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Nara, Japan

Destination Guide

Nara

Japan

Best things to do in Nara

18 curated attractions in Nara, Japan. Handpicked for every kind of traveler.

Best time

March - May, October - November

Average temp

15°C/59°F

Budget

Mid-range

Safety

Very safe

About Nara

Nara was Japan's first capital in the eighth century and is still known for its rich cultural heritage and ancient temples. The city is home to a concentration of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the sprawling Todai-ji Temple which houses a massive bronze Buddha statue, and Kasuga Taisha Shrine, famous for its hundreds of stone lanterns. Nara Park, where tame deer roam freely, adds a unique touch to the historical atmosphere, while the quiet streets of Naramachi feature traditional wooden merchant houses that hint at what life was like in centuries past. Most visitors come to experience the tranquility of the gardens and temples, as well as the chance to mingle with the local deer population, who are surprisingly skillful at nudging for snacks.

Who it's for

Great for those who appreciate history, culture, and a bit of wildlife interaction. Ideal for peaceful strolls and temple hopping, but not the best fit if you're seeking a lively nightlife or modern attractions. If you want a rollercoaster, Nara Dreamland is closed, so reconsider your plans.

Getting around

Public transport: Good

  • Nara's compact size means you can walk between most attractions in about 30 minutes
  • Buses connect major sites like Todai-ji and Kasuga Taisha, running every 15 minutes or so
  • The nearest train station is Nara Station, which is about a 20-minute walk from the park
  • Don't expect a public transport system; it's more of a 'take it easy' vibe
Ando

Ando

Traditional villages
Higashimuki Shopping Street

Higashimuki Shopping Street

Shopping and Markets
Mount Yoshino

Mount Yoshino

Mountains & volcanoes
Hase-dera Temple

Hase-dera Temple

Buddhist temples & pagodas
Naramachi

Naramachi

Old towns & historic quarters
Heijo Palace

Heijo Palace

Castles & palaces
ji Temple

ji Temple

Buddhist temples & pagodas
Nara Park

Nara Park

City parks
Wakakusayama Hill

Wakakusayama Hill

Nature
Mount Wakakusa

Mount Wakakusa

Mountains & volcanoes
en Garden

en Garden

Botanical gardens
Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Shinto shrines
Ukimido Pavilion

Ukimido Pavilion

Formal & Japanese gardens
Yoshidaen

Yoshidaen

Cultural & Heritage Sites
Nara National Museum

Nara National Museum

Art museums & galleries
Sarusawa-ike Pond

Sarusawa-ike Pond

Lakes
Manshodou

Manshodou

Cultural & Heritage Sites
Nara Dreamland (abandoned amusement park)

Nara Dreamland (abandoned amusement park)

Theme parks

Where to eat in Nara

The places worth planning a meal around.

Nakatanidou

Nakatanidou

Japanese · $

★ 4.3 · 6,338 reviews

Chami Specialty Coffee Roasters

Chami Specialty Coffee Roasters

Specialty Coffee · $$

★ 4.7 · 1,779 reviews

Hiyori

Hiyori

Japanese · $$$

★ 4.0 · 290 reviews

Maguro Koya

Maguro Koya

Japanese · From ¥1500

Travel Tools

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