Nara - Discovering Japan

Travelling to Nara

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Nara, a pretty good destination in Japan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Nara and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Nara, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Japan, here's everything to know about Nara for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Nara

Nara is a city located in the Kansai region of Japan, famous for its ancient temples, shrines, and traditional Japanese gardens. It was the first permanent capital of Japan from 710 to 794 and has a rich cultural history dating back to the 8th century. Among the most popular attractions in Nara are the Todai-ji Temple, which houses the largest bronze statue of Buddha in the world, and the Nara Park, where visitors can interact with the friendly deer that roam freely. Nara also has a thriving food scene, with traditional Japanese cuisine like sushi, ramen, and wagashi sweets. Being just an hour away from Kyoto and Osaka by train, Nara makes for a great day trip or weekend getaway destination.

What to visit in Nara

Sure, here are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Nara, Japan: 1. Nara Park - It is a large park, famous for its free-roaming deer that visitors can feed and interact with. The park also has various shrines and temples, including the Todai-ji temple, which houses the world's largest bronze statue of Buddha.
2. Todai-ji Temple - It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Japan's most famous and historically significant temples. The temple is famous for its massive bronze statue of Buddha, which measures 15 meters in height.
3. Kasuga-taisha Shrine - It is a Shinto shrine known for its many lanterns that hang from the buildings and trees. The shrine dates back to the 8th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
4. Nara National Museum - The museum houses a large collection of Buddhist art and artifacts, including statues of Buddha, calligraphy, and scrolls from the Heian and Kamakura periods.
5. Kofuku-ji Temple - It is a Buddhist temple that dates back to the 7th century and is famous for its five-storied pagoda (one of the tallest in Japan). The temple also has a museum that displays some of its artworks and artifacts.
6. Isuien Garden - A traditional Japanese garden that dates back to the 17th century. It has two parts: a front garden (shin-en) with pond and a garden on a hill (to-in).
7. Yoshiki-en Garden - It is a peaceful and serene Japanese garden that is less crowded than other gardens in Nara.
All of these tourist attractions have their own unique charm and provide visitors with a glimpse into the rich culture and history of Nara, Japan.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Japan, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Nara.

When to go on holiday to Nara

The best time to visit Nara is during the spring months of March to May or in the autumn months of September to November. During these times, the weather is milder, and you can see the beauty of the cherry blossoms in spring or the colorful autumn foliage in fall.
However, it's important to note that these seasons are also the peak travel times, so expect crowds and higher prices. If you want to avoid the crowds, you can visit in the winter months of December to February, or during the summer months of June to August, but be prepared for extreme temperature conditions during these months.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Nara

There are several ways to get to Nara from different parts of Japan.
From Tokyo: - By Air: Take a flight from Tokyo Haneda Airport to Osaka Itami Airport, then take a bus or train to Nara.
- By Bullet Train: Take a shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Kyoto Station, then transfer to the JR Nara Line and take a train to Nara Station.
From Osaka: - By Train: Take the JR Yamatoji Line or the Kintetsu Nara Line from Osaka Station to Nara Station.
- By Bus: Take a bus from Osaka Bus Terminal (Umeda) or Namba OCAT to Nara Station.
From Kyoto: - By Train: Take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station to Nara Station.
- By Bus: Take a bus from Kyoto Station to Nara Station.
Once you arrive at Nara Station, you can take a local bus, taxi, or walk to your desired destination.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Nara, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Nara

Here are some typical foods of Nara, Japan: 1. Kakinoha-zushi: This is a type of sushi where fish, vegetables, and other ingredients are placed on top of vinegared rice and wrapped in persimmon leaves.
2. Somen: This is a thin, white noodle made from wheat flour and served cold in the summer, usually with a light dipping sauce.
3. Mochi: This is a sticky rice cake made by pounding glutinous rice into a paste and molding it into various shapes and sizes.
4. Kudzu-mochi: This is a type of mochi made with kudzu root starch, resulting in a softer, chewier texture than regular mochi.
5. Narazuke: This is a type of pickled vegetable that is unique to Nara, made by pickling vegetables in a mixture of sake, soy sauce, and other seasonings.
6. Kakinoha-manju: This is a type of steamed bun filled with sweet bean paste and wrapped in persimmon leaves.
7. Yamato soba: This is a type of buckwheat noodle that is a specialty of the Yamato region in Nara, served hot in a flavorful broth.
8. Chagayu: This is a simple rice porridge flavored with tea, often eaten for breakfast or as a light meal.
You can find general info about typical foods in Japan here.

Is Nara an expensive destination for tourists?

Nara can be an expensive destination for tourists, but it really depends on the type of trip you're looking for. Accommodation, food, and transportation costs can be relatively high in Nara, especially if you stay in a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) or eat at high-end restaurants. However, there are ways to reduce costs, such as staying in budget hostels or guesthouses, eating at local markets or street food stalls, and using public transportation instead of taxis. Additionally, many of Nara's main attractions, such as its temples and parks, are free or have low admission fees.
Overall, Nara can be an affordable destination if you plan ahead and budget appropriately.

Where to find accomodation in Nara

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Nara in Japan are: 1. Nara City Center - This area is close to the main attractions of Nara, including the Todai-ji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and Nara Park. There are plenty of hotels and guesthouses here, making it a convenient choice for visitors.
2. Kintetsu Nara Station - This is the main train station in Nara, and there are many hotels and guesthouses near the station. This area is a good choice for those who want easy access to other parts of Japan, as there are frequent train services to Kyoto, Osaka, and other cities.
3. Naramachi - This is the old town area of Nara, with traditional buildings and a historic atmosphere. There are several hotels and guesthouses here, and it's a great place to stay if you want to experience the traditional side of Nara.
4. Horyuji Temple Area - This area is a bit further from the city center, but it's home to the famous Horyuji Temple and several other temples. There are a few hotels and ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) here, and it's a good choice for those who want a quieter, more peaceful stay.
You can check hotel prices at Nara here:
Booking.com

Is Nara a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Nara is considered a very safe place for tourists in Japan. It has a low crime rate and a welcoming atmosphere towards tourists. However, as with any place in the world, it is always wise to take basic precautions to ensure your safety, such as securing your valuables, being aware of your surroundings, and following local laws and customs. Additionally, it's a good idea to consult with your embassy or consulate for any specific safety guidelines or advisories before your trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Japan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Nara.

What type of travelers will enjoy Nara the most?

Nara is an excellent destination for a wide range of travelers, including couples, families, and young people. Nara is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, which makes it an attractive location for history buffs and culture lovers. It is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Todai-ji Temple, which houses the largest bronze Buddha statue in the world. Families with kids may enjoy visiting Nara Park, where they can feed the friendly deer that roam around the park. The park is also home to several shrines and temples that offer a unique experience for visitors of all ages.
Couples looking for a romantic getaway will enjoy exploring the serene and picturesque landscapes of Nara. Its tranquil surroundings and natural beauty make it an ideal place for a romantic picnic or a peaceful walk.
Young people looking for fun can enjoy Nara's vibrant nightlife, shopping areas, and entertainment districts. Nara's nightlife scene is bustling with bars, clubs, and restaurants that cater to a young crowd. In summary, Nara has something for everyone, from couples seeking romance to families looking for an educational excursion to young people wanting to have fun.

How to get around Nara

There are several modes of transportation that can be used to move around Nara: 1. Walking - Nara is a walkable city, so many of the major attractions are within walking distance of each other.
2. Bicycle - Renting a bicycle is a popular way to explore Nara, and there are several rental shops throughout the city.
3. Bus - There are several bus lines that run throughout the city and can be used to visit attractions that are farther apart.
4. Train - Nara has a train station that connects to other cities in Japan, and there are local train lines that run within the city as well.

What to see around Nara

Yes, there are many nice places to visit in a day trip from Nara. Here are a few options: 1. Osaka: A vibrant city with exciting nightlife, shopping, and food. It's only about 45 minutes by train from Nara.
2. Kyoto: One of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan. It's known for its beautiful temples, shrines and gardens.
3. Kobe: A picturesque port city famous for its Kobe beef and hot springs.
4. Himeji Castle: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and Japan's most iconic castle.
5. Mt. Yoshino: A beautiful mountain covered with cherry blossom trees. It's especially stunning in the spring during sakura season.
6. Iga-Ueno: A small town famous for being the birthplace of ninja.
7. Wakayama: A prefecture with stunning scenery and a rich cultural heritage. It's home to several important shrines and temples, as well as traditional hot springs.
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