Nara is a popular city in Japan, located near Kyoto and Osaka. It was actually Japan’s first capital and played a crucial role in early civilization in the country. Today, it is well-known for its temples (one of which is home to the world’s largest bronze statue of Buddha), shrines, and what you’re probably used to seeing on social media, their very friendly deer.
Due to Nara’s close proximity to major cities like Kyoto and Osaka (about 30-45 minutes one-way), it has become a popular spot to day trip to. On my recent travels to Japan, I knew I had to take a visit here. Primarily because of the infamous bowing deer, but also because it’s always nice to get out of the chaotic cities to explore other areas, especially in Japan where everything is so accessible. So here is my guide to make the most out of a day trip to Nara.
How to Get to Nara
Like everywhere in Japan, Nara is very well connected to Japan’s public transit system. Here are the best ways to head there:
From Kyoto:
Rapid trains operate every 30 minutes between Kyoto Station and JR Nara Station and the trip takes around 45 minutes. Local trains also frequent this route twice hourly but takes about 75 minutes, so it’s best you aim for the rapid trains.
From Osaka:
Multiple Yamatoji rapid trains operate every hour between JR Osaka Station and JR Nara Station, with the ride also taking 45 minutes.
Aoniyoshi Limited Express Train form Osaka or Kyoto:
If you want a unique experience, buy tickets in advance for the Aoniyoshi Limited Express Train. This train connects Osaka, Nara and Kyoto, and offers a stylish journey in a train with over 1,300 years of history. The train is small (only 4 cars) and offers large, luxurious seating that allow for optimal sightseeing on your way to Nara. There is also a car with snacks and drinks, and overall it just is a fun, over the top, Japanese experience to have on your way to Nara. Train times and tickets are limited so it’s recommended you book well in advance. What we did is took it to Nara and just took a regular train back. More details can be found here.
What to Do in Nara
Tōdai-ji Temple: A UNESCO World Hertiage Site, Tōdai-ji Temple is a must-visit in Nara. We hesitated on going because it was busy but it ended up being one of the grandest (and our fav) temple we saw on our trip. This temple houses a gigantic bronze statue of Buddha which is the largest in the world. It’s hard to understand the scale by just seeing a picture and is a must-do when visiting. You can also collect a goshuin inside (more on that below).
TIP: We actually found a cute spot for lunch just behind the Tōdai-ji Temple that was a bit off the beaten path and quieter than the main strip. It was called うもと商店 and you can find it on Google Maps here.
Nara Park: Nara Park is a public park and is actually one of the oldest parks in Japan. You can pack or pick-up a picnic to enjoy here or just enjoy a stroll through it. You’ll find lots of friendly deer here who will be looking for snacks. Make sure to buy some of the deer crackers from a local vendor to feed them. Bow first, and they’ll bow back, then give them a treat! You’ll find deer EVERYWHERE so I recommend walking further into the park away from the hoards of people to find some deer on their own.
Kasuga Taisha Shrine: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kasuga Taisha Shrine is known for its thousands of stone and bronze lanterns. Nearby you’ll also find the botanical garden which is also quite impressive.
Nara National Museum: The National Museum in Nara is also a popular visiting spot to learn about Buddhist art. It has rotating exhibits and is located right in Nara Park.
Shop and Eat on Sanjo-dori Street: The main strip of town is lined with all sorts of restaurants, bars, and shops. You can spend some time here strolling through all the tourist spots. Make a stop at Nakatanidou for its famous mochi and mochi pounding show that happens in their windowfront every 30 minutes. Another fun stop which is slightly off the main road is Harushika Sake Brewery where you can do a local sake tasting and I had an excellent matcha latte at Matcha Lab.
Tips for Visiting Nara
Arrive Early: Nara is a very popular tourist destination so it’s important that you arrive early in the day. You also will want to double check the events calendar to make sure you’re avoiding it on holidays.
Spend the Day: Many people will try and cram Nara in among other nearby attractions and day trips, or just come to feed the deer and leave. You are missing so much of Nara by doing this. Give yourself at least a half day to explore and enjoy the city!
Watch Out for the Deer: The deer is Nara are so much fun to visit but they can be sneaky! Be smart when approaching them, and remember they are wild animals. Don’t tease them with the food, make sure you’re feeding them only the crackers sold by vendors, specifically made for deer, and watch your pockets, if they know you have more, they’ll try and get it!
Bring Cash: Some of the shrines and little stores don’t take anything but cash. Japan in general is still a very cash-first country so coming prepared is key to having a great time in Nara without any limitations.
Collect Goshuin: One of my fav souvenirs from Japan was all the goshuin. These are done by artists at temples and shrines in a special goshuin book (which can usually be bought at the temple/shrine). We bought one at the beginning of our trip and collected them every time we saw a booth at any temples and shrines. They are meant to be a token of your visit and are usually done by hand in calligraphy.
Local foods to Try: Like almost every area of Japan, Nara has some unique foods to this region that you should definitely try if you have a chance. One is kakinoha-zushi (sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves), miwa somen (thin wheat noodles), and lastly, deer-shaped sweets and traditional mochi from Nakatanidou.
Why we Loved our Day Trip to Nara
Overall we fell in love with Nara. I wasn’t sure if it was going to be a highlight since it is so touristy and busy but it was actually so much fun and it was a great escape from the busy city of Kyoto. We didn’t try to see everything, just saw the highlights and walked around enjoying the city. If you have time, I would definitely add Nara to your itinerary.
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