Nara,
Nara, Japan is a historic city known for its well-preserved temples, traditional gardens, and ancient ruins. The city is famous for its population of friendly wild deer that roam freely in Nara Park, a popular tourist attraction. Nara was once the capital of Japan in the 8th century and is home to some of the country's oldest and most significant Buddhist temples, including Todai-ji and Horyu-ji.
Visitors can experience the rich cultural heritage of Nara through its impressive architecture, museums, and annual festivals.
Places to visit
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとう" - Thank you
- "おはよう" - Good morning
- "こんばんは" - Good evening
- "さようなら" - Goodbye
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring the Ancient Capital
morning:Start your day with a serene visit to the Todaiji Temple, home to the Great Buddha, and marvel at its exquisite architecture and spiritual atmosphere. Then, head over to Nara Park, where you can encounter friendly deer while strolling through the lush greenery. Grab a delightful breakfast at Komeda's Coffee, renowned for its delicious pastries and coffee.
afternoon:Afterwards, immerse yourself in Japan's history by visiting the Nara National Museum, which holds a remarkable collection of Buddhist art and artifacts. Don't miss the Kasuga Taisha Shrine, famous for its beautiful lanterns and tranquil ambiance. Indulge in a fabulous traditional Japanese meal at Maguro Koya for lunch.
evening:As the day winds down, take a leisurely walk along Sanjo Dori Street and experience the delightful blend of modern and traditional architecture. For a vibrant night-out, head to the lively district of Naramachi to explore its charming alleyways and trendy bars.
Cultural Delights and Serene Gardens
morning:Start your day by immersing yourself in Nara's cultural heritage at the Naramachi Museum, which offers insightful exhibits on the town's history and local crafts. Then, take a tranquil stroll through the Isuien Garden, a picturesque landscape with beautiful ponds and teahouses. Savor a delightful breakfast at the serene Nakatanidou, famous for its mouth-watering yomogi mochi.
afternoon:Continue your cultural exploration at the Kofukuji Temple, a symbol of Nara boasting stunning pagodas and impressive Buddhist relics. Visit the Yoshiki-en Garden, a hidden gem renowned for its exquisite rock formations and serene ambiance. Enjoy a delightful traditional Japanese lunch at Yorozu.
evening:As evening approaches, take a leisurely walk around Sarusawa Pond and bask in the tranquil atmosphere. For a mesmerizing night-out, head to the serene Nara Family where you can enjoy a peaceful evening surrounded by nature and tranquility.
Historical Wonders and Shopping Delights
morning:Embark on a historical journey by visiting the Shoso-in Treasure House, home to a remarkable collection of artifacts from the Nara period. Then, explore the impressive architecture of the Horyuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning pagodas and ancient treasures. Enjoy a delightful breakfast at the charming Café Watte.
afternoon:Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Higashimuki Shopping Street, lined with a wide array of traditional shops and modern boutiques. Delve into Nara's rich history at the Nara Craft Museum, showcasing exquisite traditional crafts and artistic creations. Treat yourself to a savory traditional Japanese lunch at Naramachi Koshino Yorozuya.
evening:As the sun sets, indulge in a leisurely walk through the bustling streets of Sanjo Dori and soak in the lively ambiance. For a fantastic night-out, head to the lively Nara-machi area where you can explore trendy bars and stylish cafes.
Nature Escapes and Cultural Immersion
morning:Commence your day with a refreshing visit to the Mount Yoshino, renowned for its mesmerizing cherry blossoms and breathtaking views. Immerse yourself in nature's beauty as you explore the tranquil trails and lush greenery. Enjoy a delightful breakfast at the charming Harushika Honten.
afternoon:Embark on a cultural adventure by visiting the Sakuramotobou, a historic temple complex with stunning architecture and serene surroundings. Experience the traditional rituals and immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance. Savor a scrumptious traditional Japanese lunch at Shukaen.
evening:As the day draws to a close, take a leisurely stroll through the enchanting streets of Nara Park, surrounded by serene nature and friendly deer. For a memorable night-out, head to the mesmerizing Kofuku-ji Pagoda and bask in the enchanting night view of this iconic landmark.
Nara Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Kakinoha-zushi
Try the Kakinoha-zushi, a type of sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves, which gives it a unique flavor. It can be found at local sushi restaurants like Miwa and Akishino.
Must-Try!
Mochi
Indulge in Nara's delicious Mochi, a glutinous rice cake available in various flavors such as matcha, red bean, or soy sauce. Look for shops like Nakatanidou for freshly pounded Mochi.
Kaki no Ha Zenzai
Savor Kaki no Ha Zenzai, a sweet red bean soup served with rice cakes wrapped in persimmon leaves. It's a popular dessert in Nara and can be tried at traditional teahouses like Haritts.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Nara-machi
Explore Nara-machi area for a vibrant food market showcasing local street food delicacies such as yakitori (grilled skewered chicken), takoyaki (octopus balls), and mitarashi dango (rice dumplings in sweet soy sauce).
Things to do in Nara
Unique local experiences...
Pet sitters in Nara
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!