Nara - Heart of Nature Bike Tour: Explore Japan's Hidden Treasures
4.9
18 Ratings
Nara
Discover the hidden treasures of Nara on a heart-pumping bike tour. From reaching the top of Wakakusayama Mountain to exploring a lost temple in the forest, this unique experience combines sport, nature, and Japanese history.
Duration: 6 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Nigatsu-do Temple - This temple, located near Todaiji, is where they celebrate the ritual of water once a year. There, you get to the main balcony for a nice view on Todaiji area and also get a calligraphy expert to sign your “Seal book” if you have one.
  • Kikuichi Monju Shiro Kanenaga - We will give you info about japanese history in Nara, essentially craft like calligraphy and knives. You’ll visit a traditional knife shop with a 750 years history and can even try the blade on paper.
    If you wish, you can buy knives and get tax refund directly. Also, you can get your name engraved on the blade in Japanese characters for free as you’ll be with us (If the staff is working that day).
  • Wakakusayama Hill - We reach the top of Wakakusayama and get a mind blowing vision of Nara for a “one of a kind” picture spot during this tour.
    Snack and water refill provided when we reach the top. Go for the reward !
  • 興福寺別院鶯滝歓喜天 - In this long forgotten temple, called “Kyofukuji”, in the middle of the forest, you’ll admire how nature progressivelly takes the area back. The mix of buddhist architecture and nature provide a unique harmony that is very hard to find.
  • Uguisu Waterfall - We will walk a few minutes to reach “Uguisuno Falls”, a waterfall with an old and preserved bridge in the middle of the forest. Mind the wild life, as you mind make some new friends (See our adorable 8 legs friend).
  • Mt. Kasuga Sekkutsubutsu - Discover hidden buddhist statues carved in stone in The forest of Kasugayama. These remains of an old buddhist community are now protected and can be seen by those who are willing to walk or ride in the mountain long enough to reach its location
  • Sagi Pond - Beautiful and peaceful pond located south of Nara Park, just away from the main touristic spots. Ideal for a last picture and finish the tour with a great smile.
What's Included
  • Bike gear, including helmet, cycling sunglasses
  • Bottled water
  • Bilingual local guide
  • All fees and/or taxes
  • Bicycle use
What's Not Included
  • Any shopping extra, souvenirs, snacks, drinks
  • Lunch
Additional Information

Embark on a solitary journey in Nara, pedaling through its paths, ascend the heights of Wakakusayama Mountain, discover an ancient temple lost in the woods, marvel at concealed stone sculptures of Buddhist deities… A trip blending physical activity, natural surroundings and historic tales of Japan for an unparalleled experience and unforgettable souvenirs.

  • While single travelers can book this tour directly, there is a “2 guests minimum” rule to give the tour a GO. in case of a single guest, the session might be cancelled and the guest will be notify as soon as possible, offering a rescheduling, or a full-refund.
  • Not recommended for children under 14 years old (please contact us for specific request)
Location
Japan Tour Adventure in Nara
We are near "TOICHISHOGAKKO" Bus stop, a few minutes off the city center. BY BUS

: Weekday: Buses Number 
62 : 09:00 --> 09:03 --> 09:17
 57 : 09:30 --> 09:33 --> 09:47

 Sat/Sun/Holliday : Bus Number 62 - 09:00 --> 09:03 --> 09:17 - 09:20 --> 09:23 --> 09:37 - 09:40 --> 09:43 --> 09:57
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.9
(18 Ratings)
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Sallytaher
Mar 10, 2024
We made one of the best choices we could have made by riding throughout the city. - One of the cities in Japan that absolutely cannot be missed is Nara. The beauty of the city lies in the fact that it mixes the art of religious places with nature, with a large number of deer. Considering that Nara is a very large city and that we want to see a lot of fascinating places, the most effective method to explore the city is by bicycle with a tour guide.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
David_d
Nov 16, 2023
A perfect day in the forest. - Such a memorable day away from the crowds out in the stunningly beautiful forests next to Nara. Elodie our guide was great. So personable, informative, encouraging. Some challenging hills to climb but the hybrid bikes (and we in our 60's) were up to it. No ebike option so expect some huffing and puffing but who doesn't like that!
Review provided by Viator
Sashoh_tht
Aug 18, 2023
An athletic discovery of Kasugayama Forest - It was a very fun day with Rémi, we discovered things we wouldn’t have thought of visiting otherwise ! Overall, it was a great experience with plenty of great sights to look at. But be prepared, as they are some steep trails that can be a bit hard if you’re not prepared enough (nothing impossible though, it will just be more tiring for you and your muscles).
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Neilmot
Jul 7, 2023
Worth the Challenge - Although the uphill ride was demanding, our guides were very patient and helpful. Each stop on the road was uniquely fascinating and beautiful; providing more than enough respite and encouragement for us to continue the trail. The downhill ride back was incredibly fun and refreshing.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
726alwynm
Jul 7, 2023
One of a kind experience - I will never forget this experience! Being able to see Nara from the mountain, the mysterious cave carvings, the path of the samuri, and more was truly one of a kind. It felt extremely special to get that privilege. Great if you are looking for a tour truly off the beaten path and full of funny little creatures. The primeval forest is jaw droppingly beautiful and our guides were knowledgeable, patient, and a delight to spend the day with. Like the other reviews say, it is definitely a fitness challenge but ends on such a high note by cruising down the mountain after toiling up. I really loved the cruise back to the tour station as well through the local streets. It was a great balance of history, nature, and working out. I recommend it highly. I just finished the tour a few hours ago and still feel energized by the great experience.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Terence_g
Mar 12, 2023
Great workout in nature! - What a terrific work out and what a beautiful forest experience! I loved getting out of the city and climbing some hills. The hidden carved Buddhas and ruined temple in the forest were real pluses. Rémi paced me well, and gave me lots of insights into the natural world, as well as Japanese history and culture. He was also just a great companion on our ride. if you want to shake off the “yet another temple” feeling and get yourself moving, this is the experience for you!
Review provided by Viator
Yui315
Oct 29, 2022
Nara has secrets - Great experience in Nara ! Bicycles are brand new. The guide, Kalin is passionate and very kind. We had peaceful moment in the magic forest and its little secrets.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Thehappytravelingmom
Sep 6, 2022
YOU WILL NEVER FORGET THE DEER ! - This tour was engaging and captivating. We saw so many different places, from shrines to deer and everything in-between. When you are traveling to a new country, learning about what your are seeing takes the experience to the next level. The tour itself was super organized and there were many stops along the way to take pictures and learn from your WALKING ENCYCLOPEDIA, I mean guide- Remi. Did I mention he has a good sense of humor, too? Remi is one of kind. He cares about the quality of his tours, and makes your feel like family. The only sad part of the day was saying goodbye. We didn't want the tour to end. We highly recommend this tour, and the bikes are BRAND NEW! Great guide and sweet ride!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Phil
Jun 12, 2022
Beautiful nature with beautiful climbs! - Had a great tour with Japan Tour Adventure / ジャパンツアーアドベンチャー yesterday. Highly recommend it to people who want a combination of cycling, history and nature. Beautiful views, shaded climbs and a lot of fun.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Yuki_fujisawa
Jun 12, 2022
Physically demanding, yet it’s worth it. - With this tour, you can explore the forest which is actually a part of the World Heritage site. As it’s annexed to one of the most important Shinto shrines of Nara city, the forest is kept intact for well over 1,000 years, and it’s a great opportunity to find out the beauty of the hidden path in the city. Also the view from the top of Wakakusa mountain is astonishing. Though I probably need to point out that this tour is rather for those who regularly ride bikes and have energy to clime a few hills by bikes. If you ride bikes just occasionally, you might not be able to get the most of it. For me, I really enjoyed the tour. It was a wonderful way to find out the nature while staying in an ancient capital of Japan.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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up to 10 guests
1 Adult
May 2024
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