Exploring the Historical Charm of Nara with Family

A Journey Through Time in Naramachi

Today, I embarked on a captivating journey through Naramachi, Nara's well-preserved historic district. It felt like stepping back in time, wandering through narrow streets lined with traditional houses and soaking in the atmosphere of old Japan. Despite the August heat, which, according to the weather forecast, could reach up to 32°C, the allure of history and culture kept my spirits high. Aoife and Liam were with me, equally excited to explore this charming part of Nara.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Happy Kitchen Kin-no-shika. The name itself is quite charming, isn't it? I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set. Aoife, ever the adventurous one, chose the YAMATO Beef Loin Steak, while Liam went for a classic shrimp burger. The reviews I had read were mixed, but we found the staff friendly and the food quite satisfying, especially enjoyed on their outdoor terrace. It was a great way to fuel up for a day of exploration.

After breakfast, we strolled into the heart of Naramachi. The district is known for its well-preserved machiya houses, traditional wooden townhouses that once belonged to merchants. Walking through the streets, I couldn't help but admire the architecture, the intricate details of the wooden facades, and the way the buildings seemed to whisper stories of generations past. The area was bustling with tourists, but it didn't detract from the overall charm. I even spotted a few people participating in the Strolling around Naramachi/Kitamachi 2025 event, which seemed like a fantastic way to delve deeper into the area's history and culture.

Our first stop was the Naramachi Koshi-no-Ie, also known as the Lattice House. This beautifully restored machiya offers a glimpse into the life of a merchant family during the Meiji era. The house gets its name from the intricate wooden lattice work on its facade, a design that provides both ventilation and privacy. It’s fascinating to see how these houses were designed to maximize space, with narrow frontages and long depths, sometimes referred to as eel's beds. Aoife was particularly interested in the small garden, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. It's amazing how the Japanese incorporate nature into even the smallest of spaces.


Discover the rich history of traditional Japanese architecture at Naramachi Koshi-no-Ie, a beautifully preserved lattice house in Nara's historic district.

The best journey takes you home, even if it's just for a moment.

Next, we visited the Naramachi Shiryo-kan Museum. This museum is housed in a traditional townhouse and showcases local history and culture from the Edo to Taisho periods. The collections included folklore materials, Buddhist statues, and antiques, highlighting Naramachi's past as a merchant district. I was particularly intrigued by the Sudare Exhibition, featuring traditional woven bamboo screens. These screens are not only beautiful but also functional, providing shade and ventilation during the hot summer months. Liam, with his keen interest in history, spent a considerable amount of time examining the old maps and documents on display.


Explore the rich history and culture of Nara at the Naramachi Shiryo-kan Museum, a local history gem that captures the essence of Japan's heritage.

For lunch, we decided to try Rokumeien, a cozy restaurant near Todai-ji Temple inside Nara Park. The reviews I'd read praised its vegetarian options, which was a definite plus for Aoife. The restaurant is run by a friendly couple, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. We ordered a variety of noodle and curry dishes, including a delicious vegetarian set meal. The prices were reasonable, and the food was tasty and filling. It was the perfect place to recharge after a morning of exploring.


Discover the art of Japanese sweets at Rokumeien in Nara - where tradition meets taste in every delightful bite.

In the late afternoon, as the sun began to dip lower in the sky, we took a break at a local bar, blue note Naramachi. While I didn’t find any specific events happening there today, I enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere and the chance to soak in the local vibe. It was a welcome respite from the August heat.


Immerse yourself in the vibrant jazz scene of Nara at Blue Note Naramachi, where live music and a cozy ambiance await.

For dinner, we had reservations at akordu, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant offering innovative Spanish cuisine. The restaurant's name, meaning memory in Basque, hinted at the culinary journey we were about to embark on. Chef Kawashima's dishes skillfully incorporate fresh, local ingredients from the Nara Prefecture, blending them with techniques from the Basque region. The presentation was exquisite, and the flavors were both surprising and delightful. It was truly a memorable dining experience.


Experience exquisite dining at Akordu in Nara - where tradition meets contemporary cuisine amidst stunning surroundings.

As we walked back to the Nara Royal Hotel, I reflected on the day's adventures. Naramachi had captivated me with its blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. It was a reminder of the importance of preserving our past and cherishing the traditions that make each place unique. I am looking forward to tomorrow, where we plan to visit the Heijo Palace Site Museum, the Nara City Museum of Art, and the Nara Craft Museum. It seems like Nara has an endless supply of cultural treasures to explore. Perhaps I'll even try my hand at making my own fude, a traditional Japanese calligraphy brush.


Experience the comfort of Nara Royal Hotel, your perfect base for exploring the historic city of Nara, with easy access to local attractions and amenities.

Before I turn in for the night, I must remember to locate a travel adapter; I completely forgot to pack one, and it’s becoming quite a nuisance []. Also, I need to check the weather forecast for tomorrow and pack a raincoat, just in case. Until tomorrow, happy travels!

I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Travel, after all, is not just about seeing new places; it's about creating lasting memories with the people we love.