day trip to nara from osaka

The Perfect Nara Day Trip (One Day Itinerary)

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If you’re staying in Kyoto or Osaka during your trip to Japan, you may want to take a day trip to Nara. This one day Nara itinerary shows you how to get there and what to do in under 24 hours.

Famous for its hundreds of deer roaming around a large park within the city, beautiful Japanese zen gardens and ancient shrines that date back to when Nara was Japan’s first capital city – Nara shouldn’t be missed when visiting Japan.

Located only a short train ride from both Kyoto and Osaka, taking a day trip to Nara can be the perfect addition to your itinerary. The city is home to eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites

This one day Nara itinerary will help you plan the perfect day trip in this gorgeous little city. Let’s dive in.

8. Take the train back to Kyoto/Osaka

Nara day trip from osaka by train.

One day in Nara overview & map

Not got time to read the full guide? No problem! Here is a quick overview of the Nara day trip itinerary and a map with all points of interest:

Nara day trip itinerary

Here is my one day Nara itinerary, perfect for a day trip from Kyoto or Osaka.

1. Arrive in Nara

Start the day by arriving in the beautiful city of Nara. Whether you’re travelling from Kyoto, Osaka or some other city, I’d highly recommend arriving before 10 AM. Because it’s only a one day trip, you want to make sure you have enough time to see everything.

Nara has two main train stations: JR Nara Station and Kintetsu-Nara station . If you arrive at JR Nara Station, you can start your day by visiting the Tourist Information Centre. It’s located right outside the station and you can pick up a free booklet filled with information about the deer park, the shrines and temples. You can also find a Starbucks in this building.

Kintetsu-Nara station is located a bit closer to the sights we’re going to explore today and if you do not have a JR Pass, it’s usually cheaper to get a train to this station instead. We’ll explain how to get to Nara from either Kyoto or Osaka later in this article .

2. Visit Kofuku-ji temple (Kōfuku-ji)

Kofuku-ji Temple is located only a few minutes from Kintetsu-Nara station. It’s a little bit further from JR Nara Station, but this gives you a chance to walk through some of Nara’s iconic streets. Kofuku-ji Temple is one of the eight UNESCO world heritage sites that can be found in Nara.

Visiting the temple grounds of Kofuku-ji is free. You do have to pay a few hundred yen for entering some of the buildings, including the Central Golden Hall, the Eastern Golden Hall and the National Treasure Museum.

The original Central Golden Hall at Kofuku-ji Temple was destroyed in a fire almost 300 years ago. It has been reconstructed to its original size and opened to the public in October 2018. Inside, you can find the Yakushi Buddha.

Take some time to explore the temple grounds, as there are many shrines and temples to admire. Moving towards the side, you can find the Southern Octagonal Halls . These buildings date back over a thousand years.

3. Wander through Isuien Garden

Next on our Nara day trip itinerary is Isuien Garden. It’s not far from the Kofuku-ji temple grounds. Translated into English, the garden’s name means “garden founded on water”.

The front garden dates back to the 17th century, while the back garden was built in 1899. Inside the garden, you will find several tea houses. This garden is a perfect example of what I imagined Japanese Zen Gardens to look like.

4. Visit Todai-ji Temple

Todai-ji Temple is one of Nara’s most famous buildings. Also listed as a UNESCO world heritage site, Todai-ji is the world’s largest wooden structure. It houses the world’s largest Daibutsu-san, or Bronze Buddha Statue, in the Great Buddha Hall.

The temple was established in 752. If you’re planning your one day in Nara, make sure to stop by this temple – it was by far my favourite sight in the city.

It is almost impossible to grasp the size of Todai-ji. The fact that this building is entirely made out of wood is incredible. At first, we thought the entrance of Todai-ji was the temple (pictured below). We were already blown away at the sheer size of it, only to find the actual temple a bit further down the street…

To enter the building, you pay an entree fee for the museum or buy a combined ticket for the museum and the hall. Inside the hall, you can witness Japan’s largest Buddha statue in bronze.

5. Explore Nara Deer Park and Mt. Wakakusa

By the time you’ll get to Nara Deer Park, you’ll probably already have encountered some deer. It is probably one of Nara’s most famous spots and something the city is definitely using to attract tourists. Shops are filled with stuffed animals in the shape of deer and there are countless little stands selling deer crackers.

Over 1,200 sika deer roam around the park freely. They are wild animals but have grown accustomed to the visitors. They pose for Instagram stories and beg for a few of the deer crackers that are sold around the park. A pack will cost you ¥100 – ¥150 and gives you a chance to feed the deer.

Please make sure to not feed them anything else, you wouldn’t want them to get sick.

A fun fact to keep in mind while visiting Nara Park is that the deer have learned to bow to visitors. Bowing in Japanese culture is a form of showing respect, and the deer will actually return the favour. Give it a go while you’re at the park – chances are, the deer will bow back to you.

Around Nara Park, you can find many shops and food stands. Whether you’re still looking for the perfect souvenir or just looking for a snack, these stands are really fun to nose around in. It’s a great way to support the local community.

6. Visit Kasuga-Taisha

Nara has quite a few shrines and temples to visit. So when you’re only in Nara for one day, you’ll have to pick and choose. That’s why I’d recommend visiting Kasuga-Taisha. It fits perfectly with the walking route of this one-day itinerary and gives you the chance to visit one of Nara’s most beautiful shrines.

Kasuga-Taisha is famous for its 3,000 stone lanterns lining up the path towards the entrance. They are also known as “toro”. This shrine is another one of eight Nara UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It was built in 768 and has been rebuilt every 20 years until 1863. This was done because of the Shinto concept of purity.

7. Shop on Higashimuki Shopping Street & Mochiidono Shopping Arcade

There are plenty of shopping opportunities in Nara, especially at the more touristy places like Nara Deer Park. But if you’re looking for some better places to shop, you should check out Higashimuki Shopping Street and Mochiidone Shopping Arcade.

Both are located within walking distance of each other and filled with unique shops and food stands. If you’re not sure what to buy in Nara, there are lots of options here. Products you can expect to find include kimonos, ceramics, traditional Japanese sweets and handkerchiefs made from traditional Nara fabric.

Most tourist attractions close quite early in Nara. That’s why it’s so important to get here as early as possible. After grabbing some dinner, it’s time to make your way back to either Kyoto or Osaka. This also gives you some time to unwind or grab a drink near your hotel.

For more information on how to get to Nara from Kyoto or Osaka, read the next part of this guide:

How to get to Nara

Since Nara is located close to both Kyoto and Osaka, it makes for the perfect day trip destination. By using the train, you can get to Nara within an hour from either cities.

Nara day trip from Kyoto by train

If you want to visit Nara while staying in Kyoto, you can use the JR Nara Line or the private Kintetsu Line.

If you are a Japan Rail Pass holder, you can use the JR Nara Line with your pass for this trip. From Kyoto, it takes between 40–70 minutes to get to Nara pending on which train you use. You can either use the JR Nara Line Local or the JR Nara Line Rapid Service . If you can get the Rapid Service, I’d recommend it, as it is 25 minutes quicker.

If you don’t have a Japan Rail Pass, you can choose to use the private Kintetsu Line to get to Nara from Kyoto. This train journey will cost you a bit less and will get you to Kintetsu-Nara station within 35 minutes. You can pick this line over the JR line because it’s much quicker, it’s cheaper (if you do not use a JR Pass) and Kintetsu-Nara is located more centrally compared to JR Nara Station.

Visiting Nara for a day trip from Osaka is also possible. Two train lines connect Osaka with Nara: The JR Yamatoji Line and the Kintetsu Nara Line.

If you are using a Japan Rail Pass to travel to Nara, you can use the JR Yamatoji Line. From Osaka Station, it takes about 50 minutes when using the JR Yamatoji Rapid Services .

Are you travelling from JR-Namba Station in Osaka? Then you can get the local train to Shinimamiya Station and then continue your journey on the JR Yamatoji Line to Nara with your JR Pass. 

If you are not using a Japan Rail Pass, you can use the Kintetsu-Nara Line to get to Nara. From Osaka-Namba Station, you can get the Kintetsu Line to Kintetsu-Nara. This train will get you to Nara in 38 minutes.

Picking the Kintetsu-Nara Line over the JR Pass (when you’re not using a JR Pass) makes it cheaper and quicker. It will get you to a more central point in Nara. Kintetsu-Nara Station is located closer to the Deer Park compared to JR Nara Station.

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Where to stay when visiting Nara

Since Nara is easy to reach from both Kyoto and Osaka, it’s best to take a day trip from either of those cities. This way, you’ll avoid having to carry your luggage to Nara for a very short stay. A day trip to Nara is cheap and very easy, as the itinerary above shows.

We have full guides on where to stay in Kyoto and Osaka . In these guides, we’ll share the best areas in each city, along with the best hotels for different types of travellers.

If you are planning on staying in Nara for longer than a day, I’d recommend getting a hotel near the train station. This way you’ll be able to get to the hotel with your suitcases without any hassle and are located close to any sights.

More than one day in Nara?

Even though Nara is perfect for a day trip, there is enough to do and see for more than one day. If you are planning to spend more time in Nara, I recommend checking out some of the following:

• Heijo Palace : Formerly known as Nara’s Imperial Palace, Heiji Palace now acts as a popular tourist attraction. The palace ground is over a square kilometre big and is one of Nara’s World Heritage Sites.
• Yoshikien Garden : A beautiful garden that includes three different styles of Japanese garden scaping. Admission is free for tourists.
• Nara National Museum: Located inside Nara Deer Park, Nara National Museum is filled with statues, scrolls and other ceremonial objects telling the story of Nara’s and Japan’s history. Perfect for a rainy day.

Finish your Japan itinerary

Nara makes for a great day trip, but what else should be on your Japan itinerary? We’ve got a ton of guides about the best places in Japan, including some pre-made itineraries that you can copy for free:

• Three week Japan itinerary
• Two week Japan itinerary
• One day in Osaka
• Two days in Kyoto
• How to plan a trip to Japan
• 50 best things to do in Japan .

Nele (Nay-la) graduated from Manchester Metropolitan University with an English and Creative Writing Degree and has lived in the UK for nearly 10 years. She has had an interest in Japan and its culture for as long as she can remember. Since her first trip in 2018 surpassed all expectations, she has continued to return to Japan to explore more of all it has got to offer. You can read her full story here .

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44 thoughts on “The Perfect Nara Day Trip (One Day Itinerary)”

Thanks for all the great information. I so badly want to visit Japan. Hopefully next year!

Really hope you get to go! It was such a dream come true for me <3

Pretty bussy schedule, but I am sure it was worth it! I will keep your tips in mind, although it will take lots of time, till I get to Japan!

It was definitely worth it ^_^ Luckily, Nara isn’t too big so walking from one place to the other didn’t take too long 🙂 Hope you get to visit soon!

Ahhh looks like such an amazing day trip! Would love to visit Nara one day, the deer look sooo cuuute 😍 Love your blog btw ☺️

Thank you so much! 🙂 We really enjoyed visiting Nara, it was a nice little change from the busy cities haha!

I absolutely loved Nara, and also spent one full day there. 💕 it’s such an enchanting place.

Couldn’t agree more! So lovely 🙂

This is such a good post, I really enjoyed reading it! It’s interesting that it’s rude to eat on the trains in Japan, I eat on trains all the time in the U.K. without a second thought! And it’s so cute that the deers bowed back!

Yeah, I do the same! Especially during longer trips on the train, it’s quite common to eat on them in the UK – luckily I did a bit of research on Japanese etiquettes haha!

I’d never even heard of Nara before but now I can’t wait to visit when we go to Japan! The deer farm looks and sounds so cute too! X http://www.imjustagirl16.co.uk

Definitely try to go if you’re ever back in Japan – it’s such a lovely town!

This play by play of the day is amazing. Japan has been on my travel list for a while now. Places are definitely added!!!

So glad you enjoyed the post! Definitely try to add Nara if you have a spare day in Osaka or Kyoto – it’s so cute!

Nara looks so beautiful, although knowing me I’d stay way too long feeding those cute deer!

Hahaha that’s so cute though! We definitely spent way too much money on those deer crackers haha, couldn’t resist!

This is such a neat looking place to visit! I would love to visit that deer park! Everything looks so beautiful!

It really is such a lovely place, people look after it so well! Hope you get to visit it someday 🙂

I love looking at the temple and the architecture, there’s so much to learn about their history!! I’ve never been to Japan (yet) but I definitely want to go to the Nara deer Park. I didn’t know they could bow back, I think that’s so adorable!! 🤣 Thank you for sharing! xx

I couldn’t agree more, I absolutely loved learning about the history. It’s something that I really appreciate in Japan. There’s so much culture that dates back thousands of years, it’s almost impossible to grasp sometimes!

So much useful information here! I would love to go to the deer park if I ever get to go to Japan, they’re so cute! The architecture is so beautiful too. Amazing photos! I didn’t know that eating on a train is seen as disrespectful in Japan either, that’s definitely a handy tip x

If you ever get the chance to go, please do! Japan was probably my favourite destination every and I really want to go back next year ^^

Japan has always been one of my top places that I one day want to travel too but I’ve never actually heard of Nara which means I have another place to add to my to-do list and places to visit when I finally one day get to go! Thank you for this blog post, it looks like you had an amazing time and I love your photographs!

I’m so glad you learned about Nara in this post! If you ever go to Japan, definitely make sure to plan a little day-trip there. It’s so easy to get to from Kyoto or Osaka and definitely worth your time 🙂

The deer park looks amazing and all of the scenary looks so gorgeous! It’s great that you got to fit so much into one day as well

Kayleigh Zara 🌿 http://www.kayleighzaraa.com

Isn’t it just magical :D? We were really glad to find out that the city centre of Nara isn’ very big, so you can fit a lot into one day ^^

Ma’am, why are you living the dream life aka my dream life??? I am so seriously jealous!! But seriously, this was such a good run down of Nara. I hope I can go there one day and follow your itinerary. But those deer! OMG! I was squeeing just from the pictures! So adorable!!!

https://www.thatweirdgirllife.com

Aww thank you! I really hope you get to visit Japan soon! If you need any help with planning your trip, feel free to message me 🙂

I miss Japan so much. Nara was one of my highlights! Love your pictures too! 😘 Can’t wait to see what comes next!

http://Www.blondedaisychains.co.uk

Thank you lovely! Nara was one of my favourite places, it really felt like “ancient Japan” if that makes sense. I kinda expected Kyoto to be like that more!

Amazing post, thank you so much for sharing, I have wanted to go to Japan for so long! It’s a dream destination of mine, there’s so many places to see – will definitely be booking a trip to Japan at some point <3

Chloe xx http://www.chloechats.com

Thank you Chloe, so glad you enjoyed this itinerary! If you ever go to Japan, feel free to message me and I can help putting a plan together for you ^^

Wow this place looks absolutely stunning – definitely want to take my camera here one day…

It really is just beautiful! Especially during the autumn when the leaves change colours, it’s a dream destination for photographers! 😀

Wow, what a busy day! I have been to Japan but not to Nara I will have to put it on my list of places to visit next time I’m in Japan.

Japan is always a great option and I love going back. Nara is one of the most peaceful places in the country. and the people are nice too. The deer park with the cute deers was my favourite.

Such a good guide to the main sights in Nara! How long would you say this itinerary would take from the Kintetsu-Nara station? I’m thinking of making a half day trip to Nara from Osaka if I can get there early morning, but wanting to squeeze in as much as I can. I’m travelling myself so not planning to stop anywhere too long or for a sit down meal that day, so hoping I could see everything by mid-afternoon. Does that seem doable?

Hi Julie! That does sound doable – it may be best to skip a couple of the sights if you only have half a day (possibly skip Kasuga-Taisha) just to make sure you see as much as possible without having to rush too much 🙂

wow! This is really helpful! I’ll be in Osaka next week and until now, our iti is still finalize. This really help me ensure we can visit NARA efficiently. Thank you so much!

I did this exact itinerary today from JR Nara Station (East Gate) and it worked a treat! Had to speed run a few bits as time was limited (day trip from Osaka, returning there to catch Shinkansen to Tokyo), but we saw more than enough. And the deers really do bow!

So glad to hear this Steve! Hope you had a great time 🙂

We’re planning a day trip to Nara from Kyoto right now. We arrived in Nara around 11:30am. How many hours did this take you to hit all these stops with enough time to explore + take pictures?

You’d probably need around 5-6 hours for all of these, so that’s definitely doable 🙂

Had just a day to see Nara. Found this article and it was perfect! Definitely wear your walking shoes, it was a great and well thought out route. I got in at 10am as recommended and it was cold and rainy…not too crowded and i finished everything by 2pm…including a lunch stop at Mizuya Chaya which is on the way to the Kasuga Taisha shrine. Very small but delicious and friendly, don’t be intimidated! Thanks for the spot-on comprehensive day trip to Nara!

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A wonderful nara day trip from osaka.

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Staying in Osaka and hoping to see the famed bowing deer of Japan? You’re in luck. A Nara day trip from Osaka is a wonderful addition to your itinerary. With one day in Nara you’ll be able to visit the deer park, see some amazing temples and try some local treats.

Our Nara day trip was one of our favourite days in Japan! In this guide I’ll take you through how to undertake a simple and easy self-guided day trip from Osaka to Nara by train.

Not sure how to best manage your money in Japan? Read our Japan money guide to help you get the most out of your budget.

Our Passion For Travel contains affiliate links which may provide a commission. Our reviews and commentary remain independent and commission comes at no cost to you. Income derived help us create more content to help travellers like you make the most of your travel experiences. Read more here .

How to get from Osaka to Nara for a day trip

The easiest and most popular method of visiting Nara from Osaka is by train. There are 2 main train lines that service Nara from Osaka, and which line you’ll choose will depend on two main things:

#1 Your location in Osaka and;

#2 Whether you are in possession of a JR Pass.

Osaka to Nara by train on the Kintetsu line

Kintetsu Railway run a direct train service from Osaka to Nara. The line starts at Osaka-Namba station and terminates at Kintetsu-Nara station.

Services on this line range from local (eg. all stops) to Limited Express. The Limited Express train takes approximately 34 minutes and costs ¥1,070. An Express train is your best option, taking just a little bit longer but costing about half the price at ¥570 yen.

If you’re not staying in the vicinity of Namba station, you’ll need to take a metro to this station first. We were staying in Shin-Osaka, so we took a 15 minute metro ride on the Midosuji Line to Namba station.

Google Maps is a fantastic app to use in Japan. If you’re not already using it, make sure you download it before your Nara day trip. By entering your start location and destination as Nara, it will show you the best transport options, including cost, what train (express etc), and how busy the train is likely to be.

Two key benefits of the Kintetsu line over the JR line are:

#1 The Kintetsu-Nara station is much closer to the Nara deer park than the JR line.

#2 The Kintetsu Railway line can be cheaper than the JR line (unless you hold a JR Pass). 

A hot tip is that often the slower trains are less busy. In Japan we’d often jump on a local service if we could see there were seats available. It might be a little bit longer, but your feet will thank you!

Osaka to Nara by train on the JR line

JR West operates a direct service from JR Osaka station to JR Nara station. The trip will take 45-55 minutes and costs ¥810.

From the JR Nara station it will take about 20 minutes to walk to the entrance to the deer park. If you’d prefer to catch a bus, there is a yellow tourist bus on the “Nara City loop line”. There are local buses which you can use if you’d prefer not to walk.

The benefit of this option is that your trip will be covered if you’re in possession of an activated JR Pass.

Note : this Nara day trip is a poor use of your JR Pass. If you already have an activated JR Pass, then you should definitely use it. However, if you’re just basing yourself in Osaka for a few days and doing this Nara day trip, consider not activating a JR Pass for this purpose alone. A JR Pass is generally only worth it when you are covering long distances on the shinkansen line (bullet trains).

Getting around Nara on your day trip

The main sights that we’ll recommend in this Nara day trip itinerary are all in walking distance of each other. The temples are generally on the edges of Nara Park, so it’s a pleasant day of walking between all of the attractions. But there are still a lot of steps required (we did about 20,000 steps on our Nara day trip). So make sure you wear comfortable shoes. The good news is that the paths are fairly flat, with some stairs at different temples.

If you need some help to get around Nara, or arrive into JR Nara station, consider taking the tourist loop line bus. You can purchase one-way or one day unlimited travel tickets. This guide has useful information on the bus service.

Japan is a unique country. Here’s some things first time travellers might find different in Japan.

What to see in Nara in one day

Without a doubt, the most popular reason to visit Nara on a day trip is to see the famous bowing deer. But, did you know that Nara also has a fascinating history?

From the year 710, Nara was the first permanent capital of Japan. Buddhism grew in power and influence in the region, which threatened to de-stabilise the government. So, in 784 the capital was moved to a different location.

Given the strong history of Buddhism in Nara, there are many important reminders of this past. For this reason, Ancient Nara has been deemed a UNESCO World Heritage site , encompassing 8 properties. Our day trip itinerary will see you visit 2 of these temples and one shrine.

Would you prefer someone to show you around Nara? This tour from Klook will let you pay a visit with transport and a guide .

Visit your first temple

Just a short walk from the Kintetsu-Nara station is your first stop on this itinerary: Kofukuji temple.

Before you get to the temple grounds though, you’ll likely spot at least a dozen deer around the grounds. That’s right, almost as soon as you leave the station you’ll come across the famous deer! You might even find them wandering down the main road outside the station as we did. It will be hard to tear yourself away from them, but I promise you your day will be filled with lots more deer. Save your photos until you get into the middle of Nara Park.

It’s free to wander the grounds of Kofukuji temple, where the main attraction is the large 5 storey pagoda. Dating back to the 7 th century, it is the second tallest pagoda in Japan. Access inside the pagoda is not allowed, so you’ll just need to appreciate it from the outside.

On site you’ll also find the Central Golden Hall, Eastern Golden Hall and the National Treasure Museum. If you’re interested in entering it requires an additional fee, starting at ¥300. We decided that this temple fell into the “nice to observe from the outside” category and saved our time for more Nara exploring.

Head further into Nara Park

I promised you lots more deer spotting, and now is your time to go crazy with photos. Nara Park is a large public space that is filled with the deer that roam the grounds. They’re literally everywhere, trying to get some sweet treats from all the tourists.

To get here from Kofukuji, just keep walking in the opposite direction of the train station until you get to the main road. Cross the road (there is an underpass if you’re walking along the road into the park named ‘Omiya-dori’.) From here, walk up into the park a little and explore. You’ll want to head left, as that’s the spot of the next attraction in your Nara itinerary.

We visited Nara Park at the end of November, and the fall foliage was simply beautiful. There’s a stream that runs through the park and is a wonderful spot for taking photos.

As you walk through the park you’ll spot lots of vendors selling crackers to feed the deer. We decided that we didn’t want to feed the deer, as we have a personal rule not to feed wild animals. If you want to feed the deer, please ensure that this is the only food you give them. The going rate was about ¥200. Just be forewarned that as soon as you’re in possession of the crackers, the deer will seek you out. There are signs around the park warning tourists that the deer can get aggressive too, which includes biting and kicking. If you do have food, give it to the nearest deer and don’t tease them.

As we walked through the park, we spotted some deer that bow. It seems that they’ve learnt to do this over time as a way to get some crackers. It sure is a cute thing to watch!

See the big Buddha of Todaiji temple

Next up on your Nara day trip itinerary is a visit to the most famous temple in Nara, Todaiji. Whilst it’s an impressive structure from the outside, the real highlight here is the big Buddha. It sits at 15 metres high and is housed within the main hall. This hall also held the title for many years as the largest wooden structure in the world.

To see the Big Buddha hall you’ll need to pay an entrance fee of ¥600 (cash only). We thought this entry fee was well worth it.

Once you’re finished viewing the big Buddha, you can explore more of the Todaiji temple complex. We headed up to Nigatsu-do, a hall within the complex. Whilst it did require a few flights of stairs, we were rewarded with great views of Nara down below. If you’re looking for some peace and quiet after the throngs of people in the park, this spot is a nice respite. In one of the side buildings you’ll find a room that has been set up as a chill out area, complete with free tea and toilets.

Keep strolling through the park

From Nigatsu-do, walk south along the eastern perimeter of Nara Park. We loved this part of the park, as you’ll be walking through a concentrated area of temples and halls. There were still quite a lot of deer roaming around these parts too.

You’ll eventually hit a road lined with shops, including souvenir stores and some restaurants. You can stop here if you’re feeling peckish, or take a break in the park opposite the shops.

See the lanterns of the Kasuga-taisha shrine

A must do on your Nara day trip itinerary is a visit to the Kasuga Grand Shrine. The most popular Shinto shrine in the area, it dates back to 768.

This shrine is most well known for its lanterns. Stone lanterns line the path up to the shrine. Once you arrive you’ll be surrounded by rows of bronze lanterns. 

It’s free to enter the outer grounds, which includes the path leading to the shrine with the stone lanterns. There is a special admission area, which costs ¥500 for entry. Here you’ll be able to see a darkened hall with the lanterns alight. We opted not to pay to go in, satisfied with the impressive lanterns we could observe from the free area.

Afternoon shopping and treats

By now you’ve had a long day with lots of walking and temple viewing. It’s time for a treat! But first, you’ll need to walk back to Nara town, towards the train station. This time walk down Sanjo dori St.

Stop in for some Japanese treats at Nakatanidou. Here you’ll spot freshly made mochi being whipped up before your eyes. If you’re a little dubious about whether you’ll like them, you can buy one for just ¥150. We’ve no doubt you’ll drop a few more yen after your first though.

From here, head down the Higashimuki Shopping Street. If you’re looking for souvenirs, this undercover shopping arcade is your spot.

Now your Nara day trip has come to an end. If you’re headed back to Osaka on Kintetsu Railway, the train station is just around the corner. If you’re headed back on JR Railway, it’s a 20 minute walk to the station, or jump on a local bus.

Other considerations for your Nara day trip

Whilst there are restaurants all around the vicinity of Nara Park, we opted to grab an early lunch from 7/11 when we arrived in Nara. If you’re not yet acquainted with the humble Japanese convenience store lunch, I can tell you that you’re missing out! Lawsons, 7/11 and Family Mart all have good quality fare on offer, including sandwiches, sushi, cup noodles and hot food. I can highly recommend the 7/11 Egg Salad sandwich, which has a bit of a cult following on social media (partly thanks to Anthony Bourdain). Eating an early lunch meant we were free to explore Nara Park and its temples all day, and headed back to Osaka for dinner.

If you love a Japanese Garden, consider heading to Isui-en Garden. Located close to Todaiji temple, this is a highly rated small garden. It’s closed on Tuesdays, which is the day we visited Nara, so we missed out. It’s not the cheapest attraction, with an entry fee of ¥900. If you’ve been, I’d love to hear how you found it!

During our day in Nara we found toilets within the train station, near the entrance to Todaiji temple and in the rest area at Nigatsu-do. Like many facilities at temples in Japan, there usually is no soap available. It’s useful to carry some antibacterial gel. Particularly if you plan to feed the deer, so you can use it afterwards.

Whilst card is widely accepted throughout the major cities of Japan, most of the temple visits here were cash only. Make sure you’re on top of your money situation and have some cash on hand.

Heading to Nara from Kyoto?

No problem! Nara is also an easy day trip from Kyoto by train. In fact, many people head to Nara in between moving from Kyoto to Osaka. The train stations at Nara have locker facilities, so you can store your bags for a fee whilst you explore the town.

We hope this 1 day Nara itinerary is helpful and you have an amazing time in Japan! If you’ve got any questions please do let us know in the comments below!

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Nara Day Trip Itinerary – How To Spend One Day In Nara

Posted on Last updated: June 7, 2021

I haven’t been everywhere, but I’ve seen my fair share of beautiful Asian travel destinations . Each of them has its own unique culture, flavour and flair. But my time in Nara, Japan , was something extra special.  

The ancient city is known (and loved) for its beautiful temples and tame deer that roam throughout the area. The compact city is small enough to be tackled in a day, leaving your memory bank full of timeless moments.

If you’re planning a Nara day trip from Kyoto or Osaka, then this one-day itinerary is the perfect asset to help you kickstart your adventures.

In this Nara day trip guide I cover everything you need to know, including how to get there, how to get around and the best things to see if you only have one day in Nara.

• 1 How to get to Nara (from Osaka or Kyoto)
• 2.1 Stop 1: Kofukuji Five-Storied Pagoda
• 2.2 Stop 2: Todaiji Temple
• 2.3 Stop 3: Kasuga-Taisha Temple
• 2.4 Stop 4: Wander around Nara Park
• 3.1 In Kyoto
• 3.2 In Osaka

Trying to befriend one of the deer in Nara

How to get to Nara (from Osaka or Kyoto)

One of the best parts about planning a day trip to Nara is how easy it is to get to. Most visitors come from either Osaka or Kyoto, both of which have efficient public transport.

If you’re coming from Osaka Namba Station, you can get on a Rapid Express train that travels along the Kintetsu Nara Line. If you’re travelling from Kyoto to Nara, the Miyakoji rapid train leaves from Kyoto Station every 30 minutes.

The journey from both destinations consists of approximately one hour. The routes are included in the Japan Rail Pass , making the trip both easy and cost-effective.

Click here to purchase your Japan Rail Pass!

If you don’t want to travel by train and wander around Nara by yourself you can also do an organised day tour, which will takes you to all of the beautiful spots I’m about to list in this itinerary, with the added benefit of a knowledgeable local guide.

There are day trips available both from Osaka and Kyoto .

Click here to see all the details for a day tour to Nara from Osaka , and here for a day trip to Nara from Kyoto !

One of the buddha statues inside Todaiji temple in Nara, Japan

The ultimate Nara itinerary for one day

It’s very easy to get absorbed by the beauty of Nara. Arriving with a plan and a few bucket list activities is essential. If you still need some convincing and are wondering what to do in Nara, then look no further.

Once you exit JR Nara Station just head straight on to Sanjo dori Street. From here it’s a short 15-20 minute walk to Nara Park, where all the main attractions of Nara are located.

Stop 1: Kofukuji Five-Storied Pagoda

The Kofukuji pagoda consists of five floors, each showcasing traditional Japanese architecture and is truly a sight to behold. Even more impressive than the significant structure is the historical story that it tells.

Kofukuji Five-Storied Pagoda in Nara, Japan

The temple was first established in Nara back in 1710 and was used as a family temple of the Fujiwara (who were the most influential aristocratic clan at the time). The pagoda is a single structure in a group of several buildings.

Reaching up to 50 meters in height, the five-story pagoda is revered as Japan’s second-tallest wooden pagoda. Entrance to the temple grounds is free, making a visit the perfect budget-friendly addition to your Nara one day itinerary.

If you want to delve a little deeper into the history of the temples and surrounds, then you can pay a little bit extra to see the Eastern Golden Hall and Kofukuji’s National Treasure Museum.

The pagoda is easy to reach. If you arrive by Kintetsu Nara Station, then it’s a short five-minute walk. If you arrive at JR Nara Station, then the walk is a little bit longer (20 minutes).

Exploring Nara in Japan

Stop 2: Todaiji Temple

A visit to Nara would be incomplete without a stop by Todaiji Temple. The sacred building is one of the most important temples in the whole of Japanese Buddhism and serves as the headquarters of Kegon teachings .

Visiting it is considered one of the best things to do in Japan , and it’s easy to see why.

Not only is Todaiji Temple majestic in appearance, but it is resilient in structure. The temple was built in 753 and has survived, quote, “earthquakes, fires and political mayhem”.

Entrance fees for the museum or the Great Buddha Hall are ¥500 separately, or ¥800 for a joint ticket. This fee is well-worth the remarkable experience.

The outside of Todaiji temple in Nara, Japan

The Todaiji Temple is home to the biggest bronze Buddha statue in the world, which spans up to 15-meters tall. The impressive sight can be viewed once inside the temple.

I spent two weeks in Japan and have to admit that by the time I arrived in Nara, I was a bit “templed out”. I was so templed out I almost didn’t go inside the Todaiji Temple and was about to settle on just seeing the grand exterior.

I’m glad my friends convinced me to go inside because the sight of the three buddhas one next to the other, inside the magnificient halls is really impressive. Inside the temple you can also find little stalls that sell lucky charms and souvenirs.

The esteemed temple is located at the northern end of Nara Park. You can easily get here from the Kofukuji Pagoda in a 30-45 minute stroll through Nara Park.

If like me you get distracted by the beautiful deers that roam free, it might take a bit longer!

Admiring the giant statues inside Todaiji temple in Nara, Japan

Stop 3: Kasuga-Taisha Temple

If you’ve been following my travel tips and experiences, then you’ll know that I am fascinated with unique and beautiful temples.

With this in mind, Nara is the best destination for temple-lovers. Kasuga-Taisha Temple is the third one for the day and a must-see sight on your Nara tour.

Celebrated as more of a ‘shrine’ than a ‘temple’, Kasuga-Taisha is a popular attraction to visit in Nara. The traditional structure is dedicated to the deity that is responsible for the protection of the city.

The outside of Kasuga-Taisha Temple in Nara

The walkway up to the main building is set in lush greenery and lined with over 3,000 austenitic lanterns.

The beauty of the setting makes a visit to Kasuga-Taisha Temple a great practice opportunity for budding photographers, so make sure that you pack your camera.

Travellers can visit the outer area of the temple for free, but stepping inside the sanctuary will cost ¥500.

Once inside the bright, red columns and white walls, travellers are met with beautifully ordained shrines that are dedicated to the lucky gods, making you feel even more lucky to see it yourself.

Exploring Kasuga-Taisha Temple in Nara, Japan

Stop 4: Wander around Nara Park

Once you’ve ticked off the main structural attractions in Nara, then you can take your time to soak up the beauty of Nara Park.

The park is located in central Nara and is known around the world to be the home of hundreds of freely roaming deer. The only other place where we’ve seen tame wild deers in Japan was Miyajima Island .

With all of the above-mentioned temples located within the park, chances are that you’ve already caught a glimpse or two of these cute, friendly creatures while going from one to the other.

A female deer and her fawn in Nara Park

These deer have become a symbol of the city, and are considered by locals as messengers of the gods. Although they are surprisingly tame, they can become a bit aggressive if you tease them with food.

If you really want to feed them, then you can buy some deer crackers within the park. I’ve seen some people pet the deer but like all wild animals, you should be careful not to bother them too much.

You should also be careful if you’re carrying food in packagings, as they might snatch it from your hands and you don’t want them munching on the plastic wrapper of your Twix. Nara Park is a beautiful spot to end off your full day in the city. 

One of the deer wandering free around Nara Park

Where to stay to visit Nara on a day trip

Whether you’re visiting Nara on a day trip from Kyoto or Osaka you should aim to stay somewhere close to a train station, so that you can minimise travel within Kyoto and Osaka before even getting onto a train to Nara.

In Kyoto I was staying at Hotel Elcient Kyoto which was right across from the train station in Kyoto. The staff were always helpful, the rooms clean and fairly spacious, and besides the train station to visit Nara it was conveniently located also to explore Kyoto. 

Click here to see the latest prices and availability at Hotel Elcient Kyoto!

One of the statues inside Todaiji temple in Nara, Japan

In Osaka I stayed at Hotel Monterey La Soeur Osaka . This hotel was close both to a train station and Osaka castle, which was perfect.

After our day trip exploring Nara we were close to one of the main attractions in Osaka, as well as being connected to everything else we wanted to see in the city.

Click here to see the latest prices and availability at Hotel Monterey La Soeur Osaka!

If this one-day itinerary has got you excited about your trip, but you don’t want to travel by train or wander around alone, then you can also do day trip tour which takes you to all of these spots with the benefit of a knowledgeable local guide.

One of the many wild deers in Nara Park, Japan

Final thoughts on a day trip to Nara

We visited Nara as a day trip from Osaka and loved it. This Japanese city is so rich in history and culture, but also offers a relaxing atmosphere to explore it all in.

I spent two weeks in Japan and after the chaos and bustle of Tokyo and Kyoto, it was a pleasant change. It reminded me a bit of our day trip to Kamakura and our  visit to Himeji Castle earlier during our Japan trip.

Get ready for a fantastical day in Nara, filled with temples, history and, of course, cute deer. This Nara 1-day itinerary is based on what I got up to when I visited Nara, I hope you find it useful in planning your day trip to Nara.

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Perfect Day Trip to Nara from Osaka or Kyoto

One good thing about staying in Kyoto or Osaka when visiting Japan is how easily accessible they are to other cities for a day trip. You could easily visit Hiroshima, Kobe, Kinosaki, Nagoya, and Nara.

Cecilio and I took a day trip to Nara from Osaka through the train, and it was only 40 minutes away. We had our sights set on the famous sika deer that roam around the town. Millions of tourists visit Nara per year to see, feed, and play with the deer (and there are over 1,200 of them too!). While the deer mostly hang out in Nara Park, you’ll see them scattered across town roaming the streets and temples.

Nara is also deeply rooted in history, as it was the first permanent capital of Japan from 710-794 before it moved to Kyoto, and then ultimately, Tokyo after the Meiji Restoration .

Luckily, you can easily take a day trip to Nara from Osaka or Kyoto through the train. Nara is an hour away from both cities by train, and roughly 45 minutes through driving.

This post will guide you on how to make the most of your day in Nara within just a few hours!

Disclaimer:  This post uses affiliate links, which means I make a commission if you book through this post. If you do decide to book using my links, thank you so much for your support!

Higashimuri Shopping Street

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This shopping area filled with gift shops, cafes, and eateries is around the corner from the Kintetsu Nara Station. Most people taking a day trip to Nara from Osaka or Kyoto end up at the Kintetsu Nara Station, and it’s only across the street from Nara Park!

Cecilio and I bought some iced coffee in Higashimuri Shopping Street before we walked to Nara Park because I was exhausted and falling asleep on the train (and as much as I loved our hotel in Osaka, the buffet coffee was weak AF).

Once we were done for the way and before going back to Osaka, we had lunch at Haginoya , a Japanese sit-down restaurant where I ordered a small plate of sushi and Cecilio had a bento box. We then went to Grancha to get some soft-serve ice cream. Grancha is known for its scrumptious matcha-flavored Japanese treats like mochi, pudding, and chocolate.

Don’t forget to stop by a gift shop; they will sell cute deer-themed gifts like plushies, magnets, shirts, candy, and more!

Nara Park is the most popular attraction in the city, and where most of the deer congregate. It’s not just tourists who come to see them; flocks of teenagers walk to Nara Park after school to hang out and tease them (in a playful way). It’s free to enter Nara Park and it is open 24/7.

In front of Nara Park (and everywhere around Nara in general), there are booths with senior citizens cooking senbei (rice crackers) for people to sell and feed the deer. You can purchase a pack of 10 crackers for 150 yen (approximately $1.06).

Once you have your stack of crackers, be prepared for hordes of deer to follow you around; they are HUNGRY! Also, some of them will outright harass you. They can get pretty aggressive. There was a big-boned deer (with long, curled, thick horns) who kept following me, even when I was trying to run and hide behind Cecilio. It even kept bumping into me to make sure I fed them a cracker. I had to throw the cracker at them so it would leave me alone. It was bullying all the other deer too.

Oh, did I mention that one of the deer ate my keychain that Cecilio got me from a machine? It was a mochi plush keychain dangling from my bag 🤦🏻‍♀️

Fun fact:  Japanese people greet each other by bowing instead of shaking hands. The deer have learned this and actually bow to the people to feed them, as another way of begging! It’s super cute!

While it may not be as grand as other shrines and temples in Nara, Himuro Jinja Shrine has a rich history, with it being built in 710 and relocated to Nara in 1217. It is dedicated to Himuro Myojin, the god of ice (Himuro means ice house , ice room , or cold room ). This explains why there are freezers and ice blocks around the shrine. Pre-COVID era, the shrine hosted the annual Himuro Shirayuki Festival, where there would be dozens of stalls selling kakigori , Japanese shave ice.

Emporer Nintoku, the 16th Emperor of Japan, was enshrined here. Not much is known about him other than that his body may be in the Mozu Kofun Tombs, the largest cemetery in Japan near Osaka.

Nara is home to the Seven Great Temples (Nanto Shichi Daiji) , with Todai-ji being the most well-known one. These temples were built under Emperor Shomu’s rule to influence Japan with Buddhism as the answer to political unrest and riots. Todai-ji Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site just a few blocks away from Nara Park. You’ll see more deer relaxing on the side or roaming around the temple. It’s just so funny how they blend in with the humans no matter where you go!

Todai-ji Temple houses the largest Daibutsu (large bronze Great Buddha statue) in the world, at 15 meters (49 feet) tall.

While you can walk around the temple grounds for free, admission to see the Daibutsu is 600 yen (USD 4.25) for ages 13 and up. You can also purchase a pass to see the Daibutsu and the Todaiji Museum for 1000 yen (USD 7.09). While Cecilio and I walked around the temple, we didn’t go to see the Buddha, and I low-key regretted it. I’m not even Buddhist but I still would’ve wanted to see it. So if you’re thinking about buying the ticket, do it!

If you decide to not visit Todai-ji Temple for your day trip to Nara, here are other six of the Seven Great Temples to go to:

Dig deeper into Japan’s Buddhist culture in the Nara National Museum. Established in 1899, the museum is filled with Buddhist sculptures, paintings, and objects from various shrines and temples in Nara. There is also a collection of bronze objects from China dating as early as the Erligang Era in 1600-1400 BC.

If neither of these attractions in Nara is in your interest (if you have to go to one, let it at least be Nara Park), here are some alternatives you can swap out or add to your Nara itinerary:

• Kasuga Taisha Shrine
• Isuien Gardens
• Yoshiki-en Garden
• Naramachi (Nara’s Old District)
• Mount Wakakusa
• Nara Prefectural Art Museum

You can also visit these attractions if you decide that you want to stay overnight in Nara and experience all that the town has to offer.

How to get to Nara

The best way to go on a day trip to Nara from Osaka is through the train. You can either take the JR Yamatoji Line or the Kintetsu Nara Line .

The JR Yamatoji Line is fully covered by the Japan Rail Pass . You can purchase the pass in 7, 14, or 21-day increments depending on how long you stay. If you are exploring different parts of Japan and not sticking to one area I highly recommend it. You need the pass to take the Shinkansen (bullet train). The Japan Rail Pass allows you to ride any of the JR network trains, including local and express trains.

🚅 Get your Japan Rail Pass today!

The Kintetsu Nara Line is not covered by the Japan Rail Pass because they are operated by Kintetsu Railway, a private company. I suggest you get the Suica card, and reload it as needed. If you have an iPhone, you can link the Suica card to Apple Pay, and you can scan your phone at the train entrances. You can use the Suica card for transportation (except for the Shinkansen) and shopping.

If you’re coming from the Kyoto Station for your day trip to Nara, you can take the Miyakoji Rapid train on the JR Nara Line, which is only a 45-minute ride.

Or you can take the Kinetsu Kyoto Line, which leads you to the Kinetsu Nara Line.

No matter where you are coming from, I recommend taking the routes that lead you to Kinetsu Nara Line. It is much closer to all the attractions. It’s a corner away from Higashimuri Shopping Street, and a few yards away from Nara Park.

Tours to Nara from Osaka and Kyoto

If you’d rather have the convenience of going on a private or group tour or need guidance with using the train, I’ve compiled a list of possible tours you can book depending on your budget!

• From Kyoto: Nara Guided Half Day Bus Tour
• From Osaka: Guided Day Trip to Kyoto and Nara
• From Kyoto: Guided Day Trip to Kyoto and Nara with Lunch
• Kyoto and Nara 1 Day Bus Tour from Osaka/Kyoto
• From Kyoto/Osaka: Kyoto and Nara Guided 1-Day Trip
• Kyoto & Nara Day Tour from Osaka/Fushimi Inari, Arashiyama
• Nara Private Tour by Public Transportation from Kyoto
• From Kyoto or Osaka: Private Walking Tour through Nara
• From Osaka/Kyoto: Private Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Pickup
• From Osaka: Nara Customizable Private Day Tour
• From Osaka: 10-hour Private Custom Tour to Nara

Frequently Asked Questions

While Cecilio and I spent around 4-5 hours in Nara, you can spend all day there. It’s completely up to you. If I were to do things differently, I would’ve spent more time there to scope out more of the temples and go to one of the museums.

Both Kyoto and Osaka are equidistant to Nara, so it’s completely up to you! I suggest doing your day trip to Nara based on where you’re staying longer. Since we spent only 2 nights in Kyoto and 4 nights in Osaka, we decided to go to Nara from Osaka.

Millions of tourists flock to Nara every year to see the deer roam freely and to pet and feed them. Todai-ji Temple is also Nara’s most famous temple, as it houses the largest Buddha statue in the world.

Last but not least, it’s close and easily accessible from Kyoto and Osaka.

If you’re spending an extended time in Japan, especially in either Kyoto or Osaka (or both), I can’t recommend taking a day trip to Nara enough! From surrounding yourself with thousands of deer throughout the streets to strolling to Todai-ji Temple, Nara deserves a spot in your Japan itinerary!

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Hannah Padilla

Hannah is a travel writer, graphic designer, and the founder/editor of Hannah on Horizon. She is based in Sacramento, California, living with her husband and two adorable dogs. She shares tips on how to experience luxury travel on any budget, and how to maximize time at each trip or destination, no matter what your budget or amount of vacation time at work. She enjoys making you feel like you have visited each destination with her through her storytelling and informative writing style.

Nara Day Trip from Osaka – Nara Walking Tour to Visit Japan ’ s Cute Deer!

Nara is home to Japan’s famous (and super cute!) free roaming deer and incredible temples. It’s super easy to take a day trip to Nara from Osaka, as the train from Osaka to Nara takes as little as 35 minutes. This Nara walking tour covers what to do in Nara in one day, deer selfies included!

Why Take a Nara Day Trip?

I was instantly sold on a Nara day trip when I spotted snaps of Nara’s free roaming deer. Combines my two loves perfectly – animals and travel!

However, beyond the (utterly gorgeous) Nara deer, Nara is also a ridiculously picturesque town. Nara was once the capital of Japan (well at least in the 8th century AD!) and is chockablock with with ancient temples.

If you’re visiting Japan and planning your Japan itinerary , a day trip to Nara is a must do in my books. Nara’s a pretty compact city, and you can easily plan a Nara itinerary to explore the key sights on foot in just one day.

How to Get to Nara

Nara is less than one hour by train from Osaka or Kyoto.

Nara from Osaka

There are two train lines to Nara from Osaka, which take just 35-50 minutes. The JR Yamatoji Line is covered by the Japan Rail Pass . The Kintetsu Nara Line from Osaka to Nara is not covered by the JR Pass, but it is faster and the train stations are more central.

JR Yamatoji Line: The Yamatoji Rapid Service from Osaka Station to JR Nara Station takes around 50 minutes. This line is included in the JR Pass.

Kintetsu Nara Line:  The Kintetsu Nara Line travels from Osaka Namba Station to Kintetsu Nara Station. This line is not included in the JR Pass. The Rapid Express train takes around 40 minutes, and the Limited Express train takes around 35 minutes. The Limited Express train is roughly twice the price of the Rapid Express train, so probably not worth the 5 minute time saving!

Nara from Kyoto

Nara is an easy day trip from Kyoto, and is worth adding into your Kyoto itinerary if you’re in Kyoto for a few days or more. There are also two train lines to Nara from Kyoto, which take 35-45 minutes.

JR Nara Line: The express service from JR Kyoto Station to JR Nara Station takes around 45 minutes. There is also a longer service by local train. This line is included in the JR pass.

Kintetsu Nara Line: The express service from Kintetsu Kyoto Station to Kintetsu Nara Station takes around 35 minutes. This line is not included in the JR Pass.

Overview of Nara Itinerary

Distances between the two most famous temples (Todaiji and Kasuga) and back to Nara Station

Time Required for Nara 1 Day Itinerary

A day trip to Nara will take up to 10 hours. Allow 2 hours total for the return trip to Nara, and around 5-7 hours to explore Nara. You may need longer if you want to go inside several temples or have frequent breaks.

The Nara walking tour below took me 5 hours door to door from Nara Station. I love architecture from the outside, but am not a fan of seeing every nook and cranny of every temple. I didn’t go inside the temples, and only had 30 minutes for lunch. Plus, I’m a pretty fast walker!

Nara Attractions

My Nara one day itinerary is temple and deer heavy, but also includes time for the parks, historic neighborhoods and even a bit of cheeky sake tasting.

Most Nara temples are open from 9am – 5pm. It’s free to enter Nara Park and walk around the temple grounds. Some temples charge an entry fee to go inside, usually Y200 – Y600. You can also buy deer biscuits for Y150.

Nara Walking Tour Map

This Nara walking route is 10 – 13km door to door from JR Nara Station, including time walking between and around sites. My walk was over 12km. As with my Hiroshima walking tour , I didn’t have my Nara walk fully mapped out in advance, and took a couple of wrong turns.

If you want to shorten your Nara walking tour, arrive at Kintetsu-Nara station which is around 1.5km closer to Nara Park, or get the bus to/from Nara Park.

Follow my Google Maps Nara route for an awesome Nara day trip itinerary. Don’t worry about getting lost – Nara is possibly the best sign posted place in Asia. There’s maps and signs galore, in both English and Japanese, with directions and distances. Most temples are between a few hundred meters and 1km apart. All distances below are approximate.

What to Do in Nara

The most popular things to do in Nara are to explore Nara Park which is home to free-roaming deer, and visit the Nara temples. As incredible as Nara’s temples are, I’ll admit that it’s pretty easy to get templed-out. I decided to focus on a mix of popular and smaller temples, see as many deer as I could, and leave time to wander around Nara town.

Stop 1: Kofuku-Ji Temple (Map B)

Distance:   Walk 1.4km from Nara Station to Kofuku-ji temple. Shorter from Kintetsu Nara Station.

Start your Nara walking tour with a quick introduction to the Nara temples. Walk east from Nara Station until you find the Kofuku-ji temple complex. Kofuku-ji includes a number of temples. The highlights for me were the octagon shaped temple (above) and the five storied pagoda.

Stop 2: Japanese Gardens – Yoshiki-en or Isuien (Map C)

Distance: Walk 800m  from Kofuku-ji temple to Yoshiki-en gardens.

A 10 minute walk north-east takes you to your next stop on your Nara day trip – Yoshiki-en gardens. Yoshiki-en has a few examples of traditional Japanese gardens like a moss garden and a tea ceremony house. It’s pretty small, but entry is free and, hey, everyone likes free stuff. And as you can see from my photo above, it’s super picturesque!

If Japanese gardens are your jam or if you have an extra day in Nara, then don’t miss Isuien gardens. Isuien gardens are right next door to Yoshiki-en, and are regarded as the most beautiful gardens in Nara. Entry is Y900, so I gave it a miss.

Stop 3: Todaiji Gate and Temple (Plus Deer!!!) (Map D)

Distance: Walk 1.2km from Yoshiki-en gardens to Todaiji-temple, via Nandaimon Gate of Todaiji.

Todai-ji temple is a UNESCO world heritage site, and is one of the more popular (read: crowded!) temples in Nara. While it is very pretty, I prefer to avoid crowds, so I pretty much walked past and exited stage left without going inside.

Make sure you walk from the Japanese gardens via the Nandaimon Gate of Todaiji (see piccy above). I have a thing for ginormous and intricate gates (gates are so boring these days!) and the Todaiji gate was nothing short of spectacular.

Happy to pose for selfies, until they realise you’re out of deer biscuits

You’ll also get your first taste of the famous Nara deer on your walk to and around Todaiji temple. You can buy a stack of deer biscuits for Y150 from the street side vendors.

Nara deer are greedy buggers so a pack of biscuits lasts all of 30 seconds . These deer know what side their bread is buttered on. They’ll spot you purchasing deer biscuits, hightail it over to you, and start nudging you while you unwrap it. Once they’ve decimated your biscuits, lift your hands in the air to show them that the party’s over.

Nara deer are particularly crafty at sniffing out (and stealing!) anything edible, so keep any other food closed in your bag.

Stop 4: Nigatsu-do Temple (Map E)

Distance:  Walk 500m  from Todaiji-ji to Nigatsu-do temple.

Nigatsu-do temple is 5-10 minutes walk from Todaiji-ji and has lovely views over Nara. The walk may take a little longer if you stop to pet and feed all the deer along the way!

By this time, I was peckish so stopped at one of the nearby cafes to have a late brunch and stretch the legs.

Stop 5: Nara Park (Map F)

Distance:  Walk 600-800m from Nigatsu-do to Nara Park, depending on the paths you take.

You don’t actually need to go to the small ‘Nara Park’ area on the map to see deer, as they are everywhere around the broader Nara Park and temples. You could equally walk direct from Nigatsu-do straight to Kasuga and save your legs some extra walking.

I took this slight detour from my planned Nara walking route to Nara Park, just in case there were some magical deer that I wouldn’t see elsewhere. The park is pretty and perhaps has a slightly higher concentration of deer. It’s also a nice diversion in case you’re starting to get temple fatigue.

Stop 6: Kasuga-Taisha and Wakamiya Shrine (Map G)

I think someone spots a deer biscuit …

Distance:   Walk   1km  from Nara Park to Kasuga-taisha temple.

From Nara Park, it’s a flat walk and then a short climb up hill to Kasuga-taisha temple. (Not a big hill, I promise.) Kasuga-taisha is also a very popular shrine, and was one of the busier ones I visited. Again, I didn’t go in.

My fav part was the hundreds of stone lanterns (above) that line the paths around the temple, with cute little deer peeking out.

Stop 7: Shinyakushi-ji Temple (Map H)

Distance:  Walk 1km from Kasuga-taisha to Shinyakushi temple.

From Kasuga-taisha, take the path through the forest past Wakamiya and Kinryu shrines. This was my favorite walking part of my day in Nara, as you’re suddenly in a denser forest away from the crowds.

Keep heading south and, if you’re not all templed out, stop at Shinyakushi-ji temple. (Last temple, I promise! If you’re a temple junkie, there’s tonnes more scattered around the city.)

I popped into Shinyakushi-ji since it was on my way. The best thing about Shinyakushi-ji is that it’s outside the main Nara tourist area, so was serene and quiet. However, at Y600 with not a lot to see (I stayed for 5 minutes), you can give this one a miss if you’re counting pennies.

Stop 8: Harushika Sake Tasting (Map I)

Distance:  Walk 1.3km from Shinyakushi-ji temple to Harushika Sake Brewery.

By now, I was well and truly templed-out . I was tired. My feets hurted. (Too tired for proper English.) So I decided to pop into Harushika Sake Brewery  which offers sake (rice wine) tastings for Y500. I’m not a massive sake fan, but when in Rome and all that.

I tasted 6 different sakes and, what do ya know, they do all actually taste different after all! Dry sake, fruity sake, strong sake, fizzy cloudy sake … I had no idea what the alcohol content was and thought I might leave a leeeeetle sozzled. However, the tastings are shot sized so you’ll still have your legs afterwards. You also get a little sake glass to take home as a souvenir.

Stop 9: Naramachi Streets

Distance:  Walk 2km from Harushika Sake Brewery to Nara Station, via the backstreets of Naramchi.

So sake tasting turned out to be the most excellent idea of my day trip to Nara. I had a sake-spring in my step, and was ready to get back on those legs. If you’ve really had it, jump in a taxi back to the train station.

If you can push on, walk back to the train station via the historic streets of Naramachi . The Naramachi streets are filled with shops, galleries and eateries, and you can visit the traditional wooden houses.

After Naramichi, finish your day by heading back to the train station or to your local hotel. That’s it – you’ve pretty much covered the highlights of Nara on foot in less than one day. Whoop whoop to that!

Other Japan Day Trips In Kansai 

It’s definitely worth spending a few days in the Kansai region with either Osaka or Kyoto as a base. I traveled to Nara from Osaka after equally full days exploring Osaka and Hiroshima on foot – no wonder my feet were aching!

Read More: Check out my favorite things to do in Kyoto .

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14 comments.

What a great guide, thank you! I’m glad it’s not just me that takes the wrong turn on hikes! Im loving your photography – especially the deer selfie!

Ha ha yes I ALWAYS take at least five wrong turns, both when hiking and when I’m the ‘navigator’ on a road trip! Good thing I like getting some extra kms in…

This post made me so happy. I lived in Nara for a few years, so it’s nice to see it’s still gorgeous!! I’m glad you liked it!!

The only place I might add is the roof of the prefectural building (on the way to Todaiji) as you get such good views from up there.

It’s a shame you didn’t pop into either of the gardens, as they are lovely…

Great tips from an old local! I’ll add the prefectural building for next time. I went into Yoshiki-en Gardens which were small and pretty, but decided to give Isuien a miss this time … all the more reason to go back!

What an incredible tour! The temples are so gorgeous and I love how curious the deer are. They clearly love their deer biscuits haha!

OMG the deer are so cute!!

Omg I had no idea about Nara and I would be sold too if I heard about the free roaming deer. And it’s so pretty. Thanks for sharing!

I would LOVE to do this tour! I will bring extra biscuits for all those super cute Nara deer. I have yet to get to Japan but putting this on my list for sure 🙂

I’ve always wanted to visit Nara. I love exploring cities on foot, so I think it would be perfect for me. This is a great walking itinerary!

Thanks! I love exploring on foot too, you get such a good sense of the place and end each day exhausted! I also did a massive amount of walking in Hiroshima, Kyoto and Osaka.

This is such an informative guide! And the deer are adorable! I’d definitely love to give this a try; Japan is top of my travel list, so hopefully I’ll be able to report back soon!

Thanks! The gorgeous deer were definitely a highlight – so cute and a little cheeky! Japan’s a wonderful country, you should definitely visit.

This is such a great guide! I never realised that it was quite so close to the cities. Always thought it was out of the way a bit, mind you I didnt do a whole lot of research lol

That’s one of the great things about Nara – it’s super easy to get to Nara from both Kyoto and Osaka. I actually would have loved to spend a night or two in Nara itself because it is such a pretty little city.

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A Captivating Nara Day Trip from Osaka or Kyoto: Nara Travel Guide

Last updated on April 9th, 2024 at 03:38 am

Nestled in the heart of Japan, the ancient city of Nara beckons with its rich history, cultural heritage, and adorable deer population. A short day trip from Osaka, Nara offers a captivating escape to a bygone era where traditional temples, serene gardens, and friendly deer await. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the highlights of a Nara day trip, showcasing why this enchanting city is a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Osaka.

Nara Travel Guide

How to get to nara:.

From Osaka, Nara is easily accessible by train, making it a convenient day trip. Hop on the JR Yamatoji Line from Osaka Station or the Kintetsu Nara Line from Namba Station, and within approximately an hour, you’ll find yourself in the historic city of Nara.

From Kyoto Station, the journey takes around 35-45 minutes. Trains are available on the JR Nara Line, and you can purchase tickets at the station’s ticket counters or automated machines.

Nara Park – A Deer Paradise

Upon arrival in Nara, head straight to Nara Park, a vast green expanse where friendly Sika deer roam freely. These gentle creatures are considered sacred and are well-known for bowing to visitors in exchange for deer crackers, which are available for purchase in the park.

Nara Park is a renowned park in Nara, Japan, famous for its friendly deer population and cultural landmarks. Here’s a concise summary:

• The park is home to over 1,000 freely-roaming deer, considered sacred and protected.
• It features iconic cultural sites like Todaiji Temple, housing the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue.
• Kasuga Taisha Shrine, known for its thousands of stone lanterns, is also within the park.
• Nara Park’s natural beauty, with lush greenery and ponds, provides a serene environment.
• The park is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Visitors can interact with the deer and enjoy feeding them, creating unique and memorable experiences.

Todaiji Temple – An Architectural Marvel

A short walk from Nara Park leads you to Todaiji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the Great Buddha (Daibutsu). Marvel at the colossal bronze Buddha statue, the largest of its kind in Japan, housed in a grand wooden structure that is awe-inspiring in its own right.

• Great Buddha Hall: The temple is renowned for its colossal wooden structure known as the “Great Buddha Hall” or “Daibutsuden.” It is one of the largest wooden buildings in the world.
• Great Buddha Statue: Inside the Great Buddha Hall, there is a massive bronze statue of Buddha, known as “Daibutsu.” It stands at approximately 15 meters (49 feet) in height, making it one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in Japan.
• History: Todaiji Temple was founded in 752 during the Nara period as the head temple of all provincial Buddhist temples in Japan.
• Annual Events: Todaiji Temple hosts several important events throughout the year, including the Omizutori ceremony, held in March, where water is collected from a sacred well to pray for safety and good health.

Todaiji Temple remains a remarkable example of Japanese Buddhist architecture and is a must-visit destination for tourists interested in experiencing Japan’s rich cultural and religious heritage.

Kasuga Taisha Shrine – A Path of Lanterns

Next, venture to Kasuga Taisha Shrine, a beautiful Shinto shrine known for its hundreds of stone and bronze lanterns lining the path leading to the main hall. The shrine’s vermilion structures amidst a serene forest create a picture-perfect scene.

Kasuga Taisha Shrine holds significant historical and cultural importance, dating back to the 8th century. It is dedicated to multiple deities, including the Kasuga deity and ancestral spirits. The shrine is also known for its biannual festivals called Kasuga Wakamiya On-Matsuri, held in February and December. These festivals feature traditional performances and processions. Kasuga Taisha Shrine continues to be an essential pilgrimage site and a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1998.

Isuien Garden – Serenity and Beauty

For a moment of tranquility, visit Isuien Garden, a traditional Japanese garden that showcases the harmonious coexistence of nature and art. Stroll along its meticulously designed landscape, featuring ponds, streams, and seasonal flora.

Kofukuji Temple – An Ancient Legacy

Make your way to Kofukuji Temple, a significant Buddhist temple that once served as the powerful Fujiwara clan’s family temple. Admire the iconic five-storied pagoda, an emblem of Nara’s rich history.

Naramachi – Traditional Townscape

Take a detour to Naramachi, a well-preserved historical district that showcases traditional machiya townhouses. Wander through narrow alleys and quaint streets, discovering shops, cafes, and galleries that add to the area’s nostalgic charm.

Indulge in Local Cuisine During Your Nara Day Trip

No trip is complete without sampling local delicacies. This ancient city is known for its unique dishes that have been passed down through generations. Nara offers an array of treats providing a delightful taste of the region’s culinary heritage

• Kakinoha Sushi: One of Nara’s signature dishes is Kakinoha Sushi, also known as persimmon leaf sushi. This traditional treat features sushi rice topped with fresh fish and wrapped in a persimmon leaf, which imparts a subtle, sweet flavor to the rice. It’s a delightful blend of textures and tastes, giving you a true taste of Nara’s culinary heritage.
• Kudzu Cuisine: Nara’s cuisine heavily features kudzu, a plant known for its medicinal properties and thickening qualities. Kudzu dishes, such as kuzumochi (kudzu starch cake) and kudzu tempura, are popular choices. Don’t miss the chance to try this unique ingredient and savor the earthy, slightly sweet notes it brings to the dishes.
• Somen Noodles: During the hot summer months, cool down with somen noodles, a refreshing and light dish made from thin wheat noodles served in ice-cold water. Dip the noodles in a flavorful sauce and enjoy a delightful burst of flavors. This dish is a favorite among locals and visitors alike during Nara’s warmest days.
• Nara’s Own Pickles: Nara’s pickles, known as Narazuke, are a must-try for any food enthusiast. Made from various vegetables, these pickles are fermented with sake lees, giving them a unique and tangy taste. Narazuke is the perfect accompaniment to rice and is available in a wide range of flavors, making it easy to find one that suits your taste.
• Mochi: Mochi, a traditional Japanese rice cake, holds a special place in Nara’s culinary scene. Try the local specialty, yomogi mochi, which is infused with mugwort and has a delightful green color. Or enjoy a classic plain mochi filled with sweet red bean paste – a delicious treat that will satisfy your sweet cravings.
• Unagi: Unagi, or grilled freshwater eel, is a delicacy in Nara’s cuisine. The tender, flavorful eel is seasoned and grilled to perfection, making it a delectable and satisfying dish. Enjoy it on a bed of rice with a savory sauce for a truly authentic dining experience.

Nara National Museum – Cultural Treasures

If time permits, visit the Nara National Museum, which houses an extensive collection of Buddhist art and cultural treasures from Nara’s illustrious past.

Return to Osaka or Kyoto with Fond Memories

As the day comes to a close, return to Osaka or Kyoto with cherished memories of your Nara adventure. The tranquil beauty, historical landmarks, and heartwarming encounters with the deer will undoubtedly leave you captivated by this ancient city’s timeless allure.

Conclusion of My Nara Travel Guide

A day trip to Nara from Osaka is a delightful journey through history and nature. From the playful deer in Nara Park to the awe-inspiring temples and gardens, the city offers a perfect blend of traditional charm and natural beauty. With its convenient accessibility from Osaka, Nara makes for an unforgettable day trip that will leave you with a profound appreciation for Japan’s cultural heritage and the enchanting wonders of its ancient capital. So, venture beyond Osaka’s borders and embark on a rewarding day trip to Nara for an experience that promises to be truly unforgettable. Japan Travel Guide

Is Nara Near Osaka or Kyoto?

Nara is conveniently located between Osaka and Kyoto, making it easily accessible for day trips from both cities.

Why Do Tourist Visit Nara?

Nara’s allure as a tourist destination lies in its perfect blend of history, culture, nature, and unique experiences. From ancient temples and friendly deer to exquisite gardens and mouthwatering cuisine, Nara offers a well-rounded and unforgettable journey into Japan’s rich heritage and beauty.

Is Nara Worth Visiting?

Nara, Japan, is unquestionably worth visiting. Its historical significance, cultural treasures, friendly deer, stunning gardens, and unique experiences create a captivating destination for travelers. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or foodie, Nara offers a well-rounded and unforgettable travel experience.

Best Time to Visit Nara Japan?

The best time to visit Nara depends on your preferences for weather, seasonal attractions, and crowd levels. For cherry blossoms, visit in spring; for autumn foliage, visit in the fall. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting in winter, while summer offers vibrant festivals and cultural events.

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• Travel tips

Nara Day Trip from Kyoto or Osaka: 1-Day Nara Itinerary

If you have never heard of Nara and wonder what to do in Nara, you are not alone. The first time I knew of the city is from Instagram photos and videos of the wild deers in Nara bowing to people. How cute!

After a bit of research, I’m blown away by the number of things to see in Nara. The city was Japan’s capital city in 710. Many Buddhist monasteries and temples were built, which is why the city has some of Japan’s oldest and largest shrines and temples . Today, many of them are designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites .

Best of all, taking a Nara day trip from Kyoto or Osaka is super easy. All thanks to the efficient train systems where the train ride takes less than an hour from either city.

Keep reading and learn how you can see all the best things to do in Nara in one day and how to travel from Osaka or Kyoto to Nara.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through them, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost. Thank you for supporting this website. For more information, please read the  disclosure for more info.

Nara day trip from Osaka and Kyoto: What you need to know

Before you take a day trip to Nara from Kyoto or Osaka, take a look at my post on everything you need to know before going to Japan . I included a lot of information, including how to get around and other Japan travel tips.

Here are some additional travel tips that you may find useful for spending a day in Nara:

• Arrive in Nara by 9am so you can comfortably see all the best attractions in this day trip itinerary.
• Nara is a safe city   for solo female travellers .
• The best way to see Nara is on foot. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes.
• Carry cash with you, as many eateries accept cash only.
• ICOCA is the prepaid IC card for Kansai Region. It is a rechargeable smartcard where you can take public transportation, including bus, train, etc. It is useful to have especially if you are taking the train from Kyoto to Nara or Osaka to Nara.
• Omizutori (March 1-14) – the oldest annual Buddhist event (over 1250 years) held at Nigatsudo Hall where giant torches are carried up to the balcony and the burning embers that fall from the torches will bless the onlookers with a safe year ahead.
• Cherry blossom viewing (late March to early April) – Nara Park and Saho-gawa River.
• Himuro Shirayuki Matsuri (first weekend in May) – snow festival at Himuro Shrine where the special event is dedicated to the deity of ice. 
• Meet Baby Deer (June) – see little fawns at Rokuen in Kasuga Taisha Precincts.
• Uneme Festival (mid Autumn) – see a procession of people in ancient clothing with ceremonial flower fan in the kangensen boat ritual at Sarusawa-ike Pond.
• Kasuga Wakamiya Onmatsuri (December 15-18) – the annual festival for locals praying for bountiful harvests parades through Nara City and Kasuga Taisha.

How to travel from Kyoto to Nara

Taking a Kyoto to Nara day trip is super easy. Nara has two train stations serviced by two different railways: Japan Railway arrives at JR Nara Station , and Kintetsu Railway arrives at Kintetsu-Nara Station .

Both train stations are within walking distance of the Nara downtown area . The only difference is the trip duration and the cost. Check Hyperdia for train schedules and fares for both railways .

Japan Railways

• Kyoto Station to Nara Station (on JR Nara Line ) – 46 minutes, ¥720 (covered by JR Pass)

Kintetsu Railway

• Kyoto Station to Kintetsu-Nara Station (on Kintetsu-Kyoto Line ) – 46 minutes, ¥640

How to travel from Osaka to Nara

Similarly, taking a Osaka to Nara day trip is pretty simple as well. Day-trippers from Osaka can take either railway. Take the Kintetsu Railway as it is a direct train and is cheaper . Unless you have a JR Pass, then take Japan Railways.

• Namba (Nankai) Station to Nara Station (on JR Yamatoji Line , transfer at Shin-Imamiya Station ) – 51 minutes, ¥730 (covered by JR Pass)
• Osaka Namba Station to Kintetsu-Nara Station (on Kintetsu-Nara Line ) – 36 minutes, ¥570

Nara Day Trip Itinerary Map

There are many things to do in Nara that it could take a couple of days to see everything. But if you are only spending one day in Nara, it is possible to see all the best highlights in the quaint town.

I pinned all the top things to do in Nara on the interactive map below.  Red numbered pins are all the must-see Nara attractions   during the day trip , and  blue pins are other things to do in   Nara  if you are staying longer, and  green pins are day trip ideas from Nara and yellow pins are Nara accommodations .

Nara day trip from Kyoto or Osaka: Best Things to Do in One Day

1. sanjodori street.

Whether you arrive at Nara Station or Kintetsu-Nara Station, walk towards the centre of the city by walking across Sanjodori Street . This is the main avenue that cut across the centre from east to west.

And on the way, stop by Nakatanidou , a famous Japanese dessert place for making yomogi mochi . They have a live mochi making demonstration that is active and entertaining. The manual pounding of the mochi creates a softly textured mochi.

2-5. Kōfuku-ji Temple Complex

The first attraction on your Nara itinerary is Kōfuku-ji Temple , one of Japan’s oldest Buddhist temples.

At its peak, the Kōfuku-ji had up to 175 buildings. Today, only a handful of buildings are left and some are designated as UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can visit each of the seven buildings (some require a small fee) and appreciate the architecture of each of these Buddhist temples.

If you have to pick and choose which ones to see, look for:

• Nanen-do (Southern Round Hall) – see the three-eyed, eight-armed image of Fukukensaku Kannon in the octagonal hall that wa built initially as a memorial chapel.
• Kōfuku-ji Chukondo (Central Golden Hall) – Kōfuku-ji main temple hall was burnt and rebuilt several times. Today, you can see several gilded Buddhist icons and large portraits of the patriarchs of the Hosso School of Buddhism.
• Eastern Golden Hall – houses a large statue of Yakushi Nyorai aka the Medicine Buddha and other wooden images. (currently under renovation)
• Kofuku-ji Gojunoto (Five Story Pagoda) – the second tallest wooden pagoda in Japan. (currently under renovation)

Address: 48 Noboriojicho, Nara City | Hours: 9am-5pm | Admission: ¥500 for Kōfuku-ji Chukondo

6 & 7. Tōdai-ji Temple: Nandaimon Gate and Daibutsu-den

Next, visit Tōdai- ji Temple , one of Japan’s most important Buddhist temples and an UNESCO World Heritage Site.

First, you’ll have to walk through Nandaimon Gate (Great South Gate) , the largest temple entrance gate in Japan. Standing at 25.46m above the stone plinth, the giant entrance gate also houses the statues of guardian dieties.

Then continue on the path and enter Daibutsu-den (Hall of the Great Buddha) . Standing 48m tall, the temple is made entirely of wood and is the world’s largest wooden building. Walk around the perimeter of Daibutsu (Buddha statue) , the largest bronze statue in Japan, and see other statues within the wooden temple.

Address: 406-1 Zoshicho, Nara City | Hours: 7:30am-5:30pm | Admission: ¥600

8-10. Tōdai-ji Temple Complex

There are many buildings that make up the Tōdai-ji Temple complex. When you leave Daibutsu-den, walk towards the eastern hills and see these attractions in this order. It will take you in a loop and return back to Daibutsu-den.

• Todai-ji Hokkedo (Sangatsudo, March Hall) – see the statue of Fukukensaku Kannon, other statues and worship hall in the oldest structure in Todai-ji.
• Todai-ji Nigatsudo (February Hall) – a UNESCO building perched on a hill and the best spot to see a view of Nara City. This is where Omizutori, the oldest annual Buddhist event, is held.
• Todai-ji Shoro (Bell Tower ) – see the 26.3 ton bell, one of the three famous bells of Japan.

Address: Tōdai-ji, Nara City | Hours: 24hours | Admission: ¥600 for Todai-ji Hokkedo

11. Nara Park

Most visitors (like me) travel to Nara because they want to see wild deer. And there are hundreds of deers are roaming around Nara Park or in the streets as they are free to roam.

If you want a close-up encounter with wild deer, you can buy some crackers and feed the deer. The best part is they will bow when you offer the treat. So adorable!

Just make sure to be gentle when you feed the deer. Many signs in Nara Park tell visitors that the deer will bite and kick. If you are nice to the deer, they will behave.

12 & 13. Kasuga Taisha Shrine and Manyo Botanical Gardens

As one of Nara’s most important Shinto shrines, Kasuga Taisha Shrine is known for its numerous suspended bronze lanterns at the Main Sanctuary and mossy stone lanterns on the main path . Plus, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The shrine was founded in 786 and has been rebuilt over time. As you wander around the shrine complex, see many bright vermillion-coloured buildings , giant Japanese cedar tree that is over 1,000 years old, all the deities enshrined at Kasuga Taisha , and Kasuga-Man-Tourou-View , a dim room with lit lanterns.

And if you are in Nara during Spring, see wonderful wisteria in full bloom in Manyou Botanical Garden . Definitely Instagram-worthy!

Address: 160 Kasuganocho, Nara City | Hours: 6:30am-5:30pm | Admission: ¥500 for the Main Sanctuary and ¥500 for Manyou Botanical Garden

14-17. Naramachi Historic District

And finally, take a stroll through the small streets of Naramachi Historic District . This is the part of town that has many local shops, restaurants, cafes, and residential homes . Many buildings were built in the late 18th to 19th century and are Registered Cultural Property , which gives Naramachi it’s unique look and feel.

There are many things to see in Naramachi, but if you are short on time, here is a short list:

• Gango-ji Temple (9am-5pm; ¥500) – the first Buddhist temple in Japan, a UNESCO site and a designated National Treasure. It was relocated to Nara when the city became the new capital.
• Goryo Shrine (8am-4:30pm; free) – a shrine founded during the Enryaku Era (around 800 AD).
• Naramachi Koshi-no-le (Lattice House)  (9am-5pm; free) – tour inside a machiya , an old urban townhouse that is both a home and workplace for local merchants.

18. Higashimuki Shopping Street

After a full day of temples, shrines, and deers, stop by Higashimuki Shopping Street , a covered shopping arcade with many souvenir shops, restaurants and cafes . You can find local treats here and pick up some delicious food souvenirs before returning to Kyoto or Osaka.

If you like, you can have dinner around this area before heading home.

When you are ready to finish your day trip in Nara, walk to either train station (not far away) and make your way home. Trains from Nara to Kyoto and Osaka run until midnight, and the journey to both cities takes about an hour.

Other things to do for your Nara day trip itinerary

There are so many things to do in Nara that choosing what to do in just one day is difficult. But if you are staying longer or want to change up the 1-day Nara itinerary, here are some suggestions:

• Isuien Garden and Neiraku Museum (9:30am-4:30pm; closed Tuesdays; ¥650) – see Edo Period inspired Japanese garden in the front and the back garden that was designed in the Meiji Era. Also see the 2,000 plus items that survived the 1945 Kobe air raid in the museum.
• Nara National Museum (9:30am-5pm; closed Mondays; ¥700) – see the permanent collection of Buddhist art which includes artworks, hand-scroll paintings, sculptures, and other art related to the teachings of Buddhism.
• Nara Prefectural Museum of Art  (9am-5pm; closed Mondays; ¥400) – see over 4,100 pieces of artwork by artists who worked in Nara Prefecture.
• Mount Wakakusa – hike 350m and see wild deers, sunset and an unobstructed view of Nara. During spring, it is the best place to see cherry blossom.
• Mount Kasuga Primeval Forest  – hike 9.4km trail in the sacred mountain behind Kasuga Taisha Shrine and see over 175 types of trees, waterfall, caves and wild life. The forest is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If you are spending more than 1 day in Nara

If you spend more than one day in Nara and want to venture out to see and see other places in Nara Prefecture, check out Yamanobe-no-Michi Trail  or Mount Yoshino .

1. Yamanobe-no-Michi Trail

Yamanobe-no-Michi Trail  is an ancient road in Nara Prefecture and it is also Japan’s oldest mountain trail. The 11km hiking trail starts from Omiwa Shrine in Sakurai City and ends at Isonokami Shrine in Tenri City .

When you hike the 1,000-year-old trail, you can see historic temples and ancient tombs through present-day farmland and quaint towns. Plus, you can try somen noodles in Miwa and tenri ramen in Tenri.

How to get to Yamanobe-no-Michi Trail: hop on Japan Railways at JR   Nara Station on the Sakurai Line  and go to Miwa Station (27 minutes; ¥330). Then follow the signs for the trail.

2. Mount Yoshino

If you are in the Kansai region from late March to mid-April, definitely make your way to Mount Yoshino , one of Japan’s most famous cherry blossom viewing spots . There are over 30,000 cherry trees in the mountain range!

But even if you are not there during peak season, you can still visit the quaint towns and hike the trails.

How to get to Mount Yoshino: Take the Kintetsu Railway from Kintetsu-Nara Station to Yamato-Saidaiji Station . Then, transfer trains and take it to Kashiharajingu-Mae Station , transfer again and take the train to Yoshino Station (1 hour 23 minutes;¥1,030). Once there, take the  Yoshino Ropeway and follow the signs.

Where to stay in Nara as a solo traveller

Nara is a small city but is very charming. It would be lovely to stay overnight if you have the opportunity or if you want to hike Yamanobe-no-Michi Trail or Mount Yoshino.

If you want to spend more than one day in Nara, consider one of the accommodations below:

• Iroha Grand Hotel Kintetsu Nara Ekimae   ($) – I really enjoyed staying at this new hotel in Nara. The room is clean and comfortable. And it is very central to many things in the city.
• Miroku Nara by The Share Hotels ($$) – I also really like this hotel because of the modern guest room and the overall design aesthetics. It’s a bit tucked away but still pretty central to most places in Nara.

What to eat in Nara Japan

During your day in Nara, you can smaple many of these yummy Nara famous food for lunch and dinner. Many restaurants open during lunch hour and a few are open near the central part of the city.

• Kakinoha-zushi – a type of sushi native to Nara, where mackerel fish sushi is wrapped in a persimmon leaf
• Chagayu – roasted green tea rice porridge
• Narazuke – pickled vegetables like daikon radish, cucumber pickled in sake, gourd, etc.
• Somen noodle – wheat flour, hand-stretched noodles served in ice water and eaten with dashi soy sauce
• Yomogi mochi – a glutinous rice ball with red bean and covered with soybean powder

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Looking for tours around Nara? Check out these experiences:

Is it better to go to nara from osaka or kyoto.

Honestly, it really depends on your own travel itinerary because the travel time between Nara and Kyoto and Osaka is relatively the same. The efficient train systems can take you to Nara easily from either city. So it depends if you have an extra day in Osaka or Kyoto.

But either way, I would definitely include a day trip to Nara from either city. There is so much to see in Nara but if you only have one day, follow my efficient itinerary so you can make the most of your Nara day trip.

Let me know in the comments below if you have tried my Nara itinerary or have any suggestions to make it better.

Thank you for reading my Nara day trip itinerary

You might also like these other posts on solo travel in Japan:

Introduction to Japan

• Solo Travel to Japan: 17 best cities for solo travellers
• Things I wish I knew before going to Japan
• 11 Off-the-beaten-path places in Japan
• Japanese Food Culture: 11 must-try food
• One month in Japan: from Tokyo to Hiroshima

Kansai region

• Nara famous food: Where and What to Eat
• Hike Yamanobe-no-Michi Trail in Nara Prefecture
• Kyoto 2-day itinerary
• Where to stay in Kyoto: Best Areas & Hotel Reviews
• Kyoto Food Guide: What and Where to Eat
• Kurama to Kibune hiking itinerary
• Uji day trip from Kyoto
• 2-day Osaka itinerary
• Where to stay in Osaka for first time traveller
• Where and What to Eat in Osaka, Japan
• Minoh Waterfalls Trail: easy day hike from Osaka
• Osaka to Kobe day trip: 1-day itinerary
• Best food in Kobe: Where and What to Eat
• Arima Onsen day trip itinerary
• Himeji day trip from Osaka

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queenie mak

Hi, my name is Queenie, and I've been a solo traveller for 20+ years and currently based in Hong Kong. Follow me on my adventures through Instagram and my blog!

Further Reading...

Tokyo Food Guide: Where and What to Eat in Tokyo, Japan

Japanese Food Culture: 11 Must Try Food in Japan

Osaka to Kobe Day Trip: Best Things to Do in Kobe in One Day

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Kyoto Solo Travel Guide: 2-Day Kyoto Itinerary & How to Get Around

Best kyoto food: where and what to eat in kyoto japan, ms travel solo.

The beautiful city of Nara is well worth exploring over the course of a day. Small enough to explore on foot, a Nara day trip is easily possible from either Kyoto or Osaka. Follow our Nara itinerary and discover the very best of this magical city. 

Once the capital of  Japan , Nara is synonymous with the adorable free-roaming deer that fill Nara Park. Yet the city is just as famous for its plethora of UNESCO World Heritage Sites made up of countless historic temples and shrines.

Alongside these are a number of gorgeous Japanese gardens, world-class museums, as well as exceptional views from the top of Mount Wakakusayama . You certainly won’t be short on ideas for things to add to your Nara itinerary.

One Day in Nara - Table of Contents

How to get to nara.

By far the easiest places from which to visit Nara are either Kyoto or Osaka .

Nara has two mainline train stations,  JR Nara Station  and  Kintetsu Nara Station .

Kintetsu Nara Station is served by the Kintetsu-Nara Line . Kintetsu Nara station is a little closer to Nara Park than the JR Nara station.

However, the Kintetsu-Nara Line is a private train line and not a JR Line station, so you cannot use the Japan Rail Pass to reach this station.

How to Get to Nara from Kyoto

If you’re planning on visiting Nara on a day trip from Kyoto , then you can take a direct train to either of the city’s two stations.

• Trains on the JR Nara Line take 45 minutes on the rapid service or about 75 minutes on a local train service to reach Nara JR Station from Kyoto Station.
• Trains on the Kintetsu Line take between 35-50 minutes to get from Kyoto to Nara depending on the service.

Along with the five storied pagoda, two of the temple’s halls, the  Eastern Golden Hall and the  North Octagonal Hall , have been declared as  National Treasures of Japan .

The most important building in the  Kofuku-ji  complex is the Central Golden Hall . Completely restored and reopened in 2018, the Central Golden Hall houses a collection of sacred Buddhist icons that have also been awarded National Treasure status.

Next to the Central Golden Hall is the  Kofuku-ji National Treasure Museum , which displays a fantastic collection of Buddhist art, including one of the most important Buddhist statues in Japan, the three-headed and six-armed  Ashura Statue .

• 9.00am - 5.00pm
• Central Hall: ¥500 / National Treasure Hall: ¥700 / Eastern Hall ¥300 / Combined ticket : ¥900

Meet Nara’s Famous Free-Roaming Deer

From Kofuku-ji Temple continue east, past the five storied pagoda further into Nara Park .

It’s at this point that you’ll have your first of many encounters with some of Nara’s 1300 tame sika deer . Considered to be sacred Shinto messengers , one of the best things to do in Nara is to feed the city’s free roaming deer.

Nara Park’s famous deer

Y ou could easily spend the majority of your Nara day trip amongst the park’s lovable deer. Officially designated as National Treasures ,  killing one of Nara’s deer was once punishable by death. 

Dotted around Nara Park are stalls where you can buy crackers – called “ shika senbei ” in Japanese – to feed the deer, who all seem to have an unrelenting appetite. A pack of deer crackers costs ¥200. 

The deer at Nara Park are always ready for their next meal

Once you’ve bought a pack the trick is to be as discreet as possible. Try and hide the crackers in a bag or a secure pocket and take one out at a time.

Most of the deer have learned to bow their heads as if to politely ask for food, but if they spot a whole pack in your hand manners quickly go out of the window and you’ll find yourself circled by hungry deer. 

Needless to say, don’t feed the deer with anything other than crackers , and be sure to keep hold of any litter until you can dispose of it properly. It was recently reported that a number of Nara’s deer have died from eating plastic left by tourists .

The Nara National Museum

Looking slightly out of place amongst the typically Japanese temples is the Nara National Museum . More like a European Palace than something you’d expect to see in Japan, the museum holds  a huge collection of Buddhist art donated by the temples of Nara.

Two newer buildings, the east and west wings of the museum, are connected to the original building by an underground corridor. These wings host temporary exhibitions to accompany the main building’s enormous permanent collection .

• Nara National Museum
• 9.30am - 5.00pm
• Todai-ji Temple

Next, walk through the park and pass through the imposing Nandaimon Gate of Tōdaiji . Stop to admire the two huge guardians that stand either side of the gate’s entrance, before continuing on to the main Todai-ji Temple complex.  

A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most sacred sites in Japan,  Todai-ji Temple  was built in 752. The main attraction of Todai-ji is the enormous main hall called Daibutsuden , or the Big Buddha Hall.

The current Daibutsuden was built in 1692, and despite being smaller than the original was still the largest wooden building in the world until as recently as 1998.

The Daibutseden houses the  Daibutsu , the largest bronze statue of Buddha in the world. Almost 15 metres tall the statue also weighs an incredible 500 tonnes.

At the base of one of the temple’s pillars is a small square hole known as the  Buddha’s Nostril . It is said that  if you can squeeze through the hole  then enlightenment will be granted to you in the next life.

• 7.30am - 5.30pm

Lunch at Kitahara Soba

After Todai-ji it’s time for lunch. Nara is an excellent place to eat, and there are plenty of good options in and around Nara Park. One of the best is Kitahara Soba , just a five minute walk from Todai-ji Temple.

Kitahara Soba is a small and homely restaurant with a wonderful atmosphere. As the name suggests, Kitahara Soba specialises in delicious and reasonably priced hot and cold soba noodle dishes . If there’s a queue when you arrive  it’s well worth waiting for a free table . 

• Kitahara Soba
• 11.00am - 4.00pm - closed Tuesdays
• Location map

Stroll Around Isuien and Yoshikien Gardens

Just two minutes from Kitahara Soba are two of the finest Japanese gardens in Nara. Isuien Garden and Yoshikien Garden sit side by side, with Todai-ji Temple visible in the background. 

Both gardens are beautifully manicured and maintained and a wonderful haven in the middle of Nara.

Isuien Garden  consists of  a front and back garden . The smaller front garden is dominated by a large pond. 

Overlooking the pond is the  Restaurant Sanshu , housed inside an original 17 th century tea house , which serves traditional meals and green tea. 

The back garden features a larger lake with stepping stones leading through to secluded spots and, at the far end of the garden, a red Inari Shrine. 

In front of the entrance to the garden is a small art gallery featuring precious antique artworks from all over Asia, some of which are over 3000 years old.

The Isuien Garden

The neighbouring Yoshikien Garden is larger and free to enter for overseas visitors. Yoshikien consists of three distinct gardens that sit side by side. 

A beautiful large house overlooks the Pond Garden’s sloped and colourful landscape. The Moss Garden gets its name from the lawn of thick moss that sits in front of a typical tea house. The Tea Ceremony Garden at the rear of the Yoshikien is a wonderfully tranquil place to sit and relax.   

• Isuien Garden
• 9.30am - 4.30pm
• Yoshikien Garden
• ¥250 / free to international tourists (need to show ID)

See the Lanterns at Kasuga Taisha

Next, return back into Nara Park and walk along the lantern-lined path to Kasuga Taisha , the most sacred shrine in Nara. 

Dating from the 8 th century,  Kasuga Taisha  is the shrine for the Fujiwara family, one of the most powerful families in Japan during Nara’s time as capital of Japan. 

Also enshrined here are a number of deities, including Takemikazuchi , who is said to protect the city of Nara.

Bursting with bright vermillion and nestled beneath the Kasuga Primeval Forest, Kasuga Taisha is another large temple complex, featuring a number of important halls and shrines. 

At the heart of the complex is an inner sanctuary , which is famous for the gold and bronze lanterns that hang from the shrine’s buildings. Donated by worshippers the lanterns are only lit twice a year during the Mandoro festival.

• Kasuga Taisha
• Temple complex: 6.30am - 5.00pm | Inner sanctuary: 8.30am - 4.00pm
• ¥500 for the inner sanctuary

Watch the Sunset from Mount Wakakusayama

If there’s still time in the day, or if you’re staying in town overnight, end your Nara day trip with a walk to the summit of Mount Wakakusayama , from where there are sublime views over the whole city.

Two different walking paths lead to Mount Wakakusayama, and you won’t need to climb right to the top for a wonderful view of Nara .

Though it’s a steep climb, the mountain is covered in grass, and a number of stairways and manageable paths lead to the top. For the most amazing views, try to arrive in the late afternoon and with a bit of luck there’ll be the backdrop of a spectacular sunset. There’ll be no better way to end your Nara day trip.

• Mount Wakakusayama
• Access from 9.00am - 5.00pm, closed from mid December to March

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Nara Day Trip Itinerary from Osaka or Kyoto

• Post author By Project Gora
• Post date January 28, 2024
• 2 Comments on Nara Day Trip Itinerary from Osaka or Kyoto

If you’re seeking a Nara day trip itinerary from Osaka or Kyoto, you’ve found the right spot!

Japan is a destination I could return to every year and never get sick of it. With Mt. Fuji, beautiful parks, unique theme parks, delicious cuisine, and more, it’s a country that never fails to impress. That’s without even taking into account the locals’ exquisite politeness and hospitality. If you’re a first-time traveler, planning your trip might seem overwhelming. To help you, let’s delve into one of my top picks in Japan – Nara!

Table of Contents

Nara, the Ancient Capital of Japan

Nara deer park, todaiji temple, kofukuji temple, nakatanidou mochi shop, nara day trip: how to get to nara from osaka or kyoto, nara bus pass, kintetsu rail pass, kansai railway pass, where to stay in nara, nara guided tour from osaka or kyoto.

Nara is the ancient capital of Japan from the year 710 to 794 AD. Next only to Kyoto for having the most number of ancient historical treasures, Nara is also home to hundreds of wild deer roaming freely in the city. If you are planning a day trip in this city from either Osaka or Kyoto, then you would not be disappointed. 

Top Tourist Attractions in Nara

This park is probably the number one reason why visitors want to go to Nara. Home to hundreds of deer roaming freely around the city, Nara Deer Park holds a sacred status. According to local folklore, the wild deer were messengers of the gods.

If you’re traveling in December, then you are lucky to witness the winter activity known as Shikayose . Held at around 10:00 AM, a French horn player summons the wild deer to be fed with acorns. Hundreds of wild deer gather around the man waiting to be fed. We weren’t able to see but I bet this would really be an amazing sight!

When feeding the deer in Nara, it’s important to follow proper etiquette to ensure a positive experience for both visitors and deer. Remember to purchase deer crackers sold by local vendors to feed the deer, as they are used to this and it’s part of their diet. Approach the deer calmly and avoid sudden movements to prevent startling them. Keep a safe distance from the deer and avoid feeding them outside designated areas to maintain their well-being and prevent aggressive behavior.

One major attraction in Nara is Todaiji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located near Nara Park. It boasts the world’s largest wooden building until 1998 and houses the largest bronze Buddha statue, Daibutsu. Don’t miss the impressive Nandaimon, dating back to the 13th century and guarded by two massive statues.

Kofukuji Temple, one of Nara’s “Big Three” alongside Todaiji Temple and Horyuji Temple, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once a family temple of the powerful Fujiwara clan, it is a head temple of the Hosso Buddhist Sect. The temple houses the second largest wooden pagoda in Japan, along with the Central and Eastern Golden Halls and the National Treasure Museum.

For a unique culinary experience, visit Nakatanidou! Owner Mitsuo Nakatani, a master of the mochitsuki pounding method for 25 years, creates delicious yomogi mochi from sticky rice. The process is both unique and adds to the overall experience of enjoying this delectable treat.

These Mochi were made with Japanese mugwort (gives the natural green color), filled with sweet red paste made from azuki beans, and sprinkled with roasted and sweetened soybean flour.

Option # 1 – JR Yamatoji Line from JR Osaka Station

The JR Yamatoji Line Regional Rapid Service from JR Osaka Station has direct trips to JR Nara Station in under 60 minutes for only 800 yen (covered by JR Pass ). There are also JR Yamatoji Rapid trains with stops at either Tennoji or Shin-Imamiya going to JR Nara Station in about 70 minutes for only 800 yen (also covered by JR Pass).

*Please note JR Osaka Station is different from the Shin-Osaka Station. The former is one of the stops of Osaka Loop Line while the latter is a bullet train (shinkansen) stop.

Option # 2 – Kintetsu Railways from Osaka-Namba Station

If you are staying near the Osaka-Namba Station, then there are direct trains going to Kintetsu Nara Station. Travel time is about 39 minutes and one-way train fare is 560 yen. There are also direct trains from JR Namba Station going to Kintetsu Nara Station. Travel time is 44 minutes and one-way train fare is 560 yen (covered by Kintetsu Rail Pass ).

Option # 3 – JR Miyakoji Line from Kyoto Station

If you choose Kyoto as your base in the Kansai region, then you may take a direct train from Kyoto Station to JR Nara Station. Travel time is about 71 minutes and one-way train fare is 710 yen (covered by JR Pass ).

Option # 4 – Kintetsu Railways from Kyoto Station

You may also take direct Kintetsu Ltd. Exp. From Kyoto Station to Kintetsu Nara Station. Travel time is approximately 35 minutes and one-way train fare is 1,130 yen (covered by Kintetsu Rail Pass ). 

Nara Day Trip: How to get around Nara

Nara is a compact city which can be easily explored on foot or by bicycle. If you want to save time or if you are on a day-trip, you may get around easily using the city’s public transportation system.

Nara Kotsu buses take you to Nara’s major sightseeing locations. To save money, you may purchase a 1-day Nara Bus Pass (JPY 600), which provides unlimited use of Nara Kotsu Buses around Nara. You may also get the 1-day Nara Bus Pass Wide (JPY 1,100) if you plan to include Horyuji Temple and its surrounding area in your itinerary.

Where to purchase Nara Bus Pass: JR Nara Bus Information Center, Kintetsu Nara Bus Information Center and the Kansai Tourist Information Center at Kansai International Airport

If you don’t have a JR Pass, one of the budget-friendly options is the 1-day (JPY 1,500) or 2-day (JPY 2,500) Kintetsu Rail Pass . This pass provides unlimited use of Kintetsu trains between Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara. It also provides unlimited use of Nara Kotsu Buses around Nara including the Horyuji area.

Where to purchase Kintetsu Rail Pass: Third party tour providers like Klook, BicCamera Namba Store, Kyoto Station and the Kansai Tourist Information Center at Kansai International Airport, Osaka-Namba Station, and many more!

If you’re planning to explore other cities like Kyoto and Kobe, the Kansai Railway Pass (formerly known as Kansai Thru Pass ) is a great option to consider. It offers unlimited train and bus rides between cities, and it also covers most city buses and subways within the cities. Kansai Railway Pass is similar to the JR West Kansai Pass ; However, I think the Kansai Thru Pass offers better value overall due to its extensive coverage of the region’s most popular cities.

Where to purchase Kansai Railway Pass: Third party tour providers like Klook, BicCamera Namba Store, Kyoto Station Bus Information Center and the Kansai Tourist Information Center at Kansai International Airport, Tourist Information Namba, and many more!

While most tourists, my friends and I included, made a day trip to Nara from Osaka or Kyoto, staying overnight is the best way to explore all of Nara’s major attractions. The city is quite big. I did not realize that a day trip wasn’t enough until I got there myself. There are so much to see and do that a day trip barely scratched the surface. If I ever find myself in the Kansai area again, I would definitely stay overnight in Nara! 

Here are some of the best accommodation options in Nara (based on TripAdvisor reviews):

• Asukasou Hotel – located in the heart of Nara town, this hotel offers a comfortable and authentic ryokan experience. It also is conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station, making it easily accessible for travelers.
• Mikasa Ryokan – located just a short 10-minute drive from Kintetsu Nara Train Station, offers a complimentary shuttle service for its guests. This traditional Japanese inn features not one but two artificial spas for guests to unwind in.
• Kasuga Hotel – located just a stone’s throw away from Kintetsu-Nara Station, offering easy access to the city’s major attractions. The hotel boasts a range of amenities such as beautiful public baths and traditional Japanese cuisine.

Travel Tip: Book your activities with Klook and get up to 5% off when you use my code PROJECTGORA .

If you can’t do a day trip from Osaka or Kyoto to Nara on your own, consider taking a guided tour. Guided tours provide a convenient and organized way to explore Nara’s top attractions, learn about its history and culture, and make the most of your visit without the hassle of planning. You can choose from various guided tour options that cater to different interests and preferences.

• Nara Afternoon Tour from Kyoto
• Customized Nara Private Tour from Osaka
• One-day trip to Kyoto & Nara

If you’re planning a 7-day Japan trip , including Osaka, Kyoto and Tokyo, a day trip to Nara is still doable.

Have you visited Nara? Which of the city’s major attractions is your favorite? Let’s chat down below?

By Project Gora

Hey there! My name is Milet Miranda, and I'm a full-time corporate employee during weekdays and a traveler during weekends (and holidays...you get the picture). I'm a foodie at heart and I love joining food tours. When I'm not traveling, you'll find me walking my dogs or biking around my neighborhood.

Comments are closed.

Orientation and Transportation

Getting to nara.

• multiple trains/hour

Multiple Yamatoji rapid trains operate every hour between Osaka (JR Osaka Station) and Nara (JR Nara Station). The one way trip takes 45 minutes, costs 820 yen and is covered by the Japan Rail Pass . The train also stops at Osaka's Tennoji Station (30 minutes, 510 yen one way).

• ¥ 680 - 1,300

By limited express , the one way trip from Osaka-Namba Station to Nara (Kintetsu Nara Station) takes about 30 minutes and costs 1200-1300 yen. By express , it takes just a few minutes longer, but costs only 680 yen. Trains also stop at Tsuruhashi Station on the JR Osaka Loop Line. The Japan Rail Pass is not valid on Kintetsu trains.

Above fees and schedules are subject to change. Be sure to check current yen exchange rates .

Getting around

Nara is served by two railway companies, Kintetsu Railways and JR West. The Kintetsu station is an underground station just a few steps from Kofukuji and Nara Park , while the JR station is a 15-20 minute walk west of Kofukuji and the park. A network of buses , operated by Nara Kotsu, connects the two stations with all sites of interest. All major IC cards are accepted on the trains and buses around Nara, including Suica and Icoca.

Many of Nara's main attractions are found in the centrally located Nara Park and can be visited on foot. The great temples Toshodaiji , Yakushiji and Horyuji , however, stand several kilometers outside of central Nara and are best accessed by bus or train.

Passes and Tickets

The Nara Bus Pass provides unlimited use of Nara Kotsu buses around Nara. It comes as a 1-Day Pass for 500 yen that covers central Nara and the Toshodaiji / Yakushiji area, a 1-Day Pass Wide for 1000 yen that additionally covers the Horyuji area, and a 2-Day Pass for 1500 yen that additionally covers the Asuka area. The pass is on sale at the bus ticket offices across the street from Kintetsu Nara Station and inside JR Nara Station.

A sort of an extension of the Nara Bus Pass' 1-day wide version is the 1-Day and 2-Day Kintetsu Rail Pass , which is available to foreign tourists only. In addition to the buses around Nara (as far as Horyuji ), it also covers unlimited rides on Kintetsu local, rapid and express trains between Osaka , Nara and Kyoto . The 1-day pass costs 1500 yen while the 2-day pass costs 2500 yen.

Questions? Ask in our forum .

Links and Resources

Kintetsu railway, hotels around nara.

Experiences around Nara

• Destinations

Perfect ONE DAY in NARA – 6 Things You Can’t Miss (Maps+Useful Tips)

This site uses affiliate links, meaning that if you make a purchase through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

One of the must-see sights when visiting Japan is Nara, the ancient former capital of Japan. Nara is a perfect day trip and can be easily done from either Kyoto or Osaka.

Follow this perfect one day in Nara itinerary and discover how to get to Nara and what to do and see in this top tourist attraction!

Learn More About Japan: 

Stunning Kasuga Taisha Shrine in Nara (7 Best Things to See)

Amazing 2 Days in Kyoto Itinerary (8 Best Things You Can’t Miss)

Things to Do in Hiroshima (10 Awesome Things to Do on Your First Visit)

14 Best Things to Do in Arashiyama, Kyoto (Map+Useful Tips)

Perfect ONE DAY in KANAZAWA – 7 Things to Do (BEST TRIP from Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka)

• 1. How to Get to Nara from Kyoto
• 2. How to Get to Nara from Osaka
• 3. How to Get from JR Nara Station or Kintetsu Nara Station to Nara Park
• 4. How to Get Around in Nara
• 5. What You Need to Know About Nara Before You Go
• 6. Map of One Day in Nara
• 7. One Day in Nara - 6 Things You Can't Miss
• 7.1. Kofukuji Temple and Five-Story Pagoda
• 7.2. Isuien Garden in Nara
• 7.3. Todaiji Temple in Nara
• 7.4. Nigatsudo Temple in Nara
• 7.5. Nara Deer Park
• 7.6. Kasuga-Taisha Temple
• 8. Where and What to Eat in Nara
• 9. Intrepid Scout's Tips for One Day in Nara

How to Get to Nara from Kyoto

Nara is a perfect destination on a day trip from Kyoto, and, there is nothing easier than to plan a day trip to Nara from Kyoto . You can do it! Here is how to get to Nara from Kyoto on a day trip: what you need to know is that there are two train lines that connect Kyoto with Nara, the JR Nara Line , and the Kintetsu Kyoto Line .

• JR Nara Line

If you have JR Pass , then you would want to take JR Nara Line . The cost of the trip will be covered by the pass. So, to start off, head to Kyoto Station and take the Miyakoji Rapid Train on the JR Nara Line. Miyakoji Rapid Train is the fastest connection between Kyoto and Nara. It only takes 45 minutes to reach JR Nara Station from Kyoto, if you take the rapid train.

I need to mention that there is Futsu local train which is covered by JR Pass as well, however, it stops by several stations on the way to Nara and the journey takes about 70 minutes.

• Kintetsu Kyoto Line

Kintetsu Kyoto Line is not covered by JR Pass , however, it is the fastest and most comfortable way to get to Nara. First of all, go to Kintetsu Kyoto Station and take the direct express (tokkyu) train on Kintetsu Kyoto Line. You will get to Kintetsu Nara Station in only 35 minutes.

By the way, JR Nara Station and Kintetsu Nara Station are within walking distance of each other and both stations are about the same distance from all the attractions.

How to Get to Nara from Osaka

If you are visiting Osaka , then, hands down, you should plan a day trip from Osaka to Nara. Tthere are two train lines connect Osaka with Nara: the JR Yamatoji Line , and the Kintetsu Nara Line .

• JR Yamatoji Line

JR Yamatoji Line is covered by Japan Rail Pass . If you have the pass, then your trip to Nara is covered. First, head to Osaka Station and take the JR Yamatoji Rapid Service . It will get you to JR Nara Station in 50 minutes.

In addition, if you are traveling from Osaka JR Namba Station , then take the local train of the Yamatoji Line to Kyuhoji Station and then transfer to the Yamatoji Rapid Service . This will get you to JR Nara Station in about 50 minutes as well.

JR Yamatoji Line is covered by Japan Rail Pass . If you have the pass, then your trip to Nara is covered / One Day in Nara

One Day in Nara 

• Kintetsu Nara Line

Kintetsu Nara Line is not covered by JR Pass . If you decide to take Kintetsu Nara Line, then head to Osaka Kintetsu Namba Station and take a Rapid Express train on the Kintetsu Nara Line. It will get you to Kintetsu Nara Station in about 39 minutes.

How to Get from JR Nara Station or Kintetsu Nara Station to Nara Park

As I mentioned before, JR Nara Station and Kintetsu Nara Station are located within walking distance from each other.

And, both stations are within walking distance from Nara Park where major attractions are located.

• If you are arriving at JR Nara Station then it takes about 15 minutes on foot to reach Kohfukuji Temple and the 5-Story Pagoda.

First, take East Exit from the station. Next, go north until you reach Sanjo Dori Street. It is a wide shopping street. Finally, turn right on Sanjo Dori Street (you will be walking east) and continue walking until you reach the park.

• If you are arriving at Kintetsu Nara Station then it is going to take you no more than 10 minutes on foot to reach Kohfukuji Temple and the 5-Story Pagoda. When you exit the station, turn right and then, start walking east.

If you are arriving at JR Nara Station then it akes about 15 minutes on foot to reach Kohfukuji Temple and the 5-Story Pagoda / One Day in Nara 

The entire area around the stations is very well-signed. So, do not worry, you will do great! / One Day in Nara 

One Day in Nara

Intrepid’s Tip:

What you need to know is that there is an option to take Loop Line Bus. It is super easy! The buses are colored bright yellow!

Take the number 2 service bus from bus stop number 2. This bus will take you to Nara Park in no more than 10 minutes.

How to Get Around in Nara

There are a couple of ways to get around in Nara, you can either walk or you can take Nara Loop Line Bus .

• If the weather is good, then my recommendation is that you explore Nara Park on foot. Most of Nara’s major attractions are located within walking distance from each other. Conversely, the entire park is extremely well-signed. So do not worry, follow the signs and you will get to all of Nara’s attractions.

The entire Nara Park is extremely well-signed. So do not worry, follow the signs and you will get to all of Nara’s attractions / One Day in Nara

• If you do not feel like walking, then the second option is to take Nara Loop Line Bus. It is a great bus service running between the train stations and Nara Park

Number 1 Service Bus runs in a counter-clockwise direction and Number 2 Service Bus follows the same loop in a clockwise direction.

What You Need to Know About Nara Before You Go

A Quick Read:

• Did you know that until the 7th century, Japan had no permanent capital?

The capital was moved with the passing of each emperor so that his successor would not be ill-fated by the death. The practice ended under the influence of Buddhism and with the Taika reforms of 646. However, the true aim of the reforms was to bring about greater centralization and enhance the power of the imperial court.

• The official capital was finally established in 710 and Nara, which was then known as Heijōkyō, was chosen as the site.

Nara remained the capital city until 784. The period between 710 and 794 is referred to as the Nara Period in Japanese history.

Interestingly enough, when a priest by the name of Dōkyō managed to seduce an empress and nearly usurp the throne, it was decided to move the court to a new location, out of reach of Nara’s increasingly powerful clergy. This led to the new capital being established in Kyoto, where it remained until 1868.

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Map of One Day in Nara

Legend: 1. Kofukuji Temple and Five-Story Pagoda, 2. Isuien Garden, 3. Todaiji Temple, 4. Nigatsudo, 5. Nara Deer Park, 6. Kasuga Taisha Temple

One Day in Nara - 6 Things You Can't Miss

Kofukuji temple and five-story pagoda.

Kofuku-ji Temple was founded in 669 by Emperor Tenji when Kagami-no-Okimi, the wife of Fujiwara-no-Kamatari , prayed for her husband’s recovery from illness.

This tradition of building temples for the consort’s recovery from illness was not uncommon during that time.

Eventually, Kofukuji Temple became a family temple of the powerful Fujiwara family. Yet, it not only served religious purposes, but it also had great political power over the government.

The temple was burnt down several times through the years but it was reconstructed for the most part. In 1998, Kofukuji Temple was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In 1998, Kofukuji Temple was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site / One Day in Nara 

The next building that will capture your attention is the five-story pagoda . The pagoda is said to have been built in 730 on the orders of Empress Komyo .

Today, Kofuku-ji Temple’s five-story pagoda is Japan’s second tallest pagoda and a symbol of Nara City .

The pagoda burnt down several times through the years. What you see today is the reconstruction from 1426.

Kofuku-ji Temple’s five-story pagoda is Japan’s second tallest pagoda and a symbol of Nara City / One Day in Nara

The pagoda burnt down several times through the years. What you see today is the reconstruction from 1426 / One Day in Nara 

Finally, make your way to Nanendo Hall of Kofukuji Temple. It was constructed in 813 and served as the tutelary temple of the Fujiwara clan.

Nanendo Hall of Kofukuji Temple was constructed in 813 and served as the tutelary temple of the Fujiwara clan / One Day in Nara 

Intrepid’s Tip: 

Kofukuji Temple is regarded as the birthplace of Noh drama . It hosted Noh performances as far back as A.D. 869.

Today the temple hosts two major Noh events — Takigi O-noh in May and Toei-Noh in October. Both are held outdoors at night. So, if you are visiting either in May or October, then make sure to attend this classical Japanese dance-drama.

Isuien Garden in Nara

Isuien Garden in Nara / One Day in Nara 

Isuien Garden has been preserved since its creation in the Meiji Era and is known for its use of borrowed scenery , such as Todaiji Temple’s Nandaimon Gate and Mount Wakakusayama.

It is divided into two sections, which were originally two separate gardens. The gardens cover roughly 145,000 square feet.

Isuien Garden has been preserved since its creation in the Meiji Era.  / One Day in Nara 

Isuien means garden founded on water . Its ponds are fed by the Yoshikigawa River.

In the central pond of the gardens, there are two islands with sculptures of a crane and a tortoise. In Japanese culture these animals represent longevity.

Isuien Garden is divided into two sections, which were originally two separate gardens. The gardens cover roughly 145,000 square feet (13,500 m2) / One Day in Nara

Next to Isuien Garden, you will find Yoshikien Garden . If you have time, then make sure to stop by and check it out.

Yoshikien Graden consists of three beautiful gardens: a pond garden, a moss garden, and a tea ceremony garden.

Todaiji Temple in Nara

Nara Park is home to the 8th century Todai-ji Temple (Great East Temple), the most famous of the Seven Great Temples of Nara.

For one thing, Todai-ji is the most popular site in Nara. If you can only visit one place during your Nara day trip, then Todai-ji Temple is it!

Todai-ji is the most popular site in Nara. If you can only visit one place during your Nara day trip, then Todai-ji Temple is it! / One Day in Nara

Leading to the temple is a splendid Nandaimon Gate . As you approach the gate, notice a unique plaque on top of it. It states that Todaiji is the main temple of the Kegonshu sect of Buddhism.

Next, step inside the gate. Subsequently, the gate houses two massive wooden statues . These are wrath-filled and muscular guardians of the Buddha known as Niō or Kongōrikishi. They are regarded as two of the finest wooden sculptures in Japan.

The statues were carved in the 13th century by the sculptors Unkei and Kaikei . They are about 30 feet high and particularly impressive at night when they are beautifully illuminated.

The gate houses two massive wooden statues. These are wrath-filled and muscular guardians of the Buddha known as Niō or Kongōrikishi. They are regarded as two of the finest wooden sculptures in Japan /  One Day in Nara 

The statues were carved in the 13th century by the sculptors Unkei and Kaikei. . They are about 30 feet high and particularly impressive at night when they are beautifully illuminated / One Day in Nara 

Next, you will be greeted by an immense Todaiji Daibutsuden , which is Great Buddha Hall.

It is hard to believe that the present structure is about one-third the size of the original temple which was built by Emperor Shomu in 741.

Todai-ji Daibutsuden was destroyed several times, first in 1180 and then again in 1567. It was rebuilt in 1709.

Also, did you know that Todai-ji Daibutsuden is the world’s largest wooden structure ? Notwithstanding, it is a masterpiece! Notably, many of the crisscrossing beams are positioned without any nails.

Todai-ji Daibutsuden houses the world’s largest bronze Buddha (Daibutsusan). The great Buddha of Nara was originally constructed between 735 and 749. It is 49.1 feet high and weighs over 550 tons.

When the giant Buddha was constructed, all of Japan’s reserves of bronze and precious metals were used up!

Todai-ji Daibutsuden houses the world’s largest bronze Buddha (Daibutsusan). The great Buddha of Nara was originally constructed between 735 and 749. It is 49.1 feet high and weighs over 550 tons / One Day in Nara

The great Buddha of Nara is flanked by two Bodhisattvas.

The great Buddha of Nara is flanked by two Bodhisattvas / One Day in Nara 

In addition to the Great Buddha of Nara, there are towering 30-foot-high wooden statues of warriors.

Impressive wooden statues of warriors / One Day in Nara 

Another popular attraction inside Todai-ji is a pillar with a hole in its base. Notably, the hole in the pillar is about the same size as Daibutsusan’s nostril.

It is said that those who can squeeze through this opening will receive enlightenment in their next life and also have all their prayers answered.

Another popular attraction inside Todai-ji is a pillar with a hole in its base / One Day in Nara 

It is said that those who can squeeze through this opening will receive enlightenment in their next life and also have all their prayers answered / One Day in Nara 

Todaiji Temple is open daily from 7:30 am till 5:30 pm  (April to October) and 8 am to 5 pm (November to March). Admission is 600 yen.

Make sure to buy a combination pass , which is a better deal and includes the Great Buddha Hall and Todaiji Museum. It costs 1,000 yen.

Nigatsudo Temple in Nara

To the east of the Great Buddha Hall and up on the side of Mount Wakakusa overlooking the city of Nara, sits Nigatsu-do , the Hall of the Second Month.

To the east of the Great Buddha Hall, you will find Nigatsudo Temple / One Day in Nara 

I think you will immediately notice that the atmosphere here differs from other temples in Nara. It may lack the grandeur of the Great Buddha Hall, but it has many intriguing elements and beautiful masterpieces.

Nigatsudo Temple has many intriguing elements and beautiful masterpieces / One Day in Nara

What caught my attention was the 18th-century Pindola divinity wooden statue . It is a Buddha disciple master in occult powers. It is believed that if you rub some part of his body and then you rub the same part of your body, the sickness or illness will leave your body.

18th-century Pindola divinity wooden statue. It is a Buddha disciple master in occult powers / One Day in Nara 

By the way, the name Nigatsudo means the Hall of the Second Month  or February Hall . It is derived from the fact that the Shuni-e Ceremony is held here during the second month of the lunar calendar. The Shuni-e Ceremony is also known as the Omizutori Festival.

The Omizutori Festival is marked with an eye-catching display of massive torches (6-8 meters in size).

The torches are carried up to Nigatsudo Hall’s balcony and then held above the Nigatsudo courtyard. These blazing torches shower down embers over the audience. This showering of sparks is believed to bestow a safe and fruitful year upon the gathered crowd.

What I liked about Nigatsudo Temple was the large front platform where you will get rewarded with the most spectacular view of Nara . My recommendation is to come back to Nigatsu-do Temple and catch a spectacular sunset!

My recommendation is to come back to Nigatsu-do Temple and catch a spectacular sunset / One Day in Nara 

Nara Deer Park

Nara is famous for its temples and shrines, however, on your Nara day trip you simply cannot skip the free-roaming Nara deer . They are just as popular!

By the way, there are hundreds of deer wandering through the vast lawns of Nara Park . Honestly, I thought that it would be rather hard to find them, when in fact, they are everywhere.

By the way, there are hundreds of deer wandering through the vast lawns of Nara Park . / One Day in Nara 

I found them to be friendly, and curious and show great interest in rice bran crackers called shika sembei – rice biscuits.

They show great interest in rice bran crackers called shika sembei – rice biscuits / One Day in Nara 

Apparently, there are over 1,300 deer in Nara Park. These deer are called sika, which is derived from the Japanese word for deer: shika.

Legend has it that in 768 when the Fujiwara family established the great Kasuga Shrine in the foothills of the Wakakusa Mountain, a Shinto deity descended from the mountain to the new sanctuary riding a sacred white deer. Since then, the deer became a revered animal, protected by the authorities, and a symbol of the city .

Interestingly enough, until 1637, killing a deer in Nara was considered a serious crime, even punishable by the death penalty.

After WWII the divinity of deer was officially suspended, but they were declared a national treasure. Nowadays, they are protected and maintained in a semi-wild state which humans and deer use to mutual advantage.

Apparently, there are over 1,300 deer in Nara Park / One Day in Nara 

These deer are called sika, which is derived from the Japanese word for deer: shika / One Day in Nara 

Kasuga-Taisha Temple

I have to honestly say that I love Nara and all the beautiful places in Nara, but Kasuga Taisha Shrine is my favorite place in Nara. Kasuga Taisha Shrine is top-notch!!!

The path leading to Kasuga Taisha Shrine is stunning. It is lined with thousands of aged, moss-covered stone lanterns.

The stone lanterns are known as “toro” and have been donated by worshipers as an expression of their faith.

And, b e on the lookout for the deer peeking in between the lanterns!

The path leading to Kasuga Taisha Shrine is stunning. It is lined with thousands of aged, moss-covered stone lanterns / One Day in Nara 

Be on the look-out for the deer peeking in-between the lanterns / One Day in Nara 

The path will eventually lead you to the vermilion-colored Kasuga Taisha Shrine .

The eves of the shrine are decorated with thousands of hanging brass and bronze lanterns ; some new and brightly polished, some old and tarnished by time.

The eves of Kasuga Taisha Shrine are decorated with thousands of hanging brass and bronze lanterns / One Day in Nara 

Kasuga Taisha is Nara’s most celebrated shrine.

The origins of Kasuga Taisha Shrine date back to the year 768, when four deities: Takemikazuchi-no-mikoto, Futsunushi-no-mikoto, Amenokoyane-no-mikoto and his consort Himegami were enshrined here for the prosperity and protection of the nation and the happiness of the citizens.

These four deities are also known as Kasuga-sume-ookami or Kasuga-Daimyojin (the Great Deities of Kasuga).

It is believed that the original designation of the site as a place of Shinto worship dates back to 710. Moreover, Kasuga Taisha Shrine was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998.

Kasuga Taisha is Nara’s most celebrated shrine / One Day in Nara 

The complex is open every day. Entrance to the grounds is free of charge except for a paid inner area (500 yen) which allows a closer view of several buildings with bronze lanterns and the Main Worship Hall.

If possible, come back to Kasuga Taisha Shrine in the evening. Notwithstanding, the entire place is absolutely stunning in the evening!

Where and What to Eat in Nara

There is an abundance of street food vendors selling all kinds of local delicacies.  If you walk along Sanjodori, Higashimuki and Mochiidono Streets you will have plenty of choices.

During your Nara day trip, you need to try some local specialties. Here are my top two recommendations, you simply can’t miss:

• Kakinoha-zushi

Kakinoha-zushi is sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves. However, it is not the fresh fish that is being used, but rather one that has been cured. The typical types of fish that are used are salmon, mackerel, and trout.

Once the fish is cured, it is pressed into molded sushi rice (which has usually been mixed with vinegar.) and then, wrapped securely in a persimmon leaf . The little sushi bundles are usually packaged in wooden boxes and left for a few days to ferment.

My recommendation is to get a box ‘to go’ at Hiraso and have a picnic in the park if the weather is nice. Otherwise, you can dine in. Hiraso is a restaurant and a shop specializing in kakinoha-zushi. It has three locations in Nara. The one that is the easiest to find is located just outside the JR Nara Station.

Kakinoha-zushi is sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves. However, it is not the fresh fish that is being used, but rather one that has been cured / One Day in Nara

I need to admit that the mochi in Nara was the best one I have ever had. First of all, you need to head to Nakatanidou . It is located on Hashimoto-cho Street, no more than a  5-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station. You will not miss it, because the mochi-pounding process takes place outside the shop and draws quite a crowd.

The high-speed mochi pounding, known as mochitsuki produces mochi that is soft and chewy.

Nakatanidou’s specialty is yomogi mochi . By the way, yomogi is a Japanese wild plant also known as mugwort. It gives mochi its natural green color and adds a refreshing taste. Once the gooey mochi mixture is produced, it is formed into oval cakes, filled with red bean paste, and lightly dusted with kinako (roasted soybean flour) before being served to customers. Each piece sells for 130 yen.

The high-speed mochi pounding, known as mochitsuki produces mochi that is soft and chewy / One Day in Nara 

Once the gooey mochi mixture is produced, it is formed into oval cakes, filled with red bean paste, and lightly dusted with kinako (roasted soybean flour) before being served to customers / One Day in Nara 

Intrepid Scout's Tips for One Day in Nara

• Nara is a perfect destination for a day trip from Kyoto or Osaka. And, it can be easily done!
• The best time to visit Nara is during spring. It looks absolutely spectacular with cherry blossoms. However, fall is just as stunning in Nara.

If you feel like it might be too difficult to navigate through Nara and get to all the attractions, then look into attending one of the half-day tours in Nara. My recommendation is to check out: The Essence of Nara Cultural Tour: Bid Buddha, Bambi, and Backstreets . You will get to visit temples, shrines, and traditional houses and feed the divine deer. Plus, the tour takes you through the backstreets and alleys of the merchant’s district, and you can try authentic street food.

Another great place that I am recommending that you visit is Arashiyama. Make sure to check out my post: 14 Unmissable Things to Do in Arashiyama, Kyoto

Here are Some More Useful Posts About Japan:

14 Amazing Things to Do in Arashiyama (Map+Useful Tips)

What to See at Nijo Castle in Kyoto (10 Top Things to Know)

Stunning Golden Pavilion in Kyoto (How to Visit and What to See)

Amazing Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto (8 Things to Know Before You Visit)

First Visit to Kyoto – How to Visit and What to See (11 Things You Can’t Miss)

2 Days in Kyoto: The Perfect Kyoto Itinerary

10 Amazing Things to Do in Hiroshima on Your First Visit 

Perfect Day Trip to Miyajima from Kyoto, Osaka, or Hiroshima (9 Things You Can’t Miis)

Read All the Posts About Japan in: 

Japan Travel Guide

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NARA ITINERARY: 1 DAY / DAY TRIP FROM OSAKA OR KYOTO

by thepinay solobackpacker | Jan 8, 2019 | Itinerary , Japan , Nara | 0 comments

With so many places to explore in Japan, repeat visits beckon, each ancient city here offers a unique  Japanese culture, just like Nara.  Despite having 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Nara is largely overshadowed by its more famous neighbors – Osaka and Kyoto. Most tourists often skip this first permanent capital of Japan, while those who drop by here oftentimes only have a day to spend.  Thankfully, the city is condensed so it is possible squeeze in the top attractions in Nara in one day. Here’s a sample Nara Itinerary for one day tour from Osaka and Nara day trip from Kyoto with breakdown of expenses.

TRAVEL BLOG CONTENTS

NARA ONE DAY ITINERARY WITH BUDGET

The sample budget below is supposing you will enter all the temples with entrance fees.  If you don’t intend to enter all the temples, budget will be lower/span>.  I recommend entering the Todaiji Temple, which houses the world’s largest bronze statue of Buddha enshrined in the largest wooden building in the world.

ALSO READ:  WHAT TO DO IN NARA IN 1 DAY

Cheap nara day tour from kyoto.

If you are pressed for time or you want a hassle-free tour of Nara, you can actually book a Nara day tour from Osaka. Here are some of the cheapest tour I’ve seen that includes Kyoto + Nara Tour from Osaka.

Kyoto, Nara & Arashiyama Day Tour from Osaka

This is a perfect day tour to Kyoto and Nara for those who are pressed for time.  Not to mention that the tour package is cheap. You will visit the main sites of Nara such as Nara Park, Tōdai-ji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine.  By lunch, you will have free time to explore Ninenzaka, Sannenzaka and Kiyomizu-dera temple before heading to Arashiyama.  Additionally, you get a bonus – a FREE Harukas 300 Observatory Pass valued at JPY 1,500 (PHP 681/ USD 14/ SGD 18/ MYR 58).

Tour package includes: Hotel pick up and drop off (please indicate your hotel details at checkout), guide and driver service fee, Transportation and HARUKAS 300 Observatory Pass.

ARASHIYAMA AND NARA DAY TOUR FROM OSAKA

The full day guided tour will take you to the picturesque Arashiyama where you can walk along the Bamboo Forest. You will also get to explore Nara that is peppered with 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Here you can get up close with the Japanese national treasures of Todaiji Temple and Daibutsu Buddha and get a chance to feed the sacred deer of Nara Park. Roundtrip transport and English-speaking guide is included in the tour package.  Lunch is optional.

HOW TO GET TO NARA FROM OSAKA

Nara is closer to Osaka than Kyoto.  So if you are coming from Osaka, you can ride either JR Line or Kintetsu Line. If you choose JR Line, the train departs from Osaka Station. On the other hand if you opt for Kintetsu Line, the train departs from Kintentsu Namba Station.

From Osaka-Namba Station walk to JR Namba Station for about 9 minutes. At JR Namba Station, take the tain at JR Yamatoji Line to Nara Station.  Alight at Nara Station. Transit time is roughly 44 minutes.  Train fare is JPY 560/PHP 262 (EURO 4/USD 5/SGD 7/MYR 22). From Nara Station, Nara Park is about a 20 minute walk.  You may also take a bus to Nara Park from Nara Station. Just look for the Bus terminal at JR Nara Station East Exit.  Board the City Loop Line Bus #2 (it’s a yellow bus) from bus stop 2.  Transit time is about 20 minutes and fare is JPY 210 / PHP 95 (EURO 2/USD 2/SGD 3/MYR 8). Alight at Nara Park.

NOTE: If you have a JR WEST RAIL PASS, you can use it here.

PURCHASE  JR PASS HERE

(KINTETSU LINE)

From Osaka-Namba Station, you can take the train at Kintetsu Nara Line. Alight at Kintetsu Nara Station. Train fare is JPY 560/PHP 262 (EURO 4/USD 5/SGD 7/MYR 22) and travel time is 39 minutes.  From Kintetsu Nara Station, Nara Park is about a 5 minute walk.

HOW TO GET TO NARA FROM KYOTO

From Kyoto, you have two options by train to get to Nara .

If you have a JR Rail Pass, you can opt for this option since you can use your pass here.  From Kyoto Station, take the train at JR Nara Line to Nara.  Travel time is 45 minutes and fare is JPY 710 /PHP 332 (EURO 6/USD 7 /SGD 9/MYR 30). From Nara Station, you can reach Nara Park (where most attractions are concentrated) for about 20 minutes by foot. Alternatively, you can take a bus to Nara Park from JR Nara Station East Exit Bus Terminal. Board Bus # 2, the yellow bus for City Loop Bus for JPY 210 / PHP 95 (EURO 2/USD 2/SGD 3/MYR 8).  Transit time is about 20 minutes.

If you don’t have a JR Pass, your best bet is to take the express Kintetsu Line train at Kyoto Station. From Kyoto Station, take the Kintetsu Kyoto Line Exoress for Kintetsu Nara Station.  Travel tim is 49 minutes and fare is JPY 620/PHP 289 (EURO 5/USD 6/SGD 8/MYR 24).  From Kintetsu Nara Station, Nara Park is about a 5 minute walk.

TIP: For train schedules and fare rates, visit Hyperdia.com

POCKET-WIFI RENTAL JAPAN

Since English is not widely-spoken in Japan, asking for directions can be hard.  Best to stay connected online to use Google Maps and Google Translate.  You can rent pocket Wi-Fi in advance before you fly to Japan and just pick it up at the airport. Wi-Fi devices are in demand and may ran out quickly, so booking in advance is highly recommended, not to mention you will avoid long lines.  You can reserve pocket Wi-Fi through the link below.

RESERVE POCKET WI-FI HERE

WHERE TO STAY IN NARA

Should you decide to stay in overnight or for 2 days in Nara, there are a couple of budget hotels around the city center.  Don’t forget to ask about the check-out time and their luggage policy, some budget hotels (like the one we stayed at) doesn’t allow guests to leave their luggage after check out. If this is the case, you can leave your luggage at Nara Tourist Center near Nara Station for JPY 500 / PHP 234 (EURO 4 / USD 10/ SGD 13/ MYR 42).

Here’s a list of best budget hotels in nara, near Nara Park.

NARA BUDGET HOTELS

Nara Deer Hostel

593-17 Sanjōchō, Nara City Center, Nara

CHECK RATES HERE

Guest House Iki

1-5 Kamisanjo-cho, Nara City Center, Nara

Guest House Route53 Furuichi

6 Higashiterabayashi-cho, Nara City Center, Nara

NARA JAPAN TRAVEL TIPS

⊗ If you are taking the City Bus Loop in Nara, fixed fare is JPY 210 (PHP 95/USD 2/SGD 3/MYR 8) for adults and JPY 110 (PHP 50/USD 0.99/SGD 1.35/MYR 4.25) for children.

⊗  If you will stay overnight in Nara, make sure your hotel allows luggage storage as the check-out time here is quite early – 9:00 AM.

⊗  You can leave your luggage at Nara Tourist Information Center near Nara Station for JPY 500 / PHP 234 (EURO 4 / USD 10/ SGD 13/ MYR 42) per luggage for one day.

OSAKA KYOTO ITINERARY With Budget (5 days)

NARA TRAVEL BLOG (Budget + Itinerary)

TRAVEL GUIDE TO OSAKA (Budget + Itinerary) 2017

 TRAVEL GUIDE TO KYOTO (Budget + Itinerary) 2017

TRAVEL GUIDE TO NAGOYA (Budget + Itinerary) 2017

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Nara Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog To Visit Nara

Last updated on April 27th, 2024

Nara is very ideal for a day trip from Osaka and Kyoto by a short journey train. Here is my completed one-day Nara itinerary on foot during cherry blossom in early April.

If you’re planning a trip to Kansai Japan, you should try to spend at least one day in Nara. There are so many things to do and a must-see in Nara. Every year, it attracts more than millions of visitors to Nara for its historical treasures.

Take a historical visit to Todai-Ji Temple, Kasuga Grand Shrine, or some other ancient building in Nara. Or wandering around at Nara Park with a free-roaming deer encounter. It is pretty easy to plan for a one-day Nara itinerary. Moreover, this city also offers some unique must-eat food when visiting Nara. Don’t leave Nara without trying on the local specialties such as Kamameshi and Kakinoha sushi. It’s a unique city that blends with the past and present in Japan.

In this Nara travel blog, we will share the best things to do, food to eat, and some useful tips in this Nara travel guide when getting around in Nara. My one-day Nara itinerary is included.

Table of Contents

How To Get To Nara

It is always a great idea to plan for a one-day trip to Nara from Kyoto or Osaka. Both are located with a roughly 1-hour train journey from Nara. Moreover, there are many train options available to get you there.

However, there are two train stations in Nara: JR Nara station and Kintetsu Nara station. Depending on how you get to Nara, your first arriving location will be different. Regardless of getting to Nara from Osaka or Kyoto and which train operator you choose. Nara is accessible by train for around or less than one hour. You’ll have plenty of time for exploring Nara in one day.

The following are the recommended transportation option to get to Nara either from Osaka or Kyoto.

From Osaka To Nara

The best way to get to Nara from Osaka is by train. There are two train options to get to Nara from Osaka: Kintetsu Nara Line and JR Kanjo-Yamatoji Lines.

• Kintetsu Nara Line : Rapid Express train departs from Kintetsu Namba Station and arrives at Kintetsu Nara Station. The train journey takes you about 39 minutes at ¥560.
• JR Kanjo-Yamatoji Lines : departing from JR Osaka or JR Namba Station and arriving at JR Nara Station. It takes about 45 to 55 minutes to reach JR Nara station.

From Kyoto To Nara

Similar to how to get to Nara from Osaka, there are also two train lines running between Kyoto and Nara: JR West and Kintetsu Railways.

• JR Miyakoji Nara Lines : departing from JR Kyoto Station and arriving at JR Nara Station. It takes about 50 minutes at ¥710 to reach JR Nara station.
• Kintetsu Nara Line : departing from Kintetsu Kyoto Station and arriving at Kintetsu Nara Station. The faster way to get to Nara from Kyoto is the Kintetsu-Limited Express with 35 minutes. This train runs twice an hour and costs you about ¥1130 with a seat reservation fee required.

Alternatively, the local train costs you ¥620 for 50 minutes. Take note, certain trains require the transfer at Yamato-Saidaiji Station before continuing to the Nara line.

Getting Around in Nara

Most of the things to see and do in Nara are located around Nara Park. Additionally, Nara Park can be easily accessed by foot from both Kintetsu and JR Nara train stations. However, JR Nara station is located slightly away which required an additional 10 minutes walk. A Loop line bus with ¥210 is available for a single ride if you need bus transport.

So, we have suggested travelers get to Nara by Kintetsu train compared with the JR train.

Nara Itinerary

In general, our Nara itinerary will cover the whole journey starting from Nara Park with free-roaming deer. From the Kintetsu train station, turn right and walk toward the Nara Park direction. After enjoying the deer encounter, continue your journey and walk through the Nara Park into the virgin forest before heading to Kasuga Grand Shrine.

Next, continue the walking journey to Todaiji Temple for the great Buddha visit. Have a nice Kamameshi as lunch before or after visiting the Todaiji Temple. Lastly, have some souvenirs and snacks at Naramachi district and Higashimuki before back to Osaka.

Nara itinerary – What to do and eat in Nara:

Feed The Free-roaming Deer in Nara Park

Wandering around in nara park.

• Visit Kasuga Grand Shrine (Kasuga-Taisha)

Try The Nara Local Cruise: Kamameshi

Pray at todaiji temple, stroll around naramachi district, shop for souvenirs or snack in higashimuki.

The day trip to Nara on foot took us about 4 to 5 hours. Of course, you can take the Loop Line bus for a more relaxing trip. However, we enjoyed our time in Nara by wandering around on foot leisurely.

Let’s check out more detail on my Nara itinerary.

Firstly, be prepared once you get out of Kintetsu station and walked to Nara Park. We were welcomed by the beloved city’s animal residents with hundreds of deer wandering through the Nara Park.

Nara Park is home to the free-roaming deer. Locals believe deer inhabiting the surrounding forest were deemed sacred messengers of the gods. It is now declared a national treasure and fully protected. But no worry, you can join the group and take part in the popular activities in Nara: feed the deer!

You can purchase the rice cracker, called Shika Sembei from the licensed street vendors for ¥150. As soon as you are holding something fishy, the deer will come after you. Enjoy the animal encounter and say hello to the deer. They will keep following you until they manage to get a snack from you.

However, they can be very aggressive in trying to get the food out of your hand. Make sure not to tease them with food!

Nara Park is a vast landscape that extended from east of downtown to the mountain behind Mount Wakakusayama. The whole area is lined by trees and a beautiful pond which is perfect for a leisure stroll.

If you are coming to Nara in spring, you will be blessed with all the beautiful cherry blossoms everywhere in the park. It made our trip so fantastic and romantic.

Take your time to have a nice walk at Nara Park. Locals brought their picnic mats and mesmerized them under the beautiful cherry tree. While kids enjoy their time playing with deer. It is one of the great places for outdoor activities besides visiting the temples the shrines nearby.

You can just wander around the park and have a great time here. If you go further inside, you will walk into the virgin forest with evergreen oaks and beech trees along the path.

There are several other sites that you can check out. For example Primeval Forest, Isuien Historic Garden, Manyo Botanical Gardens, or some other historical building like Ukimi-do Hall.

Kasuga Grand Shrine (Kasuga-Taisha)

Kasuga Grand Shrine (春日大社)  is one of the Nara’s UNESCO Historic Monuments since 1998. This shrine is decorated with thousands of moss-covered stone lanterns and various types of bronze hanging lanterns. The lanterns are only lit twice a year during Lantern Festivals in early February and mid-August.

It is also the most celebrated shrine in Nara and opens every day for visitors. Free entrance but you will need to pay ¥500 if you want to get a closer look at the building and lanterns in the inner hall.

Kasuga Grand Shrine

• Getting there : 30 minutes walk from Kintetsu Station.
• Entrance fee : Free entrance to the ground and ¥500 to visit the inner area.

Kamameshi (釜飯), literally “kettle rice” is one of the popular local cuisines in Nara. Normally cooked together with chicken, beef, seafood, veggie or mushroom. Generally, “kama” refers to ceramic or iron pot while “meshi” means rice. This simple iron-cooked rice with a slight burn at the bottom will let you taste the different rice textures. Something simple yet healthy delicious food.

Shizuka Kouen-ten served the best Kamameshi in Nara. However, expected a long wait due to its popularity. The line was extremely long which required more than one hour of waiting time during our visit. So we decided to eat the Kamameshi at a restaurant nearby. Still, the waiting time is about 30 minutes. The food is slightly less tasty but flavorful. It has a delicate and sophisticated texture due to its slow cooking method. Generally, it was a unique experience to try the Kamameshi in Nara.

Next,  Todaiji Temple (東大寺)  is one of the top things to do and see in Nara. It is also one of the landmarks in Nara. The Big Buddha hall,  Daibutsuden is the world’s largest wooden structure and houses Japan’s largest bronze Buddha statue. This masterpiece building is only two-thirds of the original temple hall’s size.

Inside the Buddha hall, you will notice one of the pillars with a hole in its base. Many people were queuing to squeeze through the hole. Curious why people are doing this? It is said that you will receive enlightenment in the next life and prays will be answered if successfully squeeze through. Well, we did not try on it but the kids have seen it very enjoyable.

Besides, the Todaiji ground is very spacious with some smaller temple halls beside the Main Buddha Hall. Examples, Todaiji Museum (¥600), Nigatsudo Hall (free), Hokkedo Hall (¥600), Kaidando Hall (¥600). You can pay for your visit if you are interested.

Todaiji Temple

• Entrance fee : ¥600

Naramachi or Nara Town is the oldest and former merchant district in the city. Most of the building was built during the late Edo and Meiji period for local merchants.

Nowadays, Naramachi has been changed into a town of tourism. Those old merchant houses have been preserved and some made open to the public as museums. You may take a brief visit if you are interested. For instance, Gangoji Temple is one of Nara’s seven great temples with a ¥500 entrance fee. For free entrance, consider visiting Koshi-no-le Residence, Nigiwai-no-le, and Naramachi Shiryokan.

Moreover, Naramachi is a great place for you to take some rest or wind down. Plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes here if you are looking for what to eat in Nara.

Naramachi District

• Getting there : 10 to 15 minutes walk to the south from Kintetsu Station.

Before you back to Osaka or Kyoto, you can stop by the Higashimuki shopping district located beside Kintetsu train station. It is a roofed shopping area if you want to pick up some souvenirs or snacks before leaving Nara.

There are many restaurants and stalls with delicious food or snacks. Choose from western food or Japanese-style cuisines such as ramen, soba, or some other street food.

Make sure to try the  Kakinoha sushi if you’re visiting Nara. Kakinoha Sushi aka persimmon leaf sushi is one of the local specialties in Nara. The sushi is wrapped in persimmon leave and placed in a wooden box for fermenting for a few days. Normally it will wrap together with salmon, mackerel, prawns, or some other dishes.

Many shops are selling this local specialty in Nara.  Hiraso seems to make the best Kakinoha sushi in Nara with three shops in the city. However, we were still full after the Kamameshi as lunch. So we just grabbed a box of kakinoka sushi with three pieces inside at a kiosk nearby station for a taste of it.

Where To Stay in Nara

We had a very beautiful visit to Nara in one day. Generally, Nara is good and doable by one day trip to Nara from Osaka or Kyoto. However, if you would like to visit Nara leisurely, please stay one night in Nara. The accommodation in Nara is generally cheaper than in Osaka and Kyoto.

We would be recommended to stay nearby the train station or Nara park if you are looking for the best places to stay in Nara . They are very convenient for transportation arrangements and sightseeing in Nara.

Onyado Nono Nara Natural Hot Spring is one of the excellent places to stay in Nara for its price and relax in hot springs. The hotel is decorated in traditional Japanese style and trying the hot springs were awesome.

Centurion Hotel Classic Nara Station is nearly open with new and clean facilities provided. All the must-see attraction in Nara is walkable from the hotel. Conveniently located close to Nara JR station and Kintetsu station with 7 minutes walk.

Oak Hostel Nara is a great option for the best budget stays in Nara. Perfectly located nearby Kintetsu Nara Station. Choose from a single, double, or family room for your stay in Nara.

Alternatively, read about our accommodation in Kyoto and Osaka if you are looking for the best stay.

• Where to Stay in Kyoto and Itinerary Guide
• Where to Stay in Osaka: Namba or Umeda?

Overview: 1-Day Nara Itinerary

All in all, we highly recommended visiting Nara when planning on your Kansai trip. Our trip to Nara is during the cherry blossom season. This historical city was amazingly beautiful with pink sakura everywhere. It is also one of Japan’s most famous cherry blossom spots. Highly recommended.

Here are some of the quick Nara itinerary tips for you:

Nara is absolutely worth spending a half-day to a day visiting. Visit the Todaiji temple and check out the deer park. Personally, I think the deer in Nara are fabulous!

A half-day (four hours) is enough to see Nara’s major sights. But we recommended spending a mere 6 to 7 hours in Nara to slowly enjoy the sights and food.

Nara is accessible by train with less than one hour of train ride from Osaka or Nara. Depending on how you get to Nara, your first arriving location will be different from Osaka or Kyoto.

Kamameshi (釜飯), literally “kettle rice” is one of the popular local cuisines in Nara and is rated as must eat food in Nara.

Continue Read On:

Lastly, Nara is part of our 7-day Kansai itinerary. Free feel to continue to read on our Kansai trip to other interesting places including Osaka, Kyoto, and Uji.

How to Plan Your 7 Days Kansai Japan itinerary

Osaka Itinerary : Things to do in Osaka: Ultimate Travel Guide Blog

• Osaka Amazing Pass itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog
• Where to Stay in Osaka: Namba or Umeda
• Osaka Food Guide: Top 8 Unique Food To Eat in Osaka

Kyoto itinerary :  15 Things To Do and Eat for 3 Days in Kyoto

• Where to Stay in Kyoto: The Best Areas and Hotels
• Kyoto Food Blog: Top 7 Must Eat Food in Kyoto

How to travel to Osaka, Kyoto & Nara:

• Kansai Airport to Osaka with Cheapest Transportation
• How To Get To Kyoto From Kansai Airport, Osaka & Tokyo
• From Tokyo To Kyoto: Cheapest Or Fastest?

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A girl's adventure in food and travel around the world, nara day trip itinerary: things to do in nara.

Nara was the first permanent capital of ancient Japan. It held the permanent capital city title for most of the 8th century before Kyoto took the title. If you are visiting Osaka or Kyoto and have a day to spare, you definitely want to make a stop in this quaint and quiet city.

Read on to find out what you can do in Nara!

When is the best time to visit Nara?

Much like the rest of Japan, the best time to visit Nara would be around  spring  during  Sakura time , or  autumn  during  Momiji time . I would try to avoid the Summer months in Japan as the weather could get really hot and humid. I would also avoid September to early October due to the typhoon season.

I have personally visited Nara during spring and winter time. I encourage you to visit during springtime because the Sakura flowers make the entire country feel extra dreamy. That said, I had a pleasant visit during winter due to the lower density of crowds.

Dive Deeper: Read about my experience visiting Japan during the Sakura (Spring) or Momiji (Autumn) season!

How much time should I spend in Nara?

Nara is an easy day trip from Osaka or Kyoto . While there are plenty of things to see and do in Nara to warrant a visit, all the attractions are very close together and easy to get through in one day .

If you intend to make this a day trip, I suggest leaving as early as possible in the morning. You’ll need at least 6 hours to explore Nara and see the essential things to do.

Spending overnight in Nara is optional. If you have a lot of extra time in Japan or if you are really interested in being away from a big city, it could be worth it. Especially if you have an interest in temples and want to see all eight UNESCO World Heritage sites in Nara.

How to get to Nara

The most convenient way to reach Nara is by train from Osaka or Kyoto. Nara can be reached in under an hour from both destinations.

Rail Pass: If you’re mainly interested in visiting Osaka, Nara, and Kyoto, consider getting the Kintetsu Rail Pass , which will save you money and let you use the bus in Nara.

1. Get to Nara from Osaka

From Osaka, you could go from Osaka-Namba station to Kintetsu-Nara station using the Kintetsu rapid express trains which takes around 40 minutes.

Alternatively, Nara JR Station can be reached via the Osaka Loop line from the Osaka Station. This line is covered by JR Pass if you already have one, but if not, they cost about 820 yen one way.

2. Get to Nara from Kyoto

From Kyoto, the most straightforward way to get to Nara is using the Kintetsu Express train from Kyoto Station to Yamato Saidaji Station. From there, you can switch trains to reach Kintetsu-Nara Station. This takes about 45 minutes.

Please note that Kintetsu Rail Pass does not include rides on the limited express trains, which are supposed to be faster. If you ask me though, the limited express train is not worth the price for travel from Kyoto to Nara. At this distance, it only ends up being a few minutes faster than the regular rapid express trains, so I suggest just getting the Kintetsu Rail Pass and using the rapid express trains.

Nara Day Tours

While I think Nara is totally doable on your own, Nara is a city rich in history. You might benefit from joining a tour with a dedicated guide. Here are a few options if you want to have a guide who can explain more about Nara to you:

• Essential Nara 3-hour tour – If you just want to see the essentials of Nara similar to what I have outlined below, you’ll want to book this tour.
• Private full-day tour of Nara – If you want a tour guide just for yourself and the ability to customize the tour, this one is for you!
• Nara Tour from Kyoto – For those of you coming from Kyoto. This tour includes transport to Nara from Kyoto
• Nara and Wakayama Tour from Osaka – This tour includes transport to Nara from Osaka. It will also go to Wakayama, which would be beautiful during autumn time.

Where to stay in Nara

As I said before, spending overnight in Nara is completely optional. However, if you want to, you could consider staying close to the main train stations for convenience’s sake.

Here are a few hotels where you can stay near the station:

• Kasuga Hotel – Located conveniently close to Kintetsu-Nara station and all the attractions you want to see in Nara.
• Machiya no Yado – A traditional Japanese house located a short walk from the stations, but closer to the attractions in Nara.
• Residence Ferie Nara station – Located within a block away from the Nara JR Station.

But if you are after unique stays and can sacrifice proximity to the train station, I recommend looking into the following accommodations:

• Kotonoyado Musashino – A ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) located in the Nara Park, near Kasuga Taisha shrine
• Tsukihitei – Another ryokan in Nara Park, with a more secluded location. You won’t see many other people in this area!

How to Get Around in Nara

Everything was so close by in Nara that we just explored the city on foot. I even had my toddler in tow for my second visit to Nara, and I still find it doable to explore on foot.

That said, this being Japan, you can always rely on public transport! If you have the Kintetsu Rail Pass , you’ll have access to the Nara Kotsu bus , which you can use to get around Nara. Click here to view the Nara bus route .

Essential Nara Day Trip Itinerary

As I said before, Nara is best done as a day trip from Osaka or Kyoto. Here is an itinerary you can follow if you’re interested in exploring Nara in just one day!

1. Arrive early at Nara Station in the morning

Approximate time needed: ~30-45 minutes

Start your day bright and early at the Nara station. While there are trains arriving in Nara as early as 6 am, I don’t think you need to arrive until 8 to 9 am. That’s when most temples and shops will start to open.

However, if you do arrive early and the weather is cooperating, I suggest going to Mount Wakakusa for an easy hike with a nice view of Nara from above. By the time you’re done, you should be able to explore the rest of Nara!

Otherwise, from the train stations, start to make your way towards Todai-ji temple. It takes around 30-45 minutes by foot from the train stations, and it’s a very easy and peaceful morning walk!

2. Visit the Great Buddha at Todai-ji

Approximate time needed: ~30-45 mins

Todai-ji, meaning “Great Eastern Temple”, is one of the most significant temples in Japan. The temple ground in Todai-ji is massive. Follow the signs to purchase tickets at the entrance.

Admission to the temple is 600 yen per person over 13 years old, and 300 yen for kids 6-12 years old. Kids below 6 enter for free

Admission Fee: Check the most recent Todai-ji admission price here

Inside the temple, you’ll immediately greeted by the sight of this massive wooden structure. Stay on the left side to enter the hall.

At the entrance is the Great Buddha Hall (Daibutsuden). As the name greatly implies, the hall houses a large bronze statue – a massive, 49-meter tall statue!

The Great Buddha statue has been rebuilt twice after fire incidents which was common in Japan at that time. The current statue was built in 1709, and although it is already massive, it’s still only 30% of the size of the original statue!

Make your way around the Great Buddha statue in a clockwise direction, which is a Buddhist tradition called circumambulation – a way of showing respect and devotion. You’ll find an exit at the end and that’s where you’ll be able to walk out.

Take note of the souvenir shop at the end, where you’ll also be able to buy some omamori , which are Japanese good-luck amulets commonly sold at Shinto shrines.

3. Nigatsu-do and Sangatsu-do (February and March Hall)

Admission fee: Nigatsu-do and Sangatsu-do are free to visit

Right off the exit of Todai-ji, head west for a peaceful walk on a cobbled pathway to Nigatsu-do, the February Hall. You might even start to see Sika deers around this area.

At Nigatsu-do, there is a second level with a large balcony that overlooks Nara. On March 12-13 every year, there is a fire and water ceremony called Omizutori at Nigatsu-do, where flaming torches are lit up on these balconies.

Just slightly south below Nigatsu-do is Sangatsu-do (March Hall), a lesser-known part and the oldest structure in Todai-ji. You’ll be able to view carved Buddha statues in this hall.

4. Nandaimon (Great South Gate)

Once you are done with Nigatsu-do and Sangatsu-do, head back to Todai-ji and then head south to Nandaimon, or the Great South Gate. This gate is the largest wooden gate in Japan, completed in 1203.

In front of Nandaimon, just a short walk away, you’ll start to see a row of souvenir shops and hungry Sika deers, waiting for you to feed them. You can purchase plain Shika-Senbei (sugarless rice crackers specially made for deer) for 150 yen at the shops and feed the deer!

And guess what, you can also try one of those Senbei for yourself! Unlike the Shika-Senbei you buy for the deer, which are plain and sugarless, the ones for human consumption are thankfully more flavorful. There are sweet and savory variations – I tried the soy senbei (savory), zarame senbei (sweet with sugar crystals) and the plum-flavored senbei (sweet and sour).

5. Stroll around Nara Deer Park

Approximate time needed: ~1 hour

From Nandaimon, start to walk southwest towards Kasuga Taisha shrine through Nara Deer Park, where you’ll be more than likely to see more Sika deer, a protected animal believed to be the messenger of Shinto gods.

The Sika deer are considered a national treasure of Japan. There are around 1,400 deer estimated to be living in Nara and most of them would be hanging in and around the park.

Similar to the shopping street in front of Nandaimon, you’ll be able to purchase Shika-Senbei around the park for 150 yen if you are keen to feed the deer. Shika-senbei is a sugarless rice cracker specially made for deer.

They are very used to humans and not scared of us! My only advice about the Sika deer is to heed the warning posted all over the park. While Sika deer are not violent or overly aggressive, they are still wild animals. They might occasionally attack or chase you if they think you have Senbei on you, so be very careful when interacting with them! Especially if it’s their mating season.

Once you have Shika-senbei, the deer would just come running to you – in fact, the hungry ones would chase you down if they know you have some Senbei, and eat them straight off your hands.

Aside from that, it should be a very peaceful walk among the trees before you get to Kasuga Taisha shrine. You’ll get to experience Shinrin-yoku , which is literally translated as “forest bathing”. It means taking a slow walk in nature and appreciating nature through our senses.

6. Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Finally, you’ll reach Kasuga Taisha shrine, one of the most worshipped shrines in Nara. The shrine is free to visit, but there is a paid section inside. I did not go for the paid section here due to time constraints, but I regret that now. I’ve read that it’s worth it! In the inner area, you’ll be able to see the lanterns that made this shrine popular.

Admission Fee: 500 yen for the inner area, free for the outer courtyard area

7. Explore Naramachi before you go

On your way back to the station, be sure to explore Naramachi (Nara town) before you leave. There are shops and restaurants to occupy your time with. Just make sure you’re here before 6pm, as most shops in Nara close early.

Stop by Higashimuki Shopping Street for some souvenir shopping! The whole street is covered, making it good to visit any time – rain or shine.

One of my favorite things to do in Naramachi is to watch the Yomogi mochi (sticky rice cake) pounding at Nakatanidou . It’s quite a sight to see – I was amazed by the synchronization and speed at which they were pounding the mochi. You can watch this video on Youtube to see what you can expect here!

You’ll also be able to purchase the freshly pounded mochi at the shop, which I highly recommend. You can find mochi anywhere in Japan, but to find one that is this fresh is quite rare.

8. (Optional) Mount Wakakusa Hike

Approximate time needed: ~2-2.5 hours

Mount Wakakusa hike is an easy hike you can do in Nara. It takes about 35-45 minutes to reach the peak, which is only about 350 meters high. It is actually more of a hill than a mountain.

The trail to go up to the peak can be found behind Todai-ji, so you could easily do this hike as the first thing in your itinerary, then explore Todai-ji and the rest of Nara.

If this is of interest to you, set aside about 2 hours to climb up and back down, and some time to spend at the summit for the view of Nara.

What and where to eat in Nara

While you’re in Nara, here are some local specialties dishes you can try:

1. Kakinoha Zushi (柿の葉寿司)

Kakinoha Zushi means Persimmon Leaf Sushi. Unlike the sushi you might know, which is usually a piece of raw fish served on vinegared rice, Kakinoha Zushi is pressed inside persimmon leaf, and the fish slices are salted to preserve the ingredients.

This style of sushi dates back to the Edo period. Back then, here was no technology or freezer to preserve fish, and people needed to figure out a way to transport sushi to the inland areas that are far from the ocean. Persimmon leaf is used to preserve sushi for its antibacterial properties.

Where to try Kakinoha Zushi

• Izasa ( Google Maps )
• Hiraso ( Google Maps )

2. Chagayu (茶粥)

Chagayu is a tea rice porridge special to Nara. It is simply made by simmering rice in a broth of tea. The tea used is usually Houjicha, which is green tea made from roasted leaves which gives it a smoky flavor.

Where to try Chagayu

• Tou no Chaya ( Google Maps )
• Tsukihiboshi ( Google Maps ) – A mostly vegetarian restaurant that specializes in pickled vegetables. They serve Chagayu as one of the options!

3. Narazuke (奈良漬)

Narazuke is a traditional pickled vegetable, made from soaking vegetables in salt and sake yeast deposit, which gives the vegetable a deep red-brown color. Narazuke is usually eaten with rice.

Where to try Narazuke

• Mori Narazuke ( Google Maps ) – Opens Daily 9am – 6pm
• Imanishi Honten ( Google Maps ) – Authentic Narazuke
• Tsukihiboshi ( Google Maps ) – A mostly vegetarian restaurant that specializes in pickled vegetables, and Narazuke is one of them.

4. Other restaurants you can try in Nara

• Mizuya Chaya ( Google Maps ) – Good option to eat if you’re inside the Nara Park.
• Soba-dokoro Kitahara ( Google Maps )- While Soba is not a Nara specialty, this restaurant does it well and warrants a visit. They are located very close to Todai-ji. They are open daily from 11am-4pm and closed on Tuesdays.
• Kamaiki Udon ( Google Maps ) – Award-winning udon near the Kintetsu Nara train station.

And that’s all I know about visiting Nara! I hope this guide helps you plan your visit. If you have any questions or comments, please comment below and let me know what you think!

Until next time 👋

• March 12, 2024

Last year, while discovering Nara, we passed by Tsukihiboshi. We are not vegetarians but wanted to try pickles. It was so good, with a lot of choices and pickles I never eat before. I love the rice maker ! The staff is very nice.

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The best day trip to Nara and Osaka from Kyoto

Share this day trip from Kyoto to Nara and Osaka

Last updated on: 22 January 2024

In this article, I will explain how to plan the best day trip to Nara and Osaka from Kyoto if you have limited time. In this trip you will see the highlights of both cities hassle free. I also give you ideas, if you have more time to spend in each city.

Table of Contents

Map of all sights in this day trip to nara and osaka from kyoto, first stop: nara (09:00-13:00), reasons to visit nara: history.

Nara holds a significant place in the history of Japan. The city became the capital of Japan in 710, marking the beginning of the Nara period (710-794) . The first name of the capital was Heijokyo. (The previous capital was Fujiwara-kyo between 694 and 710.)  The purpose of moving the capital to Nara was to create a centralized government modeled after the Chinese capital, Chang’an. 

The Nara Period is when Buddhism was introduced to Japan, Many of the city’s monumental structures appeared during that period as well. These projects were undertaken under the leadership of Emperor Shomu and his consort, Empress Komyo.

In 794, the capital was moved to Heian-kyo (present-day Kyoto ) and this was the beginning of the Heian period (794-1185) . Many factors played a role, such as the influence of powerful Buddhist monasteries in Nara and the desire of the rulers to escape the (perceived) meddling of the Buddhist clergy in political affairs.

Despite losing its status as the capital, Nara remained an important center for Buddhism and a cultural hub. More temples and shrines were established during the Heian Period.

Between 1185 and 1603 (known as the Medieval period), Nara went through various ups and downs during. The city saw economic decline, but it remained an important cultural and religious center.

During the Edo Period (1603-1868) , Nara regained some prominence as a religious center. The Kasuga Taisha Shrine was established, and the city became a place of pilgrimage.

Today , Nara is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its well-preserved temples, shrines, and traditional architecture. In this article I will outline the highlights of Nara that are worth including in your day trip.

Kofuku-ji: the most important temple of Nara

Our first stop after getting off the train was Kofuku-ji Temple . This was the family temple of the Fujiwara clan, the most powerful aristocratic clan during much of the Nara (710-784) and Heian (794-1185) periods. The temple was established in Nara when it became the capital in 710. At the height of Fujiwara influence, the temple consisted of over 150 buildings.

Nara park: deer meet people

We then continued towards Nara Park . It was established in 1880 and covers approximately 502 hectares and is home to several significant historical and cultural landmarks. 

One of the most iconic features of Nara Park is its population of over 1,000 freely roaming sika deer (Cervus nippon). They are considered sacred messengers of the gods in Shinto tradition. The deer are a symbol of the city and are protected as a natural treasure. If you like, you can buy some food for them at one of the stands. They were rather curious and did not hesitate to come close. 🙂

More of the highlights of Nara

The area surrounding Nara Park is where you will find a few more of the highlights of Nara.

Todai-ji Temple , meaning “Great Eastern Temple”, is one of Japan’s most famous and historically significant temples and a landmark of Nara. The temple dates from 752. It functioned as the head temple of all provincial Buddhist temples of Japan. In the course of time, it grew so powerful that the region’s rulers moved the capital from Nara to Nagaoka in 784 to lower the temple’s influence on government affairs.

Kasuga Taisha (Kasuga Grand Shrine) is Nara’s most celebrated Shinto shrine.

Shinto or Shintoism, is a religion that originated in Japan. Its practitioners often regard it as Japan’s indigenous religion and also as a nature religion. Shinto has no central authority in control and much diversity exists among practitioners.

Kasuga Taisha dates from the same time as the capital. The shrine is dedicated to the deity that protected the city. Kasuga Taisha was also the tutelary shrine of the Fujiwara clan. This was Japan’s most powerful family clan during most of the Nara period (710-794) and Heian period (194-1185).

Within Nara Park, you will also come across two beautiful Japanese gardens: Isuien and Yoshikien . Isuien is a strolling garden with a pond, and Yoshikien features a tea ceremony house and a variety of landscapes, including a moss garden.

Other than the above,  Nara Park is dotted with various historical monuments, stone lanterns, and stone torii gates. This creates and culturally rich atmosphere. Nort far from the park you will also find Mt. Kasuga Primeval Forest , an amazing green oasis to spend time relaxing.

Finally, if you have time left, it is worth paying a visit to Nara National Museum  ( opening hours ). The museum opened its doors in 1889. Its permanent collection includes Buddhist statues, paintings, scrolls and ceremonial objects mainly from Japan.

How to get to Nara from Kyoto by public transportation : You can easily reach Nara from Kyoto via the Nara Line . This website explains how to plan your trip from Kyoto. The journey takes approximately 50 minutes and is covered by Japan Rail Pass.

Having a tasty lunch before leaving for Osaka

Around lunchtime, we stopped for a quick lunch at Mizuya Chaya restaurant, followed by mochi at Nakatanidou . We then took the train from Nara to Osaka.

Tip: spend a night in Nara if you can

Visiting most sights above makes a perfect Nara half day itinerary. However, you will probably not have time to visit the Museum or Mt. Kasuga primeval Forest. For this reason, I strongly recommend spending a day in Nara with an overnight at a local accommodation. Some of the best places to stay in Nara include:

• Daiwa Roynet Hotel
• Komachi Gueshouse
• Onyado Nono with access to hot springs
• Hotel New Wakasa

Second stop: Osaka (14:00-22:00)

A few facts about osaka.

The city’s history can be traced back to ancient times when it was known as Naniwa. In the Yayoi period (300 BC to 300 AD) , the area was a key point for rice trade and a hub for cultural exchange.

In the Asuka and Nara periods (592-794) , Naniwa served as the first permanent capital of Japan. The city played a pivotal role in the early development of the Japanese state and Buddhism.

During Azuchi-Momoyama period (1568-1600) , the city gained military strength. The city’s landmark, Osaka Castle was constructed by powerful warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi in the late 16th century. This marked the city’s emergence as a military and political center. Toyotomi Hideyoshi played an important role in the unification of Japan. The Castle became a symbol of his power and a center for political and cultural activities.

During the Edo pediod (1603-1868) , Osaka continued to thrive as a commercial and economic hub. The city became known as “the kitchen of the nation” due to its role in rice trade and distribution. Trade flourished and the city developed a distinctive merchant culture. The areas of Dotonbori and Kuromon Ichiba Market have their roots in this period and remain vibrant commercial districts today (more on them below).

With the Meiji Restoration in 1868 , Japan underwent rapid modernization. Osaka played a crucial role in industrialization and became a major center for commerce and manufacturing. The city continued to grow economically in the following decades and developed a distinct entrepreneurial spirit. It was a key player in Japan’s economic boom during the late 19th and early 20th centuries .

The city suffered damage during World War II , but the post-war period saw remarkable reconstruction and economic recovery. The city became a major financial and industrial center. In 1970 , it hosted the World Exposition and demonstrated the technological advancement of Japan to the world. 

Today , the city is a dynamic metropolis known for its modernity, vibrant culture, and economic importance. It continues to be an important center for commerce, industry, and tourism. 

Visiting Osaka Castle: the absolute highlight

When people ask me what to see, then Osaka Castle ( opening hours ) is a must-see. 

How to get to Osaka Castle : In this day trip, you arrive to Osaka station from Nara. You can use your Japan Rail Pass again to take the Loop Line. You need to get off at Ōsakajōkōen Station. The Castle is a short walk from there.

The castle’s construction started in 1583 on the former site of the Ishiyama Honganji Temple. Oda Nobunaga (head of the powerful Oda clan) had destroyed that temple thirteen years earlier. War lord Toyotomi Hideyoshi wanted the castle to become the center of unified Japan under his rule. It was the largest castle at the time. However, a few years after Hideyoshi’s death, Tokugawa troops destroyed it and terminated the Toyotomi lineage in 1615.

Tokugawa Hidetada rebuilt Osaka Castle in the 1620s. However, lightning struck its main castle tower win 1665 and burned it down.

It was not until 1931 that the present metal and concrete reconstruction of the castle tower appeared. During the Second World War it managed to escape the wide air raids. Major repair works added to the castle’s glamor in 1997.

The castle tower is now entirely modern on the inside. It even features an elevator for easier accessibility. It houses an informative museum about the castle’s history and Toyotomi Hideyoshi. From the castle you also get to enjoy panoramic views of the city. I can safely say that the Castle is totally worth including in your itinerary for Osaka.

Dotonbori beyond the neon lights

The castle may dominate, but there are many more things to see in Osaka. A short bus ride from the castle brought us to Nanba district (Google Maps will show you the best route and bus). A few minutes later we reached Dotonbori . This bustling district is famous for its vibrant nightlife, entertainment options, and iconic neon lights. Some of the best things to do in Dotonbori include:

• See the Glico Running Man sign . The sign is a large electronic display showing a runner crossing a finishing line, promoting the Glico confectionery company. It overlooks the Dotonbori Canal and is a popular meeting point.
• Try typical dotonbori street food : Osaka is actually considered the food capital of Japan. The streets of Dotonbori are lined with many different restaurants serving Osaka’s famous street food. I highly recommend takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancake), and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers).

• Attend a traditional Japanese show at Minami-za Kabuki Theater . It is one of the oldest traditional theaters in Osaka. It hosts kabuki performances, a classical Japanese dance-drama form. You can check their performance calendar here .
• Shop till you drop at Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade . Adjacent to Dotonbori night market you will find this bustling retail district with a wide variety of shops, boutiques, and department stores.

• Have a spiritual break at Hozen-ji Temple . The temple is tucked away in a small alley and offers a good chance to escape the crowds. The temple is known for its moss-covered Buddhist statues and the traditional practice of sprinkling water on the deity.

• Take a canal cruise : this is especially fun at night when all neon lights are on.

If you only spend a few hours in Osaka, you will probably have to prioritize by picking 2-3 activities from the above list.

An impressive temple complex

A bit to the south of Dotonbori you will find Shitennoji Temple . This is a famed Buddhist temple built in 593 and it features a 5-story pagoda, statues and ponds with turtles.

How to get to Shinennoji temple from Dōtonbori : you can either walk for 30 minutes, or take the metro ( Sennichimae Line to Tanimachi station, then switch to Tanimachi Line to Shotennoji mae station).

Experiencing the culinary scene of Osaka

A 10-minute walk from Shitennoji temple will bring you to Shinsekai shopping district . This is a pleasant area to walk around and try more typical food in Osaka. The nearby Keitakuen Garden is also worth a visit if you have time.

Other things to do in Osaka

If you make this a whole day trip to Osaka, you can also check the Abeno Harukas skyscraper ( opening hours ) for nice views of the city and also Kaiyukan Aquarium  ( opening hours ).

How to get from Nara to Osaka by public transportation

You can reach the city from Nara via the Yamatoji train line to Osaka station. The journey takes 50 minutes and is covered by the Japan Rail Pass. Upon arrival, you can use the extensive metro and bus network with your IC card to move around the city.

How to get from Kyoto to Osaka

Tokaido-Sanyo line connects Shin Osaka station and Kyoto station and is covered by Japan Rail Pass. The journey takes 25 minutes. This is the train we took to head back to Kyoto . A long but very memorable day was over. 

If you are based in the city instead, Kyoto and Nara make two perfect day trips from Osaka. In my full Japan itinerary , I give you a few more ideas about other areas to explore from the city.

• The best time to travel to Osaka is in spring or mid autumn. The weather will be pleasant enough and you have a lower chance of typhoons disrupting your plans.
• I realize my (fast) pace is not for everyone. For this reason, I recommend spending more than half a day in Osaka to see its sights at a more relaxed pace.
• I highly recommend Ryokan Suzuran as a great and affordable place to spend the night.
• Some more of the best accommodations in Osaka are Waqoo Shitaderamachi and The Boly (with excellent city views).

How to plan a 2 week Japan itinerary starting in Osaka

• Osaka (1 day)
• Nara (1 day)
• Kyoto (4 days)
• Tokyo  (4 days) + day trip to Nikko
• Takayama , Shirakawa-go and Kamikochi (3 days)
• Kanazawa (1 day)
• Back to the city to fly out of the country

Are Nara and Osaka worth visiting?

Nara and Osaka are very close to each other but have a very different character. Both cities are totally worth a day trip from Kyoto , and are unmissable places in a complete Japan itinerary .

Related Japan itineraries

Japan – The ultimate day trip from Tokyo to Nikko

Japan – Best things to do in Takayama, a must in Central Japan

Japan – The ultimate Japan 4 week itinerary to amaze yourself

Japan – The perfect day trip to the island of Miyajima

Japan – The perfect day trip from Takayama to Shirakawa Go

Japan – The most complete 4-day Tokyo itinerary

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Japan – The best day trip to Nara and Osaka from Kyoto

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Disclosure: Throughout this article you will find handy links of services and products that can be of use to you while planning your own trip. They are often affiliate links. This means that I will get a small commission if you decide to book/purchase anything through these links. This is at no extra cost to you, but it helps run this website. Thank you in advance for your support!

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Hi there, my name is Panos and I live and breathe for traveling! I have visited more than 55 countries so far and aim to discover them all! In my eyes, traveling is not a lifestyle item, but a way to learn and broaden one’s horizons. My philosophy is that, if you plan well, you can discover new places in a more relaxed way without spending a fortune. Being a natural-born travel planning consultant, I love making amazing trips accessible to everyone. I have done tons of on-the-ground research before each trip, and have documented my journeys in detail.

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Home » Travel » Destinations » Nara Day Trip Itinerary: The Magical Deer City of Japan

Nara Day Trip Itinerary: The Magical Deer City of Japan

When people ask me about the must see places in Japan, I always recommend a Nara day trip. With eight UNESCO World Heritage sites, roaming deer, and a stunning Japanese garden, you won’t regret spending one day in Nara!

Once an ancient capital of Japan, Nara is home to some of the country’s most important cultural places, including the world’s largest wooden structure. Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines dot the landscape, and sacred deer wander the city’s green spaces.

Taking a Nara day trip feels like stepping back through time. In fact, many Japanese travelers wear traditional yukata as they explore the city.

Luckily, modern conveniences like the Shinkansen bullet train make it possible to see Nara in one day! Visitors coming from Kyoto or Osaka will have the most time to spend in the city, but it’s also possible to do a short day trip from Tokyo.

This post contains affiliate links. For more information, click here .

Table of Contents

— Taking a Nara Day Trip from Kyoto — Taking a Nara Day Trip from Osaka — Taking a Nara Day Trip from Tokyo — Getting Around Nara — 1 Day Nara Itinerary — One Day in Nara Itinerary Map

Taking a Nara Day Trip from Kyoto

Nara is the most popular day trip from Kyoto , and there are two train operators for lines running between Kyoto and Nara: JR West and Kintetsu Railways.

JR Nara Line

Japan Rail Pass holders can take the JR Nara line from Kyoto Station to JR Nara station. Local lines run about three times an hour, and the journey takes about 70 minutes.

There are also the Miyakoji Kaisoku express trains that travel from Kyoto to Nara in 45 minutes. However, they don’t start running until after 9:30am. You could take the first rapid line service from Kyoto to Nara station and arrive by 10:20am.

However, for this 1 day Nara itinerary, you’ll want to arrive in Nara no later than 9:30am. Otherwise, you will need to cut your trip short.

Kintetsu Railways

There are several Kintetsu train options from Kyoto Station to Kintetsu-Nara Station.

The fastest option is the Kintetsu-Limited Express, which runs twice an hour and takes 35 minutes. However, you must have a seat reservation for Limited Express trains, so you need to buy a ticket at the machine or counter beforehand (no using an IC card).

Alternatively, the Kintetsu-Kyoto local line takes 45 minutes, with some trains running directly to Nara.

You’ll need to take care when traveling on the Kintetsu lines, as some trains require a transfer at Yamato-Saidaiji Station before continuing on to the Nara line.

Here are some very detailed instructions on how to use the Kintetsu machines to purchase tickets.

Regardless of which train operator you choose, you can get to the heart of Nara Park from Kyoto in just over an hour. You’ll have plenty of time for exploring Nara in one day.

RELATED: 12 Essential Things to Avoid in Japan While Traveling

Taking a Nara Day Trip from Osaka

Osaka may seem far away, but you can get from Osaka to Nara in under an hour by train!

The fastest and easiest way is to take the JR Yamatoji Rapid Service from Osaka Station. It departs roughly three times an hour and takes about 55 minutes to reach JR Nara station.

This quick travel time makes spending one day in Nara a no-brainer if you’re based in Osaka.

RELATED: 23 Essential Travel Phrases Every Globetrotter Should Know

Taking a Nara Day Trip from Tokyo

If you’re determined to do a Nara day trip but aren’t staying in the Kansai area, it’s possible to get here all the way from Tokyo.

Take the Tokkaido-Sanyo Line shinkansen from either Tokyo Station or Shinagawa Station, all the way to Kyoto Station.

The Kodama and Hikari trains ( covered by JR pass ) take about 2 hours and 40 minutes to go from Tokyo to Kyoto. From Kyoto Station, take either the JR Nara line or one of the Kintetsu lines as outlined in the Kyoto transit section above.

RELATED: Tokyo Itinerary: 6 Days of Sightseeing and Hidden Gems

After all the transit and walking, it would take nearly 4 hours to reach Nara Park from Tokyo. And at more than ￥13,000 per Shinkansen ticket, this would be one expensive day trip! Thus, I wouldn’t recommend it unless you have a JR Pass .

Don’t Forget Your JR Pass!

Having a Japan Rail Pass can save you a ton of time and money when traveling around Japan. I’ve used a JR pass for two out of three Japan trips, and here’s why:

– Easy to use: Just show your pass to the gate attendant!

– Free bullet trains: Quickly travel all over Japan to maximize vacation time.

– Affordable day trips: Visit popular places like Nara, Takayama, Nikko, and more without spending a fortune!

Order your Japan Rail Pass today!

Getting Around Nara

This Nara day trip itinerary was designed to be completely walkable. However, should you need transportation, Nara is well-connected by public buses.

If you’re following this guide and arrive at JR Nara station, you might make use of the red Gurutto bus.

It runs from 9:00am-5:00pm and makes a circular route, with stops including Nara Park Prefectural Office and JR Nara Station. The fare is only ￥100, making it a cost-effective option for those who can’t/don’t want to walk to and from the JR station.

1 Day Nara Itinerary

Kofukuji temple (kōfuku-ji).

Located a few minutes’ walk from Kintetsu-Nara station, Kōfuku-ji is one of  eight structures that form the UNESCO Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara. Kōfuku-ji’s main temple was originally located in Kyoto, but it was taken apart and rebuilt in Nara when the city became Japan’s capital.

The beautiful Buddhist temple grounds house seven buildings, including the iconic five-storied pagoda that’s visible in the Nara skyline.

Visitors can enter the grounds for free, but it costs ￥800 for a ticket to the National Treasure Hall and Eastern Golden Hall.

Isuien Garden

Isuien is one of my favorite gardens in Japan. With reflecting ponds, a tea house, and gorgeous views of Mount Wakakusa, Isuien is a relaxing escape in the heart of the city.

The garden is split into front and back sections, which were each designed in different historical periods (Edo and Meiji). Stepping stones and a water wheel add a charming touch, and always make me think of Studio Ghibli films.

The ￥900 admission is money well spent, and includes access to the small pottery museum adjacent to the garden.

RELATED: Essential Guide to Hiking in Kamikochi Japan

Todaiji Temple (Tōdai-ji)

Tōdai-ji is the architectural highlight of this one day Nara itinerary. Housing the world’s largest Daibutsu (bronze Buddha statue), the Great Buddha Hall is also the world’s largest wooden structure and a must-visit place in Japan .

Approaching Tōdai-ji is a surreal experience, as the sacred Nara deer freely roam the temple grounds. It’s also hard to believe that a 1,300-year-old building could be so large and well-preserved!

Pay the ￥600 fee to enter the Great Buddha Hall ( daibutsuden ), where you’ll see the giant Buddha statue flanked by a golden Nyoirin-kannon statue. Take care not to disturb the people at prayer when you pass through the hall.

As you walk through the daibutsuden, , don’t miss the wooden scale model that shows the original Tōdai-ji temple grounds, complete with two towering pagodas.

Important things to do before your Japan trip

From packing the right clothes to brushing up on etiquette, there’s a lot to do before traveling to Japan. Use my detailed Japan travel checklist to ensure you don’t forget anything before your trip!

Save me for later!

In the spirit of Japanese tradition, use your lunch time to try some local  Japanese dishes you haven’t yet eaten on your trip. The Kansai region is best known for okonomiyaki, takoyaki, and tofu.

My personal recommendation is Mizuya Chaya, a beautiful and historic cafe within Nara Park that I discovered during my second visit to the town. Their udon and sweet matcha was outstanding, and you can choose to eat inside or outside among the deer.

If you’re feeling budget-conscious or short on time, there’s nothing wrong with getting a cheap and tasty meal from the local Lawson, Family Mart, or 7-Eleven.

Nara Park and Mt. Wakakusa

If you were hoping for more deer encounters after Tōdai-ji, you’re in for a treat. Nara Park is full of the city’s beloved animal residents, and they aren’t afraid to say hello!

Licensed street vendors sell packages of biscuits that are specially formulated and controlled for the health of the deer. If you’re shy about animal encounters, do not buy the biscuits. As soon as a deer sees you holding one in your hand, it will follow you around until it gets a snack.

I had a fun time watching tourists nervously offer biscuits to eager deer, dance away once a deer approached, and then get chased around the park until they finally dropped some treats on the ground.

It should go without saying, but under no circumstances should you feed the deer anything but the special biscuits. It’s actually a crime to do so, or to mistreat the deer in any other way.

Once you’ve finished off your pack of treats, head east on the path leading to Mount Wakakusa.

It’s a fairly easy 40 minute walk to the mountain’s peak, where you can take in panoramic views of Nara. You’ll also pass more Nara deer as you make your way upward, which adds to the peaceful atmosphere. And if you’re visiting Japan in October , you might catch some early fall foliage!

Note that the direct walking trails up Mt. Wakakusa are closed during the winter season. I ended up hiking the long way around (a more strenuous hour of steeper slopes) during my second Nara day trip, and while it was a lovely journey, you probably won’t have the time or energy to pull it off during this packed itinerary.

RELATED: 5 Day Japan Itinerary Ideas to Suit Any Travel Style

Kasuga Grand Shrine (Kasuga-Taisha)

Rounding out the day’s shrine visits is Kasuga-Taisha, another one of Nara’s UNESCO Historic Monuments and my personal favorite spot on this Nara itinerary. Kasuga Grand Shrine is most famous for its thousands of stone and bronze lanterns that line the walkways and fill the corridors.

Admission to the temple grounds and main offering hall is free, while it’s ￥600 to walk the inner area and main sanctuary.

The surrounding primeval forest makes visiting Kasuga-Taisha a truly magical experience that cannot be missed on a Nara day trip. And if you’re wondering what to do at Nara in the spring, the cherry blossoms lining the main walkway are a must see.

Given the timing of your visit, you should get to Kasuga-Taisha a bit before golden hour. It’s ethereal to see the deer amidst the light filtering down through the tall trees.

If you’re fortunate to be here in February or August, you can witness the Man-Toro lantern lighting festivals.

There are a number of walking trails that meander through the surrounding forest area and eventually join up with the wide path that leads due west towards Nara’s town center. Take your time here–it’s the perfect place to escape the crowds after a long day.

Higashimuki Shopping Arcade

I’m not much of a souvenir shopper, but I can’t resist a good Japanese shopping arcade. Whether you’re in the market for coin purses, origami paper, or mochi, Higashimuki has plenty of shops and restaurants to please everyone.

Best of all, Higashimuki is only a short walk away from the Kintetsu-Nara station. You won’t have far to go if you do decide to splurge on a bag of Japanese goodies.

That brings us to the end of the itinerary! As you head back towards the train stations, I suggest stopping at Melon de Melon , a tiny little bakery that sells insanely delicious melon pan in all sorts of flavors.

Guided Tours of Nara

With so much to see and do in a day, I recommend booking a local guide to show you Nara’s highlights and hidden gems! Here are a few options from my favorite tour providers:

• Customized Walking Tour of Ancient Nara
• Half Day Small Group Walking Tour of Nara

Have More Than One Day in Nara?

If you aren’t just doing a Nara day trip, here are a few more places you should add to your itinerary.

• Nara National Museum: Houses a number of permanent and rotating collections of Japanese National Treasures, artworks, and cultural artifacts, with English displays and audio guides available.
• Yakushi-ji Temple: Part of Nara’s UNESCO Heritage Monuments, this Buddhist temple is one of Japan’s oldest and has two beautiful three-story pagodas.
• Horyu-ji Temple: Located on the western side of Nara, Horyu-ji’s pagoda is said to be the world’s oldest wooden building.

If you’re spending the night in Nara, I suggest staying near Nara Station . It’s centrally located, and you’ll easily be able to catch an early train from the city to your next destination.

My Favorite Japan Travel Planning Books

These books win my travel blogger Seal of Approval for vacation planning:

• Lonely Planet Japan
• Cool Japan Guide: Fun in the Land of Manga, Lucky Cats and Ramen
• Super Cheap Japan: Budget Travel in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Hiroshima and Surrounding Areas

Nara Day Trip Map

Click here to view the full interactive map!

Have you spent 1 day in Nara? Is there anything you’d add to this list? Let me know in the comments section!

6 thoughts on “Nara Day Trip Itinerary: The Magical Deer City of Japan”

Wow! This sounds like an incredible place! I must admit I’d never heard of it until now but I’d LOVE to meet those adorable deer. Definitely adding this to my must visit list!

You won’t regret it! I only wish I had more than one day to spend in Nara last time I was in Japan.

Hi, cannot find the booking information. We are two adults. We would like to book it from Kyoto between November 4 through the 6th. It sounds very exiting Regards Cecilia

Hello Ceciia! Unfortunately I only provide written itineraries. I’m not a tour guide or travel agent. However, Get Your Guide has several Nara guided tours available on the dates you’re traveling!

What hours is the park open? I would like to stay overnight, but is it worth it? TIA

Hi Kay, the term “Nara Park” is a bit confusing–it’s simply the name of the large green space with temples that makes up most of Nara. There are no gates, opening hours, etc. for walking around the park itself, so if you stayed overnight (which I would recommend if you have time in your itinerary) you could walk around in the early morning when there are no crowds. The main temples like Todai-ji and Kasuga Taisha open quite early in the morning as well, so you can have them mostly to yourself!

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A Day Trip to Nara from Kyoto or Osaka: Meet the Sacred Deer of Nara Park

Read on for why Nara is the best day trip destination for anyone headed to Kyoto or Osaka .

You have no idea the restraint it took to not make a deer-related pun in the title of this article! “Oh deer” and “deerie me” definitely nearly made the cut, but I managed to stop myself. Nara in Japan is famous for its population of wild deer that roam freely around its sprawling park – the deer are thought to be messengers of Shinto gods and over the years have been “taught” to politely bow for food from humans. But that’s not all – Nara is also home to beautiful shrines and temples that have stood the test of time, and are wonderful additions to your Nara day trip itinerary.

Plannin a day trip to Nara from Osaka or Kyoto ? Read on for how to get to Nara, what to see in 1 day and how to interact responsibly with the sacred deer of Nara Park!

How to get from Osaka to Nara

It takes less than an hour to travel from Osaka to Nara park by train, and there are multiple trains to choose from every day. The best way to get there is via the Kintetsu Railway (not covered by your JR Pass) – depending on which station you hop on from in Osaka, you can choose from the limited express, rapid express, express, semi-express, suburban semi-express or local. Click here for the Kintetsu network map.

If you want to take the JR line from Osaka to Nara, head to Osaka Station and hop on the Yamatoji Line towards Nara. Click here to check train schedules – set “Osaka” as the departure station, and “Nara” as the arrival station. It will take approximately 50 minutes to get to Nara.

The Kintetsu-Nara station is slightly closer to Nara Park than the JR Nara Station and it will take you around 10-20 minutes to walk to Nara Park.

Related article: Click here to read my 1 day guide to Osaka!

How to get from Kyoto to Nara

Nara is equally easy to get to from Kyoto. You can take the Kintetsu Railway from Kyoto Station (again, not covered by your JR Pass), click here for train timings. The journey to Nara from Kyoto will take between 35-50 minutes depending on whether you hop on the limited express or rapid express train.

If you want to take the JR line, head to Kyoto Station and hop on the Miyakoji Rapid Service which will take you approximately 45 minutes to travel from Kyoto to Nara by train. Click here to check train schedules – set “Kyoto” as the departure station, and “Nara” as the arrival station.

If you are visiting Nara in 2022 you might even get the chance to try out this new luxury sightseeing train set to run between Osaka, Nara and Kyoto.

Related article: Also heading to Kyoto? Click here to read my 3 day guide to Kyoto and its world heritage treasures!

Should I visit Nara from Osaka or Kyoto?

To be honest, it doesn’t make a massive difference. It takes approximately the same amount of time, and the frequency of trains is comparable. Nara is a fantastic day trip destination from Osaka or Kyoto because it is easy to get to, offers a different array of things to see and do from metropolitan Osaka and imperial Kyoto, and is small enough that you can get around easily on foot.

Where to stay in Osaka

Your best bet for places to stay in Osaka is along the JR Osaka Loop line that services central Osaka. From here, there are easy connections to Kansai International Airport, Kyoto, or Nara. We stayed at a small Airbnb apartment just minutes away from Tsuruhashi JR station along the Osaka Loop line. However, Japan has since cracked down on Airbnb, so your best bet is to also check Booking.com for highly rated hotels in Osaka. click here to check current rates at highly rated hotels in Osaka!

Where to stay in Kyoto

If you are planning a day trip from Kyoto to Nara then I recommend staying in the Shimogyo Ward , relatively close to Kyoto Station. From there, it was an easy 10 minute stroll to downtown Kyoto, the Kamo river, the Gion District and Nishiki Market. It was also between 2 subway stops and multiple bus terminals. Kaede Guesthouse is a clean and cozy place to stay and offers a range of different accommodation options from private double rooms with ensuite bathrooms to dormitory rooms. The decor is very simple, with plenty of clean lines and wooden features. Click here to check current rates at Kaede Guesthouse or click here for other highly rated hotels in Kyoto!

Things to see in Nara in 1 day

Nara can easily be explored on foot if you are planning a day trip from Kyoto or Osaka. The wild deer are there all year round, but the so-called best time of year to visit Nara depends on what you’re looking for: you can spot cherry blossoms in spring from March to May (the sakura season is fleeting and changes each year), the summer months from June to August offer lush, green mountaintops, the autumn months from September to November offer vibrant fall foliage and winter is typically much quieter if you want to get away from the crowds. Regardless of when you visit Nara, here are some of the best places to visit in Nara if you only have 1 day to explore!

1. Nara Park

Nara Deer Park is one of the top attractions in Nara and a breezy 10-20 minute stroll away from the Kintetsu-Nara and JR Nara train stations. Hundreds of deer roam freely around, sleeping, hanging out, gossiping and waiting for tourists to feed them. There are street venders all around the park selling “deer crackers” – 150 Yen for 10 crackers, so that you can approach the deer and give them a snack.

The deer in Nara are all very used to being fed, and will bow their heads when you hold food out in your hand – once they’ve bowed, they expect their treat so don’t hide or withdraw the food! It’s not uncommon for deer to chase people around for food or even nudge semi-enthusiastically/aggressively, so be prepared for a feeding frenzy.

Just as you would with any wild animal, don’t pester them, make loud noises, use your camera flash or try to put your arms around the deer. Or better yet, stand next to them awkwardly like a deer in headlights (told you I’d get that deer pun in).

Though the deer are considered sacred, unfortunately the population is on the up and up and the government has approved a culling of deer living outside of the park.

The long-term effects of tourism on the deer population and behaviour are unclear, so it’s worth bearing that in mind when you travel to Nara.

2. Kofuku-ji Temple

Kofuku-ji is a Buddhist temple on the outskirts of Nara Park.

It’s worth a quick visit for a wander around the grounds (free entry), or entry will cost 600 Yen if you want to check out the Eastern Golden Hall and Kofuku-ji National Treasure Hall.

3. Himuro Shrine

Himuro Shrine is a small 8th century shrine just steps away from Kofuku-ji Temple. Though it’s small, it has several cherry blossom trees and is a popular photography spot during sakura season. It is also perfectly framed by a bright orange torii gate at its entrance. Don’t leave it off your Nara itinerary!

4. Nandai-mon Gate and Todai-ji Museum

The “Great South Gate” is the main gate leading to Todai-ji, and is held up by 18 giant wooden pillars, forming one of the largest temple entrance gates in Japan.

As you walk through the gate, the Todai-ji Museum will be on your left. If you need a tea and toilet break, this is where you should stop, before taking a quick tour around the museum itself for rotating exhibitions of treasures from the temple, including Buddhist statues and religious art. The combined ticket for Todai-ji Museum and Todai-ji Temple costs 800 Yen.

5. Todai-ji Temple

Todai-ji is Nara’s most popular attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site . The 8th century temple has been rebuilt after being destroyed by fire twice, and now houses a massive bronze seated Buddha statue weighing 500 tonnes.

Don’t skip the statue of Komoku-ten, the Guardian King of the South, miniature replicas of the temple itself, and wooden beam with a hole in it. People crawl through the hole because it is thought to be the equivalent to the size of the Buddha statue’s nostril, and will bring you good fortune.

On the way out of the temple, you’ll find the small Kagamiike mirror lake and Todai-ji bell. Exploring Todai-ji is one of the best things to do in Nara.

Those are some of the main sights to visit within a day in Nara. As it was extremely rainy while we were there, we chose to head back to Osaka instead of venturing onwards; if you’re ambitious and want to see more of Nara, check out Tamukeyama Hachiman-gu Shrine, Mizuya Shrine, or hike 15-30 minutes up to Mount Wakakusa, a viewpoint over the city of Nara where you will also find cherry blossom trees (during spring), wide open plains and wild deer. Mount Wakakusa is closed between December and March.

Hotel recommendations: In Osaka, choose a hotel close to one of the JR Osaka Loop line stations for maximum convenience. Click here to see current rates at highly rated hotels in Osaka! In Kyoto, stay in the Shimogyo Ward near Kyoto Tower. Click here to check current rates at highly rated accommodation in Shimogyo Ward or click here for other highly rated hotels in Kyoto!

Visiting Japan? You might also enjoy these guides:

• Heading to Osaka?   Read my quick guide to spending 1 day in Osaka
• And don’t miss my guide to the best things to do in Kyoto
• Need more travel inspiration? Here are 30 stunning travel photos of Kyoto

A Nara day trip from Osaka or Kyoto is one of the best things to do in Japan. Do you have plans to visit Japan and will Nara be on your itinerary? Let me know if you’ve heard about this beautiful city and its furry inhabitants in the comments section below!

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I absolutely LOVE Asian temples. I spent some time in China and visited a Buddhist monastery and it was one of the coolest things I have ever done.

The temple styles vary across Asian culture too! The ones in Southeast Asia are stunning and often gilded. Just stunning!

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16 Fun Things to do in Nara – Day trip itinerary

By Author Toni Broome

Posted on Published: October 2, 2022  - Last updated: March 20, 2023

Nara is an ideal destination to visit on a day trip from nearby cities such as Kyoto and Osaka. When you see our list of top things to do in Nara you might equally be tempted to stay for a few days and delve a little deeper into this heritage city that was once the capital of Japan.

With a population of around 400,000 people, Nara couldn’t be called a small city but its narrow lanes, wide open green spaces, a plethora of heritage sites and the odd deer that nudges you aside if you are blocking the path make it a refreshing change after the hustle and bustle of the major cities.

Table of Contents

Our self-guided walking tour of Nara

1. nara park, 2. get to know the local deer, 3. sarusawa-ike pond, 4. kōfuku-ji, 5. kasuga-taisha, 6. nandaimon, the great south gate to todaiji, 7. todaiji and the great buddha, 8. mount wakakusa (wakakusayama), 9. naramachi, 11. nara national museum, 12. festivals and events, 13. explore deeper with a local guide, 14. nara visitors centre, 15. zuto pyramid, 16. try the local sake, best way to get to nara from kyoto, best way to get to nara from osaka, where to stay in nara.

In this guide you’ll find our top things to do in Nara and a bit about why they make our highlights list, we’ve also put together this handy map to help you fit all the best bits into the time you have available without too much backtracking or wasted time.

It’s a Google map so you can save it to your phone and refer to it as you go. We like to have pocket wifi or a local SIM card when travelling in Japan to help out with the language barrier and for accessing maps but you should be able to save this one offline or even print a good enough version if you prefer to work that way.

Sometimes you can pick up an English paper map at the train station or the information centre but we’ve also been there when the basket is empty so it’s handy to have one of your own bookmarked and ready to go.

Our top 16 things to do in central Nara

One of the most striking things about the area is the enormous 502-hectare park running through central Nara at the foot of Mount Wakakusa. The park was established in 1880 making it one of the oldest in Japan and all this open green space plays a significant part in making a day trip to Nara feel very relaxed.

Throughout Nara park and as you wander through the grounds of the many temples and shrines or even along the quieter shopping streets you can expect to see a large number of deer. There are said to be around 1300 of these Sika deer living in Nara Park and they are free to wander up the adjacent mountain and into the forest.

They are super cute and inquisitive but are still wild animals and not domesticated. In Japan, some consider them to be messengers of the gods and although they lost their official ‘sacred’ status in the mid-20th century they are still well protected as National Treasures.

Packs of ‘deer crackers’ are sold along the tourist routes in the city, use your own judgement about whether you want to feed the deer or not. There is no tradition or blessing associated with feeding them crackers and there is plenty of natural food available for them in the park. An occasional treat isn’t likely to be a problem but an excess of processed flour from an ever-increasing flow of tourists is taking a toll on their health.

With or without crackers you will see plenty of deer as you transit around between the attractions and through the park. This one snuck up to see what I was up to as I was watching his friends in the distance grazing quietly under the trees.

As you walk up Sanjo-dori from the JR station towards Nara Park you will come to the Sarusawa-Ike Pond. The pond has a long history having been dug in the year 749 within the grounds of Kōfuku-Ji temple. It’s not large but you can take a short stroll around it beneath the fluttering willow trees and sakura bloom in the spring season.

There is a Starbucks Coffee here that enjoys this view of the multi-tiered pagoda above the lake. Even if you don’t normally seek out Starbucks this one might be worth a stop, they have a strong local following in Japan with many of their stores making an effort to blend into the traditional landscape.

This one takes in the borrowed scenery of one of the most important temples in Nara but if you are a Starbucks fan you might also want to check out some of these ones not too far away in Kyoto city and Uji that are also quite different.

This large temple complex is often one of the first stops on a trip to the city but if you are pushed for time, or arriving a bit later in the day you may choose to leave it until you are headed back to the station as the temple grounds don’t have closing hours.

The temple was founded in 669 in Kyoto. It was dismantled and moved to this site in Nara in 710 when it was the newly formed capital of Japan. Kōfuku-Ji was one of the 4 great temples of the Nara Period and one of 7 great temples in Nara during the Heian Period when Japan was ruled from Kyoto. At its most influential, Kōfuku Ji comprised over 150 buildings and while few of those remain today, the prestige of the temple is still evident.

The 5-storied pagoda is particularly beautiful but over the next few months you may find it is covered or partially covered as it is under renovation until 2023. A lot of its charm comes from the patina of natural wood, it was last restored in 1426 so I imagine it’s going to be quite an undertaking to protect it for the next 500+ years without losing that incredible character. When it’s not under renovation there are a few days a year when it is open to the public to see inside.

Another distinctive building that remains in this temple complex is the Octagonal Hall, this one is also occasionally opened to the public during the year to see the collection of treasures inside. We have been lucky enough to be in the city when this one was open and will usually pay the small entry fee when we come across these special openings.

The latest addition to the temple complex was completed and consecrated in 2018 and is a re-creation both in scale and architectural style of the earlier Central Golden Hall built between 710 and 714. The hall burned to the ground 7 times over the years, most recently in the early 1700’s so it’s a bit surreal walking through the middle of the complex now with this impressive building complete again and looking like it’s always been there but knowing it didn’t exist on our first couple of visits to Nara.

This shrine has an impressive history dating back to the Nara Period and is best known today for its lanterns. There are many rooms and walkways throughout the shrine grounds decorated with bronze lanterns then along the approach to the shrine as you wind your way through the park it is lined with stone lanterns of all sizes and shapes, most of them have been donated to the temple and many are very old.

Kasuga shrine is open from 6 am until 6 pm with a special night opening with lanterns lit both inside the shrine gates and throughout the park during festivals like Mantoro and Setsubun. There is a darkened room with lanterns during the rest of the year too but seeing the whole place lit up with the crowds and festival atmosphere is worth planning your trip around if you have the chance.

Another special time to visit this shrine is in early May when all the wisteria trees are in bloom with their weeping purple flowers celebrated as a symbol of the shrine.

Japanese Buddhist temples face south so the Nandaimon , or the Great Southern Gate is the main entrance to Todai-ji. The huge wooden structure is over 25 metres high, the tallest temple gate in Japan and dates back to the 12th century. Even a big crowd is dwarfed by the scale.

At the top of this article is a photo of the Chu-mon or middle gate to Todai-ji. It doesn’t have the size or historical importance of Nandai-mon but it is also quite dramatic. As you enter or leave you can explore the shopping street beyond that offers some delicious snack food and look back at the view of Todai-ji across the lake.

Todai-ji is one of Japan’s most important historical temples. When it was built in 752 it was the head temple of all the provincial temples in Japan and held immense power through political and spiritual unity during the Nara Period.

The main hall is one of the largest wooden buildings in the world and houses a 15-metre bronze seated Buddha representing Vairocana with Boddhisatva statues positioned on either side. It seems bigger in person than it generally appears in photos because the ceiling beams and everything else in the great hall is also on a massive scale.

There are a few unique things to see and do while you are visiting the temple in addition to the usual activities like writing your wish or blessing on the decorative ema votive tablet, lighting incense, getting your fortune told or adding a stamp to your temple book (called goshuin ). This is the only place that I know where you can take a shortcut to enlightenment in the next life by crawling through Buddha’s nostril or receive healing by reaching out to an 18th-century wooden carving of an Arhat (one of Buddha’s disciples).

Mount Wakakusa or Wakakusayama, Yama means a mountain in Japanese, is a large grassed hillside in Nara city. Positioned behind Todai-ji and Kasuga Shrine it stands 350 metres tall and on the left-hand side, when looking at it from the city and temples, you will find a walking path.

It takes about 15 minutes to reach the plateau and another 25 minutes to reach the peak. If you just want the expansive views out over the city below you really don’t need to go past the plateau. The hillside is mostly grass so you have an unobstructed view from here, continuing on up the peak is optional for the bragging rights.

Many cherry trees are planted around the edge of the slope and add to the picturesque view in early April. The mountain is also the site of several festival events throughout the year.

Naramachi, or Nara town, is the old merchant district in Nara where you will still see the old traditional wooden houses and warehouses in the narrow lanes. Many have been restored into storefronts and there are a few museums too including Naramachi Karakuri Omochakan (the toy museum), Nara Kogeikan (an arts and craft museum) and Naramachi Shiryokan which displays many quirky artifacts that represent the history of the town.

The temple of Gangoji is in the Naramachi area along with the Harushika Sake Brewery and the Imanishike Shoin Residence that was historically the home of a senior official from Kōfuku-ji temple but now is a lovely space to enjoy green tea and traditional sweets inside or in the garden.

Isuien (Isui-En) is a Japanese-style garden located between Kōfuku-ji and Todai-ji, about a 10-minute walk from each. It is open between 9.30 am and 4.30 pm with an entry fee of Y1200.

Key features of the gardens are the ponds fed by the Yoshikigawa river and the borrowed scenery of the Todai-ji Nandaimon Gate and Mount Wakakusayama beyond that. The gardens are comprised of a smaller front garden that dates back to the 17th century and a rear garden that was added later by a wealthy merchant.

The back garden features several tea houses and a small museum with a collection of the family’s curated collection of artworks from China and Korea. Like all Japanese gardens, Isuien is designed to be enjoyed in all seasons but it is especially pretty when autumn leaves are in full colour around the ponds.

Many temples in the area have treasure houses with impressive collections but the Nara National Museum is a large-scale museum spread across multiple halls and galleries with an extensive permanent collection and frequent visiting exhibitions. It began in 1889 as the Imperial Museum of Nara before opening to the public in 1895. Today it has an important role in restoring and preserving Buddhist art and archives in a way that makes them accessible to the public.

The museum is open from 9.30 am until 5 pm and entry is Y700 with some limited-time exhibits having additional entry fees. There are a few special opening days each year such as during Setsubun in February when entry to the main halls is free to the public.

While we regularly add local festivals and events to our Japan itinerary we particularly enjoy the ones hosted in smaller cities like Nara. If you are in town at the right time we would recommend visiting for Setsubun, Mantoro or the Wakakua Yamayako festival.

During Setsubun on the 3rd of February , events are happening all over town. Major events take place in the Kōfuku-Ji temple grounds with demons, performers and airborne soybeans but don’t overlook some of the smaller temples. Gangoji Temple is a personal favourite that is located a little off the main tourist flow in the older part of town so it’s got a lovely local feel.

You will also want to plan to stay for dinner and into the evening during Setsubun as the 3000 stone and bronze lanterns throughout Nara park and the shrine are all lit up which is a stunning sight. They still use candles so it’s a full-time and fairly athletic job for those clambering up the larger lanterns to keep them lit throughout the evening.

The Mantoro festival in August is your other opportunity to see the lanterns alight.

If your visit is earlier in the year the Wakakusa Yamayaki festival in January is centred around Mount Wakakusa behind the Todai-Ji temple. During the early evening ceremony the ceremony sets the hillside alight and while the controlled fires burn keep an eye on the sky for the fireworks display. While the ceremony takes place on the mountain the full effect is best observed from a distance.

While we like to explore independently and at our own pace we have taken several food tours with Magical Trip in various cities and they have all used local guides who know the area well and love to share their city with visitors. If you are interested you can read more about our tour with them in Gion (Kyoto) here.

The Magical Trip tour in Nara takes in the major sites and helps you get a feel for the area if your time is limited. Lunch is included at a location that has been selected for its use of locally grown produce which is something we like to support.

Although we like to have our key highlights for the day sorted before we head out for the day, a tourist information centre can be really helpful for updates on any temporary closures, maps, and tourist deals and in the case of the Nara Vistors Centre , it does go above and beyond.

At the centre, they run cultural activities like teaching you how to fold an origami souvenir or you can attend an introductory green tea ceremony . They will write your name for you in Kanji, the Japanese alphabet if you ask or you can try your hand at calligraphy.

They are located adjacent to Nara Park which makes the Nara Visitors Centre Inn with either Western or Japanese style rooms, particularly good value. We haven’t stayed here yet but we have a couple of nights planned on our next visit and will add a full review after that.

In addition to being the name of both the city and the prefecture, the Nara period refers to an era in Japanese history. It was between 710 AD and 794 AD when Empress Genmai established the capital here, at the time called Heijo-Kyo.

Zuto is a pyramid reminiscent of those found in the Mayan empire and was built back in the Nara period predating many of the more famous landmarks in the city. While not massive in size, it’s a lesser-known artifact of the city and the age and history make it worth including if you have the time.

Nara also has a long history with sake. It is believed to have originated here in the middle of the 14th century when Priests at Shōryaku-ji temple developed a technique to make it. While every sake brewery has its secret yeast blend, Shōryaku-ji remains the only temple with a license to make the “Bodaimoto” starter .

Sake from Nara, or Narazake, is still very highly regarded for its quality and you will find a few opportunities to try it while you are in town.

One option is to head to Harushika a brewery established in 1884. It’s located in a beautiful traditionally styled wooden building and is open from 9 am until 4.30 pm. Here you can try a tasting experience for Y500 with several different sakes from the company or if it is too early in the day for you, they also have a range of sweets made with their sake.

Another option is to include a sake bar such as Nihonshu to Otsumami Chuin at the end of the day. They are a tiny sake bar located in the Naramachi area and are open from 4 pm until 10.30 pm. You can check their Instagram profile linked in their photo below, their latest post shows that days featured sake bottles and opening hours.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 日本酒とおつまみ chuin (@nihonshu.chuin)

How to get to Nara

There are two train stations close to the temples and attractions of Nara, the Nara Station operated by JR (Japan Rail) and the Kintetsu-Nara station. Both companies offer an excellent and reliable train service, the Kintetsu station is a little closer to the attractions but both are conveniently located. Choosing which is best for you will depend more on where you start from, whether you have a JR pass or other train pass to use for this trip and whether you prioritise price or time.

Both the Japan Rail and Kintetsu options depart and return to Kyoto Station.

With Kintetsu, you have the option of the limited express train which costs Y1160 and takes 34 minutes or the standard train which costs Y640 but you will need to transfer at a station along the way. The trains are frequent and the transfer is at smaller stations so it’s not difficult, it will take 50 minutes to an hour using this option.

With Japan Rail, you will take the Nara line, make sure you get the Rapid, it costs Y720 and takes 45 minutes direct. You can use your JR Pass for this if you have one.

Being an Osaka-based company the options from the city to Kintetsu-Nara are very good. If you are staying in the Namba area, which is usually our preference, the rapid express is a direct train that costs Y570 and takes 37 minutes to get to Nara.

If you want to use JR because you have a JR pass or it’s more convenient for you, it will take 48 minutes with a transfer at Kyuhoji station.

Most first-time visitors will plan for a day trip to Nara and as you can see that is a great option. We often prefer to explore closer areas on a day trip to avoid changing accommodation too often as it can use up a lot more of the day than you intend.

However, if you have the available time in your itinerary you may want to consider stopping a night in Nara so you can spend another day and see the attractions at a slower pace, get a little further out to treasures like the Hōryū-ji temple or stay to enjoy a festival in the evening. Nara has some good options for overnight visitors too.

The Nara Visitors Centre Inn is where we plan to stay on our next visit, it’s an ideal central location for such an affordable option. It’s an 8-minute walk from the Kintetsu Station, 15-minutes from the JR Station and is near Kofuku-ji and Nara Park. They offer both Japanese and Western-style rooms and a lot of conveniences including a coin laundry, free WIFI and shared kitchen facilities if you want to make use of them.

If you are looking for something different, a ryokan, sole occupancy property, a major chain hotel, or something adjacent to the station you’ll find a range of Nara accommodation options to suit.

There is so much to love about Nara that we would place it very high on our list for anyone considering side trips from nearby cities like Kyoto and Osaka.

For those planning a visit please feel free to ask any questions we haven’t already covered in the comments section below. For those that have spent some time in Nara we’d be interested in your thoughts, is it one of your essential destinations on a Japan itinerary? What aspect of the city did you enjoy the most?

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