Nara

NARA, JAPAN

For an unparalleled experience in Nara, secure the services of our amiable local tour guides. They excel at guiding you through the city, immersing you in the local ambiance. Whether you’re inclined towards iconic tourist spots or off-the-beaten-path discoveries, our Guides4me guides are ready to transform your preferences into reality. Feel the city’s pulse and unravel unique experiences under their expert guidance.

Karim

Karim is 34 years old and speaks Japanese, English, Hindi, Urdu, Persian and Pashto.

Originally from Afghanistan, Karim has been living in Osaka since 2022, and from day one, he’s embraced Japan with open arms and an open heart. His deep love for the country’s culture, history, and people is contagious, and it shines through in every tour he leads.

More than just a guide. He’s a storyteller, a local expert, and a warm, welcoming presence who’s always eager to share the real Japan. Whether he’s leading you through the serene temples of Kyoto, the nostalgic streets of Nara, or the buzzing neighbourhoods and food stalls of Osaka, Karim makes every step of the journey meaningful and fun.

He knows where to find the hidden gems and those quiet spots off the beaten path, the local eateries only the residents know about, and the stories behind Japan’s most iconic landmarks. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveller, Karim will help you experience Japan like never before. With Karim as your guide, you’re not just seeing Japan. Above all, you’re connecting with it.

Total cost for the guide services of Karim for a full day (8 hours) = a booking fee of USD 33 via Paypal, debit / credit cards, bank transfer or Crypto Currency plus USD 100 in cash to Karim after his services. This makes a total of USD 133.

This excludes any transport, entrance fees or any food & beverage costs.

“Karim was a brilliant guide, he arranged everything for us, we had a brilliant time with him, only wish we could have stayed longer” – Martin, USA.

Our other destinations in Japan are Kyoto, Osaka and Tokyo.

Exploring Nara: A Peaceful Journey Through History and Culture

Tucked away in the Kansai region of Japan. Nara is a city steeped in ancient tradition and tranquil beauty. As Japan’s first permanent capital, it played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s early history and remains a cultural treasure trove today. Just under an hour from Kyoto or Osaka, Nara offers travellers a unique opportunity to step into the past while enjoying modern Japanese hospitality and charm.

Things to See and Do in Nara

A visit to Nara isn’t complete without a trip to Nara Park. Home to over a thousand friendly, free-roaming deer considered sacred messengers of the gods. Visitors can buy special “shika senbei” (deer crackers) to feed them and enjoy close encounters in this picturesque setting.

One of the park’s highlights is Todai-ji Temple. This houses the Daibutsu (Great Buddha), one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world. The sheer scale and spiritual presence of this UNESCO World Heritage site make it a must-see.

Nearby, Kasuga Taisha Shrine offers a quieter, more mystical experience. With its forested paths lined with thousands of moss-covered stone lanterns. For those interested in traditional Japanese gardens, Isuien Garden and Yoshikien Garden provide peaceful escapes filled with seasonal beauty.

Art and history lovers can explore the Nara National Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Buddhist art and artifacts, especially during its annual exhibitions in autumn.

The People and the Food

Nara’s residents are known for their warmth and quiet hospitality. While the city attracts many tourists, it retains a slower pace of life compared to Tokyo or Osaka. Therefore making it a perfect place to observe local customs and daily life. Many shopkeepers and locals are proud of their heritage and enjoy sharing the city’s history and traditions with visitors.

As for cuisine, Nara offers a delicious introduction to regional Japanese food. Don’t miss kakinoha sushi (sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves), a local specialty, or a bowl of narazuke, a type of pickled vegetable made with sake lees. For something sweet, try kuzu mochi or yomogi mochi, chewy rice cakes often flavored with mugwort and filled with sweet bean paste.

Why You Should Hire a Japanese-Speaking Local Tour Guide

While it’s possible to explore Nara on your own, booking a Japanese-speaking local tour guide can elevate your experience significantly. Many of Nara’s cultural and historical sites come alive through the stories, symbolism, and deeper meanings that guides can share insights often lost in translation or overlooked by self-guided tours. Local guides can also help you interact with residents, navigate hidden gems, and introduce you to off-the-beaten-path eateries or artisan workshops that you might not discover on your own.

Most importantly, having a Japanese-speaking guide can bridge language and cultural gaps, creating a more enriching, respectful, and memorable journey through one of Japan’s most historic cities.

A map of local hotels with discounts up to 60%

The Cheapest Flights to Kansai, per month