Nara Autumn Tour 2025: Full-Day Journey Through Temples, Parks & Brilliant Fall Colors

8:30 AM – Hotel Pick-Up in Kyoto or Osaka

Your English-speaking driver will meet you at your hotel for a seamless start. Settle into your private, air-conditioned car for the relaxing journey to Nara. Along the way, your driver can share insights and adjust the schedule to your preferences.

9:30 AM – Todaiji Temple & Nara Park

Begin your exploration at Todaiji Temple, home to the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), one of Japan’s most impressive cultural treasures. The massive wooden hall, surrounded by ancient trees, feels even more majestic in autumn as the grounds are framed by fiery red maples.

Step outside and you’ll find yourself in Nara Park, where over 1,000 friendly, free-roaming deer await. Feeding the deer with special “shika senbei” crackers is a favorite activity for visitors of all ages. In autumn, the park’s wide lawns and scattered ginkgo trees create a golden carpet, making it a magical place to stroll and take photos.

12:00 PM – Lunch Break

Refuel with a seasonal meal at one of these local favorites:

• Popular Pick: Edogawa Naramachi – Known for its delicious unagi (grilled eel) served in lacquered boxes, paired with rice and pickles. A perfect treat after a morning of walking.
  
• Local Favorite: Kasuga Ninai Jaya – A traditional teahouse near Kasuga Taisha serving specialties like kaki-no-ha sushi (sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves) and seasonal sweets.
  
• Vegan-Friendly: Kinatei – A peaceful vegan café offering beautifully presented set meals made with tofu, vegetables, and seasonal produce from the Nara region.

1:30 PM – Kasuga Taisha Shrine & Primeval Forest

Next, visit the enchanting Kasuga Taisha Shrine, famous for its hundreds of stone lanterns and vermilion halls. In autumn, the approach to the shrine is lined with maples and ginkgo trees, their colors glowing against the red-orange of the shrine buildings. The surrounding Kasugayama Primeval Forest, a sacred area untouched for centuries, is also a wonderful place to wander amidst seasonal colors.

This part of Nara feels especially atmospheric in autumn, blending spiritual serenity with natural beauty.

3:00 PM – Isuien Garden

Continue to Isuien Garden, one of Nara’s most beautiful landscaped gardens. Divided into two sections—a front garden from the 17th century and a larger back garden from the 19th century—it’s designed to frame views of Todaiji’s Nandaimon Gate and Mt. Wakakusa in the distance. Autumn enhances its beauty, as vibrant maples reflect in the ponds and contrast with mossy stone lanterns.

Isuien is also home to the Neiraku Art Museum, which showcases Asian ceramics, offering an optional cultural stop within the garden grounds.

4:00 PM – Mount Wakakusa (Optional Hike or Scenic Stop)

For panoramic views, head to Mount Wakakusa, located just behind Nara Park. You can choose a gentle walk up the hillside or enjoy the views from the base. In autumn, the slopes are dotted with seasonal colors, and from the top, you’ll see Nara’s historic temples and the surrounding countryside framed by fiery foliage. It’s the perfect way to end the day surrounded by autumn scenery.

5:00 PM – Return to Hotel

Relax in your private car as your driver takes you back to your hotel in Osaka or Kyoto. Use the ride to rest, reflect on the day, or browse your photos of Nara’s autumn beauty. Drop-off is available at your hotel or another central location of your choice.