Last reviewed: · Prices are approximate and for orientation only.
Overview
Nara was the capital of Japan in the 8th century (the Nara period, 710–784). Its central park contains Todai-ji, Kasuga Taisha and Kofuku-ji — all part of the 'Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara' UNESCO site.
Most sights are within walking distance of Kintetsu Nara Station, which is slightly closer to the park than JR Nara Station.
Neighbourhoods & areas
Nara Park
Grassy parkland with around a thousand deer, considered messengers of the gods and protected as a natural monument.
Naramachi
Old merchant quarter of narrow lanes, machiya townhouses, cafés and small museums.
Nishinokyo
Southwest of the centre: Toshodai-ji and Yakushi-ji temples.
Top sights & experiences
Todai-ji
Houses a colossal bronze Buddha in one of the world's largest wooden buildings.
Kasuga Taisha
Shrine famous for its thousands of stone and bronze lanterns, lit during lantern festivals in February and August.
Kofuku-ji
Temple with a landmark five-storey pagoda and a National Treasure museum.
Isui-en & Yoshiki-en Gardens
Beautiful gardens borrowing views of Todai-ji's gate.
Horyu-ji
Some of the oldest surviving wooden buildings in the world, about 30 minutes away by JR and bus.
Mt Wakakusa
Grassy hill with city views; burned ceremonially each January (Wakakusa Yamayaki).
What to eat
Kakinoha-zushi
Sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves, a Nara speciality.
Kuzu sweets
Desserts made from kudzu starch.
Narazuke
Vegetables pickled in sake lees.
Miwa somen
Thin wheat noodles from the Miwa area, often served cold.
Where to stay by budget
Budget
Guesthouses in Naramachi.
Mid-range
Hotels near Kintetsu Nara or JR Nara stations.
Luxury
Historic hotels and ryokan near Nara Park — staying lets you see the park at dawn without crowds.
Rough nightly ranges: hostels and capsule hotels often run a few thousand yen per person; business hotels commonly ¥8,000–¥20,000 per room; upscale hotels and ryokan can be far higher, especially in peak seasons. See our accommodation guide.
Getting there
From Kyoto: Kintetsu Kyoto Line (around 35–45 minutes on limited express) or JR Nara Line. From Osaka: Kintetsu Nara Line from Namba (~40 min) or JR Yamatoji Line from Tennoji/Osaka.
Getting around
The main sights are walkable (allow lots of time — the park is big). City loop buses run from both stations.
Day trips & side trips
Yoshino
Mountain famous for tens of thousands of cherry trees blooming in stages in April.
Horyu-ji
Combine with nearby Hokki-ji's pagoda.
Asuka
Countryside of ancient tombs and stones; great by bicycle.
Best time to visit
Cherry blossom in early April, autumn colours in November. The Omizutori ceremony at Todai-ji's Nigatsu-do runs 1–14 March. Summer is hot; the Nara Tokae lantern event takes place in August.
Local tips
- Deer can be pushy when they see deer crackers (shika senbei). Hold crackers out of reach, show your empty hands when finished, and watch small children.
- Feed the deer only the official crackers.
- Arrive before 10am to beat tour groups at Todai-ji.
Official sources & further reading
Rules, prices and schedules change. Confirm details here before you travel: