Nara City and makes for a peaceful wind-down before heading back. Alternatively, opt for a café stop in the area and rewind before the drive back.
6:00 PM – Return to Hotel or Dinner Spot
Your driver will drop you off at your hotel or a restaurant of your choice. Looking to try Nara’s famous kakinoha-zushi (persimmon leaf sushi) or local sake? Let us assist with dinner suggestions and reservations before you wrap up your perfect day.
Why Visit Nara in the Summer?
Nara is cooler and more relaxed than Japan’s major cities—making it a refreshing summer escape. Ancient temples provide shade and serenity, the deer parks are charming year-round, and traditional gardens are lush and peaceful in June through September.
Traveling by private car makes all the difference:
✔️ Stay cool and avoid long walks in the heat
✔️ Enjoy door-to-door comfort between each stop
✔️ Discover hidden spots and flexible timing with a local driver
Ready to Explore Nara with Hire Taxi Japan This Summer?
Whether you’re looking for a cultural deep dive or a relaxing day away from the crowds, our private Nara Summer Tour offers the ideal mix of history, nature, and local charm.
Book your 10-hour Nara Summer tour today—or ask us about multi-city routes that include Kyoto, Osaka, or even Mt. Fuji. Custom itineraries are available upon request.
