Nara: Discover a Giant Stone Buddha in the Forest Hills

Nara: Discover a Giant Stone Buddha in the Forest Hills
Location: Honshu, Japan
Price: $71 per person
Supplier: DeepExperience

This tour offers a peaceful escape into the mountainous outskirts of Nara—away from the crowds—and a chance to see a colossal stone Buddha that isn’t your typical tourist photo. For just over seventy dollars, you get a guided walk through Tsubosaka-dera, an ancient, secluded temple famous for its healing traditions, stunning panoramic views, and a sense of spiritual calm.

What we love about this experience is how it combines nature, history, and spirituality in one package. First, the serenity of walking among lush trees with fresh mountain air truly feels like a retreat from the busy city life. Second, the imposing stone Buddha is unlike many you’ve seen; carved with a calm expression, it radiates a quiet strength that invites reflection rather than mere admiration.

One small caveat is that the tour is located in a remote part of Nara, requiring some planning to reach the meeting point. If you’re not comfortable with walking or climbing some stairs, be prepared. Still, this tour suits travelers who enjoy authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences and are eager to explore less crowded sacred sites.

Key Points

• Secluded and peaceful setting high in the mountains provides a reflective atmosphere.
• Impressive colossal stone Buddha carved with a calm, reassuring gaze.
• Learn about healing traditions connected to the temple’s long history.
• Spectacular panoramic views of southern Nara’s green ridgelines.
• Accessible for those willing to walk, climb stairs, and enjoy nature’s silence.
• A chance to experience a side of Nara most travelers rarely see.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Quiet Sanctuary in the Mountains of Nara

When you think of Nara, images of busy deer parks and ancient temples often come to mind. This tour, however, takes you to Tsubosaka-dera, a sanctum far from the crowds. Perched high in the forested hills, it’s the sort of place where you can breathe deeply and feel connected to both nature and spirituality. The journey there is part of the charm—winding paths, stone steps, and a sense that you’re heading into a space preserved from modern noise.

The guided nature walk allows us to appreciate the peaceful surroundings while learning about the temple’s long-standing reputation as a healing site. Our guide, whose warm tone makes the history accessible, explained how the temple’s connection to eye and body healing traditions has made it a place of solace for generations.

The Highlight: The Giant Stone Buddha

The main draw here is the colossal stone Buddha—a modern masterpiece carved directly into the mountain side. It’s a quiet giant, roughly 13 meters tall, with a gentle expression that seems to invite contemplation. Unlike many Buddha statues that aim to impress with their size or glittering gold, this one’s strength lies in its simplicity and sense of serenity.

As one reviewer noted, “The stone Buddha is not designed to wow travelers but to inspire reflection.” It truly feels like a presence of calm, a reminder of the power of inner peace. It’s a valuable moment, especially for those who appreciate spiritual symbolism rooted in craftsmanship.

The Eleven-Faced Kannon: A Compassionate Focus

Inside the temple halls, the Eleven-Faced Kannon statue stands out. Known as the goddess of mercy, this figure radiates compassion. Our guide gently pointed out the intricate details of this statue, emphasizing how mercy and kindness are central themes of the temple’s tradition.

We loved the way the Kannon’s gentle gaze contrasted with the strength of the stone Buddha outside. It’s a reminder that healing isn’t just physical but also emotional and spiritual—something this temple beautifully embodies.

Panoramic Views and Natural Beauty

One of the tour’s most captivating features is the spectacular view of southern Nara’s green ridges and valleys. From the temple grounds, you can see the rolling landscape stretching into the distance, blanketed in lush foliage. The vantage point offers a different perspective of Nara, away from the urban sprawl and tourist hotspots.

As one visitor put it, “The views made the climb worth every step.” It’s a perfect place for a quiet moment, snapping photos, or simply soaking in the quiet majesty of nature.

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Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour starts in front of the Tsubosaka-dera entrance, where our guide, holding a yellow sign, greeted us warmly. From there, it’s a walk up stone steps and forest paths—expect some climbing, so comfortable shoes are a must. The entire experience lasts around 2-3 hours, making it a manageable half-day outing.

The price of $71 covers the guided tour, visits to the stone Buddha and Kannon, and the stunning viewpoints. It does not include transportation or meals, so plan accordingly. The tour operates in English and Japanese, making it accessible for international visitors.

You’ll want to bring:
– Comfortable shoes for walking and climbing
– A camera for photos of the Buddha and the views
– Water to stay hydrated in the mountain air

Note: Since the temple is in a remote area, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point. The whole experience ends back at the start, so no worries about getting lost.

Experience Provider and Booking

The tour is offered by DeepExperience, with a flexible “reserve & pay later” option, allowing you to secure your spot without immediate payment. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—a good policy for flexible travel plans.

Final Thoughts

This tour is an ideal choice for travelers who seek a tranquil, authentic experience in Nara’s mountains. It’s perfect for those interested in spiritual sites with deep healing traditions, or anyone wanting to escape the crowds and enjoy nature’s quiet beauty. The combination of the imposing stone Buddha, the mercy-filled Kannon, and breathtaking views makes it a memorable outing.

If you’re curious about Japan’s lesser-known spiritual sites or simply want a peaceful walk in a beautiful setting, this tour hits the right notes. It’s not the flashiest or most famous, but that’s what makes it special: a genuine, contemplative experience in harmony with nature.

FAQ

Is transportation to the temple included?
No, transportation is not included. Travelers need to arrange their own way to the meeting point in front of Tsubosaka-dera.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours, covering the walk, temple visits, and viewpoints.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and water are recommended to enjoy the walk and capture the views.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, as long as you’re comfortable walking and climbing stairs, this tour can suit all ages. It’s especially good for those who enjoy quiet, scenic spots.

Are there any restrictions on photography?
Photography is allowed, so feel free to bring your camera to document the stone Buddha and the gorgeous vistas.

Is the tour available in English?
Yes, the tour is conducted in both English and Japanese.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund through the booking platform.

Does the price include meals?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so plan to bring your own snacks or eat beforehand.

This guided exploration of Tsubosaka-dera offers a meaningful blend of spiritual reflection, natural beauty, and cultural insight. For those wanting to step off the busy tourist trail and connect with Japan’s peaceful mountain traditions, it’s a worthwhile investment.

You can check availability for your dates here: