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
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Nara

1

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Todai-ji Temple

Explore the Great Buddha and stunning architecture.

No booking required
2

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Nara Park deer feeding

Feed the friendly deer roaming freely in the park.

No booking required
3

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Kasuga-taisha Shrine

Visit this UNESCO site with beautiful lanterns.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Wander through Naramachi

Discover traditional buildings and quaint shops.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Nara National Museum

Learn about Japanese art and history.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend the Nara Tōkae Festival

Experience beautiful lantern displays in August.

No booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike Mount Wakakusa

Enjoy panoramic views of Nara from the summit.

No booking required
8

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Taste kakinoha-zushi

Try this unique leaf-wrapped sushi.

No booking required
9

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Horyu-ji Temple

See some of the world's oldest wooden structures.

No booking required
10

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Yoshikien Garden

Relax in this beautiful traditional Japanese garden.

No booking required

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)