Things To Do
in Nara
Nara, Japan, is a city steeped in history and culture, known for being the first capital of Japan during the Nara period. It is home to some of the country's oldest temples, shrines, and historical sites, including Todai-ji and Kasuga-taisha. The city is also famous for its friendly free-roaming deer in Nara Park, which adds a unique charm to the landscape.
With a blend of ancient heritage and serene natural beauty, Nara offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of larger cities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Todai-ji Temple, home to a giant Buddha statue. Explore the temple grounds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Head to Nara Park to see the free-roaming deer and visit Kasuga-taisha Shrine, famous for its numerous lanterns and beautiful gardens.
Enjoy dinner at a local izakaya, experiencing traditional Japanese cuisine in a cozy setting.
Visit Horyu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire its ancient wooden structures.
Take a leisurely stroll through the scenic Yoshikien Garden, which features a pond and traditional tea houses.
Explore the vibrant streets of Naramachi for shopping and dining, concluding your day with a taste of locally brewed sake.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍣Sushi meal | $20 |
| ☕Coffee | $3 |
| 🍜Ramen bowl | $10 |
| 🍺Local beer | $5 |
| 🚌Bus fare | $2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural sites.
- Friendly atmosphere with free-roaming deer.
- Beautiful natural scenery and gardens.
- Limited nightlife options.
- Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
- Public transportation may not be as frequent as larger cities.
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとう" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "おいしいです" - It's delicious
- "はい" - Yes
Places to Visit in Nara
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture the grandeur of the Great Buddha Hall and the serene surroundings.
Photograph the iconic lanterns and the lush forest backdrop.
A picturesque setting with deer roaming freely, perfect for candid shots.
Food in Nara
Nara Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves, offering a unique and aromatic flavor.
Must-Try!
Locally brewed sake known for its smooth taste and rich aroma.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A historic street lined with shops and eateries, perfect for sampling local snacks.
Try deer-shaped biscuits and other treats sold at various stalls in the park.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always treat wildlife, especially the deer, with kindness and avoid feeding them inappropriate food.
Maintain a respectful silence when visiting temples and shrines.
A slight bow is a common way to show respect when greeting locals.
Safety
Tipping in Nara
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan; excellent service is expected without extra reward.
Cash is widely accepted; credit cards are becoming more common but always check before dining.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cherry blossoms bloom around March to April, creating stunning pink landscapes.
Warm weather with occasional rain; ideal for exploring temples and parks.
Fall foliage from late October to November offers beautiful scenic views.
Cold temperatures with occasional snow; enjoy the quiet beauty of Nara's temples.
Nara at Night
Hiking in Nara
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination offering trails with varying difficulty, leading to beautiful views of Nara.
A scenic hiking area with several trails, rich in flora and fauna, suitable for all levels.
Airports
How to reach Nara by plane.
Located about 70 km from Nara, this major airport connects to international and domestic flights. It offers train and bus services to Nara city.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Nara's population consists primarily of Japanese citizens, many of whom have deep historical ties to the area.
A significant number of visitors come from both domestic and international locations, particularly attracted by historical and cultural sites.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A highly popular sport in Japan, with many local teams and fan support.
Growing in popularity, with local schools and clubs nurturing young talent.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nara.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but confirm with staff as some dishes may contain fish-based ingredients.
Gluten-free options are limited; inquire about specific dishes or sauces.