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Nara

Japan, Asia

Nara, the first capital of Japan, is a treasure trove of cultural heritage, famed for its stunning temples like Todai-ji with the Great Buddha and the picturesque Nara Park, where you can wander among free-roaming deer. The city is known for its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, traditional wooden architecture, and historical charm. Visitors are drawn to its serene atmosphere, delicious local delicacies, and the chance to experience ancient traditions like the Nara Tōkae lantern festival, making it a must-visit destination.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-3 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Osaka

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

10 Best Things to Do in Nara

1. Visit Todai-ji Temple

Explore the Great Buddha and stunning architecture.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

2. Nara Park deer feeding

Feed the friendly deer roaming freely in the park.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

3. Explore Kasuga-taisha Shrine

Visit this UNESCO site with beautiful lanterns.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

4. Wander through Naramachi

Discover traditional buildings and quaint shops.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

5. Visit the Nara National Museum

Learn about Japanese art and history.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

6. Attend the Nara Tōkae Festival

Experience beautiful lantern displays in August.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

7. Hike Mount Wakakusa

Enjoy panoramic views of Nara from the summit.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

8. Taste kakinoha-zushi

Try this unique leaf-wrapped sushi.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

< 1 hr

9. Visit Horyu-ji Temple

See some of the world's oldest wooden structures.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

10. Explore the Yoshikien Garden

Relax in this beautiful traditional Japanese garden.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Not expected

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

-3 (#70 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Yen

Majority religion

Unaffiliated

Language

Japanese

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Curry Rice

Rice served with Japanese curry sauce. (National dish)

Sushi

Vinegared rice with raw fish or vegetables.

Ramen

Noodles in broth, often with meat or vegetables.

Tempura

Battered and deep-fried seafood or vegetables.

Okonomiyaki

V

Savory pancake with various fillings and toppings.

Phrases to learn

English

Japanese

Hello

Konnichiwa

(Koh-nee-chee-wah)

Yes/No

Hai / Iie

(Hai / Ee-eh)

Thank you

Arigatou

(Ah-ree-gah-toh)

Excuse me

Sumimasen

(Soo-mee-mah-sen)

How much?

Ikura?

(Ee-koo-rah)