Discover the Treasures of Nara National Museum
Explore the rich artistic heritage of Japan at Nara National Museum, featuring stunning exhibitions of traditional art and artifacts.
Nestled in the heart of Nara, the Nara National Museum is a cultural gem that offers a captivating journey through Japan's rich artistic heritage. With its remarkable collections of traditional art and historical artifacts, this museum is a must-visit for tourists seeking to immerse themselves in the cultural legacy of Japan. The museum not only showcases breathtaking exhibitions but also provides a serene environment perfect for thoughtful exploration and learning.
A brief summary to Nara National Museum
- 50 Noboriojicho, Nara, Noboriojicho, Nara, 630-8213, JP
- +8150-5542-8600
- Visit website
- Tuesday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-8 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Plan your visit during weekdays for a quieter experience.
- Check the museum's website for information on special exhibitions and events.
- Take advantage of the audio guides for an enriching tour through the galleries.
- Visit the museum's garden for a peaceful break during your tour.
- Consider visiting in the late afternoon to enjoy extended hours, especially on weekends.
Getting There
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Public Transportation
If you are starting from Osaka, take the Kintetsu Nara Line from Osaka Namba Station to Kintetsu Nara Station. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes. From Kintetsu Nara Station, exit the station and walk south for about 15 minutes to reach the Nara National Museum located at 50 Noboriojicho, Nara. Make sure to check the train schedules as they may vary, and a one-way ticket costs around 560 yen.
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Public Transportation
If you are starting from Kyoto, take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station to Nara Station. The travel time is about 45 minutes. Once you arrive at Nara Station, you can either take a bus or walk; it is about a 30-minute walk to the museum. Alternatively, you can take the Kintetsu Nara Line from Nara Station to Kintetsu Nara Station and then walk approximately 15 minutes to the museum. The train fare from Kyoto Station to Nara Station is approximately 720 yen.
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Driving
If you are driving from Osaka, take the Hanshin Expressway and follow the signs for the Route 165 towards Nara. The drive takes about 50 minutes, depending on traffic. Upon arrival in Nara, follow the signs to the Nara National Museum located at 50 Noboriojicho. Be aware that parking may be limited, and you may need to pay for parking in nearby lots.
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Driving
If you are coming from Kyoto, take the Meishin Expressway and merge onto Route 24 towards Nara. The drive typically takes around 50 minutes. Once in Nara, look for signs directing you to the Nara National Museum at 50 Noboriojicho. Note that you might need to use a parking garage or public parking space, and parking fees will apply.
Discover more about Nara National Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ban Inoue Todaiji
0.2 km
Discover the serene ambiance and delightful treats at Ban Inoue Todaiji, a must-visit café near the historic Todai-ji Temple in Nara.
Todaiji Nandaimon (Great South Gate)
0.3 km
Explore the majestic Todaiji Nandaimon in Nara, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing stunning traditional architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Todaiji Honbo (Abbot's Quaeters, Temple Office)
0.4 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich heritage of Todaiji Honbo, a premier Buddhist temple in Nara, Japan, offering spiritual solace and architectural marvels.
Todaiji Kondo Hakkaku Toro (Bronze Octagonal Lantern)
0.6 km
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The Garden of the Former Daijyo-in Temple
0.6 km
Experience tranquility and cultural heritage at The Garden of the Former Daijyo-in Temple, a serene escape in Nara, Japan, perfect for nature lovers.
Todai-ji Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall)
0.7 km
Experience the grandeur of Todai-ji Daibutsuden, home to Japan's Great Buddha, a masterpiece of cultural and spiritual significance in Nara.
NARA Visitor Center & Inn
0.7 km
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Tōdai-ji
0.7 km
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Nara Prefecture Visitors Bureau
0.7 km
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Sarusawa-ike Monument
0.7 km
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Uneme Shrine
0.8 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Uneme Shrine in Nara, a sacred place dedicated to safe childbirth surrounded by stunning seasonal landscapes.
Todai-ji Daibutsu-ike Pond
0.8 km
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Shiga Naoya's Old Residence
0.8 km
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Hiraso
0.8 km
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Todai-ji Hokkedo (Sangatsudo, March Hall)
0.8 km
Explore the serene beauty of Todai-ji Hokkedo, a cultural landmark in Nara, Japan, renowned for its stunning architecture and rich Buddhist heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Okumura Commemorative Museum
0.1 km
Explore the Okumura Commemorative Museum in Nara - a must-visit destination for technology enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
Asajigahara Enchi
0.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of Asajigahara Enchi in Nara, a tranquil park perfect for relaxation, nature walks, and cultural exploration.
Kataoka Bairin
0.2 km
Explore the stunning beauty of Kataoka Bairin, an enchanting arboretum in Nara, Japan, renowned for its exquisite plum blossom trees in full bloom.
Tobihino
0.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Tobihino, a serene park in Nara, Japan, perfect for nature lovers and tranquil retreats.
Ukigumo-enchi
0.3 km
Experience the serene beauty of Ukigumo-enchi Park in Nara, Japan - a tranquil oasis perfect for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Yoshikien Garden
0.3 km
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Todai-ji Namdaimon (Grand South Gate)
0.3 km
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Ukimido
0.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Ukimido, a tranquil pavilion in Nara Park, offering stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere for all visitors.
Ukimido Pavilion
0.3 km
Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Ukimido Pavilion, a serene escape in Nara, Japan, surrounded by lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Isuien Garden and Neiraku Museum
0.3 km
Discover the beauty of Isuien Garden and Neiraku Museum in Nara, where nature and art harmoniously coexist in a tranquil setting.
Todai-ji Museum
0.4 km
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Sagiike pond
0.4 km
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Sagi Pond
0.4 km
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Noborioji Park
0.4 km
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Kofuku-ji Hombo (Abbot's Quarters)
0.4 km
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Essential places to dine
Izasa-Nakatani-hompo Yumekaze-hiroba
0.1 km
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Restaurant Naraya Todaiji
0.1 km
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Happy Kitchen Kin-no-shika
0.1 km
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Miyama
0.1 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Miyama in Nara – a culinary haven offering traditional flavors in a serene setting.
Yokyoan Honten
0.2 km
Experience authentic sushi at Yokyoan Honten in Nara, where tradition meets freshness in every bite.
Kamameshi Shizuka Kouen-ten志津香
0.2 km
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Monsieur Pépé
0.2 km
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Uma-no-me
0.3 km
Experience the art of kaiseki at Uma-no-me in Nara, where every dish tells a story through seasonal ingredients and traditional Japanese techniques.
akordu
0.4 km
Discover the essence of Japanese cuisine at Akordu in Nara – where tradition meets exquisite taste.
滴翠
0.4 km
Experience the essence of authentic Japanese cuisine at 滴翠 in Nara - where tradition meets taste.
Main Dining Room 'Mikasa'
0.6 km
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Vegan Cafe Ramuna
0.6 km
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RAhOTSU
0.6 km
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La Terrasse
0.7 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at La Terrasse in Nara - where culinary artistry meets serene elegance.
Rokumeien
0.7 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Museum Shop, Nara National Museum
0.1 km
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Yumekaze Plaza
0.1 km
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Nara-miyage hyakka-shoten
0.1 km
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NARA MEIHINKAN
0.4 km
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Imanishi-kyorindo
0.8 km
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Risky
0.8 km
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Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten - Nara Flagship Store
0.8 km
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Nara Higashimuki Shopping Street
0.9 km
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Higashimuki Shopping Street
0.9 km
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Sanrakudo Higashimuki
0.9 km
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Spark
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Mochiido Center Town
0.9 km
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Ezuya
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Shimomikado Shopping Street
0.9 km
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Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten Branch Souvenir Nara Sanjo
0.9 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
ザ・バー
0.8 km
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M's Bar
0.8 km
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バー フィディック
0.8 km
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blue note Naramachi
0.8 km
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SK Music At Brazilian Bar
0.9 km
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Salon des vins Sève
0.9 km
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Amberjack
0.9 km
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ダルウィニー
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Savant
0.9 km
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Music Bar Reciaffe
1.0 km
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Light
1.0 km
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shisha&bar vanguard
1.0 km
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LAMP BAR
1.0 km
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AUTHENTIC TABLE TAVERN
1.3 km
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Woo Koo Bar?
1.6 km
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