Kashihara is a fascinating spot for travelers interested in Japan’s roots, offering a mix of history, culture, and local flavor. Unlike more tourist-heavy cities, Kashihara’s genuine charm shines through its ancient shrines, traditional towns, and lively bars. We particularly love the Private Guided Tour of the First Capital of Japan, which takes you back through Japan’s early history and lets you walk through the very landscapes that shaped the nation. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or someone eager to experience local life, Kashihara has a tour that fits.
In this guide, we’ll explore three top options. Each offers a different way to experience Kashihara — from its ancient shrines and legends to its contemporary nightlife. Whether you prefer a full day of cultural discovery, an evening of tasting regional dishes, or an intimate look at imperial legends, there’s something here for you.
Quick Overview
Our selection covers varied interests: the first option is a full-day, in-depth historical journey with a guide, ideal for those eager to understand Japan’s origins. Next, the Izakaya Bar Hopping offers a lively night out sampling Kashihara’s local pub scene and regional flavors. Finally, the Private Tour of Japan’s Imperial Family’s Roots provides a more focused visit to Kashihara Jingu, blending history with stunning architecture. Now, let’s look at each tour in detail.
1. Kashihara: Private Guided Tour of the First Capital of Japan
This private guided tour is a comprehensive introduction to Kashihara’s significance as Japan’s very first capital, known as Fujiwara-kyo. The 8-hour itinerary covers key sites like Kashihara Jingu, the mausoleum of Emperor Jimmu, and local spots such as Imai-cho, a traditional town filled with shops, cafes, and preserved old buildings. What makes this tour stand out is its storytelling focus — your guide will help you understand the protohistory of Japan (dating back to 660 BC) and connect it with more recent eras like the Edo and Meiji periods.
The tour begins with a pickup in Osaka, then takes you on a walking visit to Kashihara Jingu, followed by a guided walk through the mausoleum of Emperor Jimmu, Japan’s legendary first emperor. After a traditional Japanese lunch, you’ll explore the historic streets of Imai-cho and visit Jodoshinshuhonganjiha Shonen Temple, immersing you in local spiritual and cultural life. The guide’s expertise and attention to detail make this an enriching experience, especially for those interested in Japan’s early history.
The reviews give this tour a 4.4/5 rating, with travelers praising the knowledgeable guide and well-organized itinerary. It’s perfect for travelers who want a full day of discovery with plenty of walking and storytelling. The $217 price includes transportation, entrance fees, and a delicious local lunch — about what you’d pay for a longer half-day tour in Tokyo, but much more immersive.
Bottom Line: If you’re eager to understand Japan’s origins while enjoying a full day of sightseeing in Kashihara, this tour offers excellent value and deep insight.
$217 per person
2. Kashihara: Izakaya Bar Hopping Tour with Food and Drinks
For those who prefer experiencing a city’s atmosphere after dark, the Izakaya Bar Hopping Tour delivers a lively evening out. At just $141 per person, this tour takes you to two local izakayas — Japanese pubs — where you’ll sample about ¥1,000 worth of food and drinks at each stop. This isn’t a quick pub crawl, but a curated experience designed to introduce you to Kashihara’s vibrant night scene and regional flavors.
Your guide, a local with a deep knowledge of Kashihara’s gastronomy, will lead you through some of the city’s best-kept secrets, away from tourist traps. The tour emphasizes regional specialties and creative pub fare, with options that might include local sashimi, yakitori, or inventive twists on traditional dishes. Meeting locals and fellow travelers in a relaxed setting, you’ll gain insights into everyday life and cultural quirks that you won’t find in guidebooks.
The tour is best suited for adventurous eaters and social travelers who want to experience Kashihara’s nightlife authentically. The social atmosphere encourages conversation, and guests often comment on how welcoming and friendly the locals are. Since the tour is food-focused, it’s a great choice if you want both a taste of local cuisine and a fun night out.
Bottom Line: For around $140, this tour offers a relaxed, authentic way to enjoy Kashihara’s culinary scene and meet new friends in a casual, friendly setting.
$141 per person
3. Kashihara: Private Tour of Japan’s Imperial Family’s Roots
If you’re intrigued by Japan’s imperial mythology and want a more intimate, focused experience, this private tour of Kashihara Jingu offers just that. Priced at $84 per person, it provides a guided exploration of the shrine where the myths of Japan’s founding ancestors come alive. The tour covers the shrine’s stunning architecture— a prime example of traditional shrine design — and the surrounding landscape, which is lush and peaceful.
You’ll learn about the legends associated with Emperor Jimmu and Japan’s origins, blending myth with history as your guide shares stories handed down through generations. The walk along the shrine’s approach showcases traditional landscaping, stone lanterns, and sacred trees, giving you a sense of the spiritual importance of this site. The tour also offers insights into royal traditions and the significance of the shrine within Japanese culture.
Guests have noted this tour’s reviews as a meaningful and educational experience, particularly for those interested in mythology, architecture, or royal history. It’s a shorter, less physically demanding option compared to the full-day tours but provides a deep connection to Japan’s mythic past.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history enthusiasts and those interested in Japan’s imperial legends, this tour provides a compact yet rich cultural experience.
$84 per person
How to Choose
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and schedule. If you’re eager to learn about Japan’s early history and enjoy full-day exploration, the private guided tour is hard to beat. For a lively evening of regional flavors and local atmosphere, the izakaya bar-hopping offers a fun, relaxed experience. If you’re fascinated by myths, legends, and architecture and prefer a shorter, more contemplative visit, the Imperial Roots is a perfect choice.
Think about your budget, how much walking you’re comfortable with, and whether you prefer daytime sightseeing or evening socializing. Booking in advance is wise, especially during peak seasons or popular weekends.
Final Thoughts
Kashihara’s tours showcase its unique blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and living traditions. For a full immersion, the full-day private tour provides a comprehensive look at Japan’s origins. If you’re after a fun night of socializing and tasting regional dishes, the izakaya tour hits the mark. Meanwhile, the Imperial Roots tour offers a quick but meaningful glimpse into Japan’s legendary beginnings.
No matter your choice, these experiences promise a memorable visit. If you’re ready to explore Kashihara’s treasures, consider booking early — these tours fill up fast, especially during cherry blossom season or local festivals. Happy travels!