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Nara: What to Know
Overview
Nestled in the heart of Japan, Nara is a city steeped in history and cultural significance. As the country’s first permanent capital established in 710 AD, Nara is renowned for its ancient temples, such as Todai-ji, which houses the world’s largest bronze statue of Buddha. Today, Nara is best known for its tranquil parks filled with friendly, free-roaming deer, symbolizing the harmonious coexistence between nature and humanity. This blend of historical depth and natural beauty makes Nara a must-visit destination for any traveler.
Recommended Days
Nara has a few must-see attractions that can take up a full day of visiting. It is best as a daytrip.
Where to Stay
Stick to Osaka or Kyoto; the train to Nara Station takes about 40 minutes. While there are lodging options, Nara generally doesn’t require multiple days of travel.
Getting Around
From JR Nara Station, all major attractions are within walking distance. The Nara City Loop Line bus also stops by most major sites.
Popularity
Tier 1: Nara is extremely popular, and its proximity to two major cities, Osaka and Kyoto, make it very easy to visit.
The 3-2-1 of Nara
Attraction 1: Isuien Garden
Isuien Garden is a stunning example of traditional Japanese landscape design, seamlessly blending natural beauty with intricate architecture. The garden is divided into two parts, offering serene views of ponds, tea houses, and greenery set against the backdrop of Todai-ji Temple.
Attraction 2: Nara Park & Deer
Nara Park is a sprawling expanse where visitors can experience the unique charm of freely roaming deer, considered sacred messengers to Shinto deities. A must-do activity is purchasing shika senbei, special deer crackers that can be fed to the wandering deer, allowing for delightful, up-close interactions.
Attraction 3: Kasuga Taisha Temple
The cover image of this page, Kasuga Taisha Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its stunning vermilion torii gates and thousands of stone and bronze lanterns that line its pathways. Visitors can explore the sacred Shinto shrine, which dates back to 768 AD, and experience the enchanting atmosphere during its biannual lantern festivals when all the lanterns are beautifully illuminated.
Food: Nakatanidou Mochi Shop
Nakatanidou mochi shop in Nara has gained viral fame for its mesmerizingly fast and rhythmic mochi-pounding demonstrations, a captivating sight for visitors. This traditional shop is renowned for its freshly made yomogi mochi.
Extra Ideas: Todaiji Temple, Yoshikien Garden
Todaiji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to the world’s largest bronze statue of Buddha and serves as a symbol of Nara’s historical and cultural significance. Yoshikien Garden offers a tranquil retreat with its picturesque moss garden, scenic ponds, and traditional tea house; if you enjoyed Isuien Garden, Yoshikien is a similar experience.
Raincheck: Skip Nara, Osaka Aquarium
Very simply, Nara’s main tourist attractions are all outdoors. If there’s bad weather, spend the day indoors, such as at the Osaka Aquarium.
Also known as Kaiyukan, the Osaka Aquarium is one of the largest and most renowned in the world, celebrated for its stunning, multi-level exhibits. Its centerpiece is a massive central tank that houses whale sharks and a diverse array of marine life.
1 Day in Nara: The 3-2-1
In Summary: 1 Day in Nara
| Plan | Daytrip to Nara |
| Hotel Location | Osaka (60 minute train to Nara) Everything is walking distance from Nara station) |
| Attraction #1 | Isuien Garden |
| Attraction #2 | Nara Park: Feed the deer |
| Attraction #3 | Kasuga Taisha Temple |
| Food / Restaurant | Mochi (at Nakatanidou) |
| Raincheck Option | Stay in Osaka, go to Aquarium |
| Extra Idea(s) | Todaiji Temple; Yoshikien Garden |
Matt Fuji 