Horyu-ji
The fully named ‘Horyu Gakumonji’ or ‘Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law’ is most commonly referred to as ‘Horyu-ji’ and is one of Japan’s most important Buddhist temples. Horyu-ji was founded by the semi-mythical Prince Shotoku – a hugely important figure in the establishment of Buddhism in Japan – in 607 and today maintains the world’s oldest-known surviving wooden structures built sometime in the Asuka Period (538-710). The extensive temple grounds are divided into two main precincts, the ‘Sai-in Garan’ (Western Precinct) and ‘Toin Garan’ (Eastern Precinct) with multiple historic buildings including gates, main halls, sub-temples and pagodas of great beauty found throughout.
1 Day Tour
| 1-Day Walking Tour in Nara: Palace, Deer and Inkstick | |
| Period | All Year Round |
| Time | 09:15 – 16:30 |
| Meeting Place | JR Nara Station |
| Adult Rate | ¥19,800 |
| Child Rate | ¥15,500 |
Nara is often overlooked in favor of cities like Kyoto and Osaka, but it’s a city full of history, culture, and natural beauty. Once Japan’s capital, Nara is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites and offers a rich mix of ancient temples, palaces, and unique traditions.
On our one-day tour, you’ll explore the Nara Palace Site Historical Park, the former imperial residence during Japan’s Nara period. After a local lunch, you’ll get hands-on experience making Nara Sumi (traditional ink), a centuries-old craft still made in the city. We’ll also visit Kasuga-taisha Shrine, known for its iconic lanterns, and spot the sacred deer roaming freely. The day ends at Todaiji Temple, home to the world’s largest bronze statue of the Great Buddha.
Join us to uncover the charm of Nara in just one day—an unforgettable journey through Japan’s past.
Within the grounds, multiple buildings rank among the oldest wooden structures in the world with temple holding a trove of treasured Buddhist sculpture and art dating from the 6th and 7th centuries – many of which are on display in the Gallery of Temple Treasures, located between the two precincts. Declared a World Heritage site in 1993, Horyu-ji should not be overlooked by any visitor to Nara.
