Things To Do
in Nara
Nara is a compact city in Japan renowned for its ancient temples, tranquil gardens, and free-roaming deer in Nara Park. As one of Japan’s early capitals, it preserves a treasure trove of UNESCO-listed monuments including Todai-ji and Kasuga Taisha. The town blends serene nature with centuries-old culture and offers easy day trips from Kyoto or Osaka.
It is a destination for contemplative strolls, temple architecture, and seasonal beauty around every corner.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha statue, which is a breathtaking sight. Stroll through Nara Park, where you can interact with the friendly, free-roaming deer that symbolize the city. Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at a nearby café, savoring local specialties like grilled fish and miso soup.
After lunch, head to Kasuga-taisha Shrine, known for its hundreds of bronze lanterns, and take a leisurely walk through its serene forest path. Visit the Nara National Museum to appreciate the rich history and art of the region, including Buddhist artifacts. Wrap up your afternoon with a peaceful stroll along the picturesque paths lined with cherry blossom trees.
As the sun sets, find a cozy izakaya in Naramachi, the historic merchant district, and indulge in local sake paired with seasonal dishes. Take a leisurely evening stroll through the lantern-lit streets, absorbing the ambiance of this ancient town. Conclude your day by enjoying a traditional kaiseki dinner at a local restaurant for an authentic taste of Japanese cuisine.
Begin your day with a hike to Mount Wakakusa, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Nara and its surrounding mountains. The walk up the gentle slopes is invigorating, especially with the sight of deer grazing along the way. At the summit, take a moment to soak in the fresh air and capture stunning photographs of the landscape.
Descend from the mountain and head to the tranquil Isui-en Garden, where you can admire the beautiful ponds and meticulously designed landscapes. Take time to relax in the garden's teahouse while sipping matcha tea and enjoying seasonal sweets. Spend your afternoon exploring the nearby Yoshikien Garden, known for its exquisite moss and flower arrangements.
As evening approaches, wander through Naramachi’s historic streets, exploring traditional wooden buildings and shops. Find a local restaurant where you can try yakitori and other grilled delicacies under the warm glow of lanterns. End the night by visiting a local onsen, indulging in a soothing soak to unwind after your day of exploration.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍣Meal at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🛏️Hotel room (per night, mid-range) | $60-120 |
| 🚇Public transport day pass | $7-12 |
| 🎟️Temple/museum entrance | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and UNESCO sites
- Deer-filled parks and calm atmosphere
- Compact city center; easy to navigate from Kyoto/Osaka
- Can be crowded in peak seasons
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Some English may be limited in rural temples
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "これはいくらですか？" - How much is this?
- "どこですか？" - Where is…?
Places to Visit in Nara
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic wooden hall with one of the world’s largest bronze statues; dramatic angles and lantern lighting opportunities.
Soft morning light on deer near temple grounds makes for gentle portraits.
Hundreds of stone and bronze lanterns line a vermilion-lacquered path—great for long-exposure shots.
A traditional stroll garden with ponds and teahouses; ideal for reflective, tranquil photography.
Old merchant houses and narrow streets with wooden facades perfect for street photography.
Food in Nara
Nara Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Persimmon leaf–wrapped sushi, a famous Nara specialty often sold in gift boxes and temple towns.
Must-Try!
Rice porridge cooked with green tea, traditionally served at temples and during pilgrimages.
Cold somen noodles from the Miwa region served with a light dipping sauce, perfect in warm weather.
A kuzu starch dessert that’s soft, chewy, and commonly found in Nara's wagashi shops.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic lanes with small eateries offering local snacks, sweets, and seasonal bites.
Seasonal street stalls around Nara Park offering dango, taiyaki, and light bites after temple visits.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Remove shoes where required; show respect in sacred spaces; avoid loud talking near temples.
Be gentle with deer; do not feed them with unsafe foods; follow posted guidelines.
Nara values calm and orderly behavior; keep voices low in public areas and temples.
Safety
Tipping in Nara
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; polite appreciation by saying thank you (arigatou) is sufficient.
Cash is widely used; many shops in central Nara accept credit cards; IC cards (ICOCA, Suica) work on major rail lines and stores.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cherry blossoms and plum blooms in parks; comfortable daytime temperatures; plan early temple visits.
Hot and humid; stay hydrated; morning and evening temple walks; watch for seasonal rain.
Vibrant fall foliage in parks and gardens; cool days with crisp air; ideal photography conditions.
Cold but usually dry, with occasional light snow; fewer crowds; carry warm layers and visit indoor museums.
Nara at Night
Hiking in Nara
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Sacred mountain near Sakurai with Omiwa Shrine at the base; a moderate hike with forested paths and viewpoints.
Short, easy hike up Wakakusa Hill offering panoramic views of Nara city and park at sunset.
Airports
How to reach Nara by plane.
Domestic and international connections; accessible by train to central Osaka and onward to Nara via rail.
Major international hub; reachable by train and bus to Kyoto/Osaka and then to Nara via JR or Kintetsu lines.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, students from nearby universities, and long-term residents with deep ties to temples and crafts.
Visiting travelers drawn to UNESCO sites, deer park, and historical neighborhoods.
Many students attend local universities and language schools in the city and nearby towns.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport at schools and local leagues; try to catch a local game if you’re there during season.
Local teams and community fields offer opportunities for casual play and watching matches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nara.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for sho jin ryori-style dishes in temple areas; communicate dietary needs politely; many places offer veggie options and tofu dishes.