Nara, Japan Travel Guide

Discover Nara: Japan's ancient capital, where history, nature, and culture converge in a serene and captivating environment.

Nara, an ancient city in Japan, is a haven for history buffs and nature lovers alike. Once the capital of Japan, Nara is filled with historical treasures, including some of the oldest and largest temples in the country. Nara Park, where deer roam freely, is a must-visit. The deer are considered sacred and have become a symbol of the city. A short walk from Nara Park is Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha statue, one of the largest bronze figures in the world. The temple complex is expansive and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life. Another notable site is Kasuga Taisha Shrine, famous for its thousands of lanterns that light up during festivals. Nara is also known for its traditional Japanese gardens and tea houses. Isuien Garden, with its beautiful ponds and tea house, provides a glimpse into the serene beauty of Japanese landscaping. Don't miss the Naramachi district, where you can wander through narrow streets lined with traditional wooden houses, shops, and museums. It's the perfect place to enjoy local crafts and cuisine.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Nara.

Visit Nara Park early in the morning to avoid crowds and have a more peaceful experience with the deer.
Wear comfortable shoes as many attractions are best explored on foot.
Try the local specialty, Kakinoha-zushi, sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves.
Purchase a Nara City Pass for discounts on transport and entry to major attractions.
Respect the local customs, especially in temples and shrines. Removing shoes and being quiet are often required.

Explore Nara: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Nara

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Universal Studios Japan

Dive into the magic of movies at Universal Studios Japan, where thrilling attractions and unforgettable experiences await every visitor in Osaka.

4.5

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Explore the breathtaking Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto, Japan, home to thousands of iconic red torii gates and serene hiking trails through lush forests.

4.6

Osaka Castle

Discover the historical grandeur of Osaka Castle, a stunning architectural masterpiece surrounded by beautiful gardens and rich cultural heritage.

4.4

Nara Park

Explore Nara Park, a beautiful blend of nature, culture, and history, where majestic deer roam and ancient temples stand tall.

4.5

Best landmarks in Nara

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Nara Park

Explore the beauty and tranquility of Nara Park, where free-roaming deer and ancient temples await your discovery in Japan's historic capital.

4.5

Tōdai-ji

Explore Tōdai-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Nara, Japan, home to the Great Buddha and magnificent architecture steeped in history.

4.6

Glico Sign Dotonbori

Experience the dazzling Glico Sign in Dotonbori, an iconic symbol of Osaka's vibrant street culture, famous for its stunning neon displays and lively atmosphere.

4.4

Kasuga Taisha

Experience the tranquility and spiritual richness of Kasuga Taisha, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Nara, Japan, known for its stunning architecture and serene gardens.

4.5

Best restaurants in Nara

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Tonkatsu Ganko Nara

Discover the rich flavors of Japan at Tonkatsu Ganko Nara, where delicious tonkatsu awaits every visitor.

4.4

Kamameshi Shizuka Kouen-ten志津香

Discover the flavors of Japan at Kamameshi Shizuka Kouen-ten—where tradition meets taste in every bite.

4.2

Kokkyo Shokudo

Discover Kokkyo Shokudo in Nara – where authentic Japanese cuisine meets warm hospitality in a charming setting.

4.0

Maguro Koya

Discover the flavors of Japan at Maguro Koya in Nara - where fresh seafood meets authentic culinary tradition.

4.5

Best bars in Nara

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LAMP BAR

Discover the vibrant nightlife at LAMP BAR in Nara, where personalized cocktails and a cozy atmosphere create unforgettable experiences for tourists.

4.6

Savant

Experience Nara's vibrant nightlife at Savant, where exquisite drinks meet a cozy atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

4.8

Light

Discover the lively ambiance of Light Pub in Nara, where local brews meet warm hospitality and vibrant nightlife.

4.4

shisha&bar vanguard

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Nara at Vanguard Shisha & Bar, where exquisite shisha and cocktails meet a lively atmosphere.

4.9

Best nightclubs in Nara

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blue note Naramachi

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

4.5

SNACK BAR solo

Discover the vibrant nightlife at SNACK BAR solo in Nara, where delicious drinks and a friendly atmosphere await your arrival.

5.0

Philippine Karaoke Bar JURI

Enjoy an unforgettable karaoke experience at Philippine Karaoke Bar JURI, where music, fun, and friendship converge in Nara, Japan.

4.7

NIGHT SPACE エアメール

Discover the electrifying nightlife of Nara at NIGHT SPACE エアメール, a must-visit night club for music and dance lovers.

3.0

Best shops in Nara

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Shinsaibashi-Suji Shopping Street

Discover the vibrant Shinsaibashi-Suji Shopping Street in Osaka, a hub of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.

4.3

Kuromon Ichiba Market

Discover the culinary treasures of Kuromon Ichiba Market, a bustling hub of fresh produce and traditional Japanese street food in the heart of Osaka.

4.1

Osaka Station City

Discover the vibrant heart of Osaka at Osaka Station City, where shopping, dining, and entertainment converge in a stunning urban landscape.

4.0

Osaka Takashimaya

Discover the vibrant world of shopping, dining, and culture at Osaka Takashimaya, your ultimate destination in Japan.

4.0

Explore Nara on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Nara, mapped for you.

Nara Essentials

Nara is easily accessible from major cities in Japan. The nearest international airports are Kansai International Airport (KIX) and Osaka Itami Airport (ITM). From Kansai International Airport, you can take the JR Kansai Airport Rapid Service to Tennoji Station and then transfer to the JR Yamatoji Line to Nara Station, which takes about 1.5 hours. From Osaka Itami Airport, you can take a limousine bus to Nara, which takes approximately an hour. Alternatively, Nara is a 45-minute train ride from Kyoto via the JR Nara Line or Kintetsu Limited Express Line.
Nara has an efficient public transportation system. The JR and Kintetsu railways are the primary modes of transport for reaching Nara from other cities. Within Nara, local buses operated by Nara Kotsu connect major tourist sites. For more flexibility, consider renting a bicycle or using taxis, which are readily available but can be expensive. Walking is also a pleasant way to explore Nara, especially around Nara Park.
The official currency in Japan is the Japanese Yen (JPY). Credit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in Nara, but it's advisable to carry some cash, particularly for smaller establishments and street vendors. ATMs are available at convenience stores and banks, but not all ATMs accept foreign cards, so look for international ATMs, such as those at 7-Eleven and Post Offices.
Nara is generally very safe for tourists. Petty crime is rare, but it's always wise to keep an eye on personal belongings, especially in crowded areas. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists. Use common sense safety practices such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and not leaving valuables unattended.
In case of an emergency, dial 110 for police assistance and 119 for fire and medical emergencies. Most emergency services have English-speaking operators. Nara has several hospitals with emergency rooms, including Nara Medical University Hospital. It's recommended to carry travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available throughout the city.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly casual or revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs. Bow slightly when entering temples and remove shoes when necessary. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly or disabled passengers. Don't speak loudly or make phone calls on public transport. Greetings: Do bow as a sign of respect when greeting locals. A slight bow is sufficient. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and be open to new experiences. Don't walk and eat simultaneously, as it is considered impolite. Always say 'Itadakimasu' before eating and 'Gochisousama' after finishing your meal.
To experience Nara like a local, visit the morning markets such as Nara Kotsu Center Market. Engage with locals who are often friendly and willing to share stories about their city. Take part in traditional tea ceremonies offered at various temples. Visit the less crowded temples like Toshodai-ji and Yakushi-ji for a more serene experience. For a unique activity, try making traditional Nara-style calligraphy or pottery.

When is the best time to visit Nara?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Nara

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Nara. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloこんにちは
  [kon-ni-chi-wa]
- Goodbyeさようなら
  [sa-yo-u-na-ra]
- Yesはい
  [ha-i]
- Noいいえ
  [i-i-e]
- Please/You're welcomeどうぞ
  [do-u-zo]
- Thank youありがとうございます
  [a-ri-ga-to-u-go-za-i-ma-su]
- Excuse me/Sorryすみません
  [su-mi-ma-se-n]
- How are you?お元気ですか？
  [o-ge-n-ki-de-su-ka]
- Fine. And you?元気です。あなたは？
  [ge-n-ki-de-su.a-na-ta-wa]
- Do you speak English?英語を話せますか？
  [e-i-go-o-ha-na-se-ma-su-ka]
- I don't understandわかりません
  [wa-ka-ri-ma-se-n]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseメニューを見せてください
  [me-n-yu-u-o-mi-se-te-ku-da-sa-i]
- I don't eat meat肉は食べません
  [ni-ku-wa-ta-be-ma-se-n]
- Cheers!乾杯!
  [ka-n-pai]
- I would like to pay, pleaseお会計をお願いします
  [o-kai-kei-o-o-ne-ga-i-shi-ma-su]
- Help!助けて!
  [ta-su-ke-te]
- Go away!行って!
  [i-t-te]
- Call the Police!警察を呼んで!
  [ke-i-sa-t-o-yo-n-de]
- Call a doctor!医者を呼んで!
  [i-sha-o-yo-n-de]
- I'm lost道に迷っています
  [mi-chi-ni-ma-ya-t-te-i-ma-su]
- I'm ill具合が悪いです
  [gu-a-i-ga-wa-ru-i-de-su]
- I'd like to buy......を買いたいです
  [o-ka-i-ta-i-de-su]
- I'm just looking見てるだけです
  [mi-te-ru-da-ke-de-su]
- How much is it?いくらですか？
  [i-ku-ra-de-su-ka]
- That's too expensiveそれは高すぎます
  [so-re-wa-ta-ka-su-gi-ma-su]
- Can you lower the price?値段を下げられますか？
  [ne-da-n-o-sa-ge-ra-re-ma-su-ka]
- What time is it?今何時ですか？
  [i-ma-na-n-ji-de-su-ka]
- It's one o'clock1時です
  [i-chi-ji-de-su]
- Half past (10)10時半過ぎ
  [ju-u-ji-ha-n-su-gi]
- Morning朝
  [a-sa]
- Afternoon午後
  [go-go]
- Evening夕方
  [yu-u-ga-ta]
- Yesterday昨日
  [ki-no-u]
- Today今日
  [kyo-u]
- Tomorrow明日
  [a-shi-ta]
- 1一
  [i-chi]
- 2二
  [ni]
- 3三
  [sa-n]
- 4四
  [shi]
- 5五
  [go]
- 6六
  [ro-ku]
- 7七
  [na-na]
- 8八
  [ha-chi]
- 9九
  [kyu-u]
- 10十
  [ju-u]
- Where's a/the...?...はどこですか？
  [...wa-do-ko-de-su-ka]
- What's the address?住所は何ですか？
  [ju-u-sho-wa-na-n-de-su-ka]
- Can you show me (on the map)?地図で見せてくれますか？
  [chi-zu-de-mi-se-te-ku-re-ma-su-ka]
- When's the next (bus)?次の（バス）はいつですか？
  [tsu-gi-no-(ba-su)-wa-i-tsu-de-su-ka]
- A ticket (to ....)切符（...へ）
  [ki-ppu(...e)]

History of Nara

In 710 AD, Nara, then known as Heijō-kyō, was established as the first permanent capital of Japan. This marked the beginning of the Nara period, a time of significant cultural and political development in Japanese history. The city was meticulously planned and modeled after the Tang Dynasty capital of Chang'an, exemplifying the influence of Chinese culture on Japan.
Tōdai-ji, one of Japan's most famous and historically significant temples, was constructed in Nara in 752 AD. The temple is home to the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), one of the largest bronze statues of Buddha Vairocana in the world. The construction of Tōdai-ji played a crucial role in consolidating Buddhism as a state religion in Japan, under the auspices of Emperor Shōmu.
The Nara Period, spanning from 710 to 794 AD, was a time of significant cultural, artistic, and religious development in Japan. During this period, the city of Nara flourished as a center of Buddhist culture and the arts. The Kojiki and Nihon Shoki, Japan's oldest historical records, were compiled during this era, providing invaluable insights into Japan's ancient history and mythology.
During the Nara period, Japan experienced a profound influence from Chinese culture, especially from the Tang Dynasty. This influence is evident in the city's layout, architectural styles, and the adoption of the Chinese writing system. The city of Nara became a hub for the exchange of ideas, technology, and culture between Japan and other parts of Asia.
Kōfuku-ji, another prominent temple in Nara, was founded in 669 AD and became the family temple of the influential Fujiwara clan. The temple complex exemplifies the political power and cultural influence wielded by the Fujiwara family during the Nara period. Kōfuku-ji played a significant role in the political and religious life of the time.
The Shōsō-in, the treasure house of Tōdai-ji Temple, is an important repository of historical artifacts from the Nara period. Built in the 8th century, it houses a vast collection of items, including textiles, ceramics, and documents, which provide a unique glimpse into the cultural and economic life of the period. The Shōsō-in is renowned for its well-preserved artifacts, many of which were gifts from foreign dignitaries.
In 794 AD, the capital of Japan was moved from Nara to Heian-kyō (modern-day Kyoto) by Emperor Kanmu. This marked the end of the Nara period and the beginning of the Heian period. The relocation was motivated by political and strategic reasons, as well as the desire to escape the growing influence of powerful Buddhist temples in Nara. Despite the move, Nara remained an important cultural and religious center.