As Japan’s first permanent capital, Nara is home to an astonishing collection of ancient temples, shrines, and treasures that showcase the country’s early cultural and artistic development. Set against rolling hills and lush parks, this charming city is famous for its friendly, free-roaming deer, stunning temples, and well-preserved historical sites. It’s an easy day trip from Kyoto or Osaka, offering a tranquil escape filled with fascinating history and scenic beauty. Here’s our lowdown on the best things to do in Nara.
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Things to do in Nara
Things to Do in Nara
Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital, was established in 710 as Heijo-kyo (Citadel of Peace). Modeled after Chinese city planning, its rectangular grid layout reflected the deep influence of Chinese culture, art, and religion.
During its brief 74-year reign as Japan’s political and cultural center, Nara became the birthplace of the nation’s literature, arts, and craftsmanship. It was in this era that Japan’s first historical account, mythological chronicle, and poetry anthology, containing 4,173 poems, were written.
Buddhism, which had arrived in Japan in the 6th century alongside kanji (Chinese characters) and tea, flourished under Emperor Shomu. He envisioned Nara as the nation’s spiritual heart and built Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha, as a nexus for all Buddhist temples in Japan.
However, the peace Shomu sought to secure was short-lived. In 794, political intrigue led to the capital’s relocation to Kyoto, marking the decline of Nara’s influence. Though it lost its status, Nara remains a historical treasure trove, preserving its rich legacy of temples, shrines, and cultural heritage.
Walking through Nara feels like stepping back in time, with traditional streets, sacred deer, and grand historical structures creating a truly magical atmosphere.
Plan your itinerary carefully to make the most of your visit—there’s a lot to see, and even though Nara is smaller than Kyoto, its treasures deserve your time and attention. Here’s our opinionated list of the best things to do in Nara (in no particular order):
1. Marvel at Tōdai-ji and the Great Buddha
Tōdai-ji Temple, one of Japan’s most significant and awe-inspiring Buddhist landmarks, was conceived in the 8th century by Emperor Shomu as the spiritual headquarters of Buddhism in Japan. Completed in 752, it remained a powerful religious institution even after the Imperial Court relocated from Nara.
However, the temple endured multiple calamities over the centuries, including earthquakes, fires, and destruction during civil wars. The current complex, rebuilt in the 17th and 18th centuries, preserves only a portion of its original grandeur, yet it remains an architectural marvel.
At the heart of Tōdai-ji is the Daibutsu-den (Great Buddha Hall), one of the most monumental wooden structures in the world, standing at 48 meters (160 feet) tall. Though today’s building is two-thirds of its original size, it remains a breathtaking sight.
Inside, the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), a 15-meter (50-foot) bronze statue, radiates a sense of serenity and reverence. Originally cast in 749 after multiple failed attempts, the statue required 437 tons of bronze, 130 kg (286 lbs) of gold, and 7 tons of vegetable wax.
Over the centuries, earthquakes and fires have damaged the Daibutsu, causing it to lose its head on several occasions; the current version dates back to 1692. The statue was intended to unite the nation under Buddhism, with a grand dedication ceremony in 752 attended by the Emperor, his court, and 10,000 monks and nuns.
You can walk around the Daibutsu to admire it from different angles.
Pro Tip
Don’t miss the small hole in one of the temple’s wooden pillars—legend says squeezing through it grants enlightenment in the next life (if you’re small enough to fit!).
Entering Tōdai-ji through the Nandai-mon (Great Southern Gate) is an awe-inspiring experience. Originally destroyed by a typhoon in 962 and rebuilt in 1199, the gate is upheld by 18 towering wooden pillars, each over 18 meters (62 feet) high.
The gate houses the formidable Deva Kings, carved by the Kamakura-era sculptor Unkei, who stand guard over the temple grounds.
Beyond the Great Buddha Hall, Tōdai-ji’s complex holds several treasures. The Kaidan-in houses the Four Heavenly Guardian Kings, fierce warrior-like deities clad in armor, historically overseeing Buddhist ordinations. Ni-gatsu-do (Second Month Hall), dating back to 752, is famed for the spectacular fire and water purification rituals of the Omizutori Festival in March.
Though its Buddhist statues remain hidden, its elevated veranda offers panoramic views of Nara Park. Nearby, San-gatsu-do (Third Month Hall), built in 733, is the oldest original structure in Tōdai-ji, containing priceless Buddhist sculptures from the Nara Period, including a lacquered Fukukensaku Kannon adorned with gemstones.
Despite the centuries of destruction and rebuilding, the Tōdai-ji Temple remains a profound symbol of Japan’s Buddhist heritage. Its sheer scale, historical significance, and spiritual atmosphere make it Nara’s most essential attraction. Whether marveling at the Daibutsu, passing through the grand Nandai-mon, or exploring the temple’s quieter halls, visiting Tōdai-ji is an experience that lingers long after leaving.
Tōdai-ji Temple operates on a seasonal schedule. From April to October, the Great Buddha Hall (Daibutsu-den) is open from 07:30 to 17:30. Between November and March, the hours are 08:00 to 17:00. The entrance costs 800 JPY.
For those interested in visiting both the Great Buddha Hall and the Tōdai-ji Museum, a joint pass is available for 1,200 JPY.
2. Wander through Nara Park
No visit to Nara is complete without a stroll through Nara Park, a sprawling 660-hectare green space at the heart of the city.
Established in 1880, the park is home to some of Nara’s most treasured landmarks, including Todai-ji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and Kofuku-ji Temple, seamlessly blending nature with history. However, the park’s most famous residents are its free-roaming deer, which add to the park’s enchanting atmosphere.
Over 1,000 wild yet friendly sika deer inhabit the park, considered messengers of the Shinto gods and protected as a national treasure. These gentle creatures have become an iconic symbol of Nara, often seen bowing to visitors in anticipation of shika senbei (deer crackers), which can be purchased at stalls throughout the park.
Fun Fact
Nara’s deer were once considered sacred, and harming one was punishable by death until the 1600s!
Though generally docile, they can be quite eager—so watch out for enthusiastic nibblers!
The park’s vast lawns, winding paths, and serene ponds create a picturesque setting, particularly stunning during cherry blossom season in spring and vibrant autumn foliage.
3. Admire the lanterns of Kasuga Taisha Shrine
Nestled in the serene forest of Nara Park, Kasuga Taisha Shrine is one of Japan’s most enchanting Shinto shrines, famous for its 2,000 stone lanterns lining the moss-covered pathways and 1,000 bronze lanterns hanging within its vermilion halls.
Dedicated to the deities responsible for the protection of Nara, this sacred site exudes a mystical ambiance, especially when the lanterns are illuminated during the Mantoro Festivals in February and August, creating a breathtaking glow that transports visitors to another era.
Founded in 768, Kasuga Taisha underwent meticulous reconstruction every 20 years for centuries, in line with Shinto purification traditions. Though the practice ceased in 1863, the shrine’s current structure, dating from 1893, retains its original elegance.
After passing through the towering orange torii gate, visitors first encounter the Hai-den (Offering Hall), followed by the Naorai-den (Entertainment Hall). The highlight is the four Hon-den (Main Shrines), designated National Treasures, which stand in striking contrast to Nara’s typically dark wooden temples with their bold vermilion and green hues.
A visit to Kasuga Taisha is a step into Japan’s spiritual past, where ancient deities, flickering lanterns, and sacred deer create an atmosphere of tranquility and reverence. Whether exploring the shrine’s hidden corridors or witnessing its festivals, this is one of Nara’s most enchanting experiences.
Kasuga Taisha Shrine is open daily from 06:00–18:00 (April–September) and 06:30–17:00 (October–March). The entrance to the shrine is free, but the inner area costs 500 JPY.
4. Visit Kofuku-ji Temple
Kofuku-ji Temple’s striking Five-Story Pagoda dominates Nara’s skyline. Originally constructed in 730 by Empress Komyo, it was rebuilt in 1426 after a fire, faithfully replicating the original structure. Standing at 50 meters (164 ft), it is Japan’s second-tallest pagoda, just slightly shorter than Kyoto’s To-ji.
Nearby, down a small flight of steps, the Three-Story Pagoda, completed in 1114, captivates with its graceful lines and harmonious proportions—an elegant contrast to its taller counterpart.
While the Five-Story Pagoda draws attention, the heart of Kofuku-ji lies in the Tōkondō (Eastern Golden Hall). Rebuilt in the 15th century, it houses a magnificent statue of Yakushi Nyorai (the Medicine Buddha), flanked by the Four Heavenly Kings and Twelve Heavenly Generals. The seated figure of Yuima Koji, a lay Buddhist revered for his eloquence, symbolizes the belief that enlightenment is attainable even amid earthly desires.
Though no longer an active religious center, Kofuku-ji remains a spiritual site. Visitors often leave ema (votive plaques) with prayers for family happiness and protection. The soft glow of gold leaf and the lingering scent of incense create a deeply contemplative atmosphere.
North of the temple stands the Kokuhokan (National Treasure Museum), housing Japan’s most extensive collection of Buddhist National Treasures. Its most celebrated piece is the mesmerizing statue of Ashura, depicted with three faces and six arms—one of the Buddha’s eight guardians.
Kofuku-ji Temple in Nara is open year-round, with free access to the temple grounds 24/7. However, specific halls and the National Treasure Museum have set hours (09:00–17:00, last entry 16:45) and admission fees: 500 JPY for the Central Golden Hall, 700 JPY for the National Treasure Museum, and 300 JPY for the Eastern Golden Hall. A combined ticket for the museum and Eastern Golden Hall costs 900 JPY.
5. Stroll down Naramachi’s Historic Streets
For a taste of old Nara, head to Naramachi, a beautifully preserved district of Edo-period machiya (merchant houses). Once a bustling commercial hub, today it’s a peaceful area filled with traditional wooden townhouses, boutique shops, tea houses, and small museums.
One highlight is Nigiwai-no-Ie, an authentic machiya where you can step inside and see how merchants once lived. Another must-visit is the Nara Craft Museum, where you can admire (or buy) exquisite local handicrafts, from inkstones to Nara’s famous Akahada-yaki pottery.
6. Check out Isuien Garden and Neiraku Museum
Isuien Garden, one of Nara’s most exquisite traditional gardens, offers a serene retreat just a short walk from Tōdai-ji Temple. Its name, meaning “garden founded on water,” reflects the design’s use of the nearby Yoshikigawa River to fill its ponds.
The garden is divided into two sections: the front garden, dating back to the mid-17th century, and the rear garden, created in 1899 by a wealthy merchant. The latter is particularly stunning, using shakkei (borrowed scenery) to seamlessly incorporate the distant hills of Nara, including Mount Wakakusa, into its landscape.
Winding stone paths, koi-filled ponds, elegant teahouses, and immaculately pruned trees create a harmonious and picturesque setting.
Within the garden grounds is the Neiraku Museum, an underrated gem showcasing an impressive private collection of East Asian art. The museum features Chinese and Korean ceramics, ancient bronzeware, and exquisite Japanese lacquerware, offering insight into the region’s artistic heritage. Highlights include rare Tang and Song Dynasty ceramics and delicate tea ceremony utensils.
Isuien Garden and Neiraku Museum offer a perfect blend of nature and culture, making them a must-visit for those looking to experience Nara’s refined beauty beyond its temples and shrines.
Isuien Garden and Neiraku Museum in Nara are open from 09:30 to 16:30 (last admission at 16:00) and closed on Tuesdays, except in April, May, October, and November. They also close for maintenance from late December to mid-January and in late September. Admission is 1,200 JPY.
7. Sample Kakinoha Sushi
Kakinoha Sushi is a traditional specialty of Nara. This unique style of sushi consists of vinegared rice topped with slices of cured fish—typically mackerel or salmon—wrapped in a fragrant persimmon leaf. Unlike conventional sushi, it is not served fresh but is instead pressed and aged for a short period, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen.
The persimmon leaf, known for its natural antibacterial properties, helps preserve the sushi and imparts a subtle aroma. Historically, this method of preservation was ideal for inland regions like Nara, where fresh seafood was not readily available.
Kakinoha sushi is often enjoyed as a local delicacy and makes for a great souvenir or picnic snack. It is best eaten by unwrapping the leaf (which is not consumed) and savoring the perfectly balanced combination of tangy rice and lightly salted fish.
8. Be awed at Hōryū-ji Temple
If you have time, Hōryū-ji Temple, just 12 km (7.5 miles) from central Nara, is an absolute must. This temple is the crown jewel of classical Japanese architecture.
In the early morning, elderly locals on their way to work pause in front of the temple to pray with a devotion that younger generations often reserve for manga and puri-kura (photo stickers). Founded in 607 AD by Prince Shōtoku (573–621), Hōryū-ji houses some of the world’s oldest surviving wooden structures.
The first gate, Nandai-mon (Great South Gate), was rebuilt in 1438, making it a relatively young 500 years old. Beyond it stands Chu-mon (Middle Gate), an original structure from 607 AD. Unlike typical Japanese gates, which rely on two outer pillars for support, Chu-mon features central supporting pillars.
These columns exhibit entasis, a subtle swelling in the center, an architectural technique originating in ancient Greece that made its way to Japan. Such columns are rare and found only in 7th-century structures in Nara.
Past the gates, the Western Precinct unfolds. To the right, the Kon-dō (Main Hall), a faithful reproduction of the 7th-century original, houses priceless Buddhist statues and relics from the Asuka Period (552–645 AD).
To the left stands the Five-Story Pagoda, which was carefully disassembled during World War II to protect it from air raids before being reconstructed with its original 607 AD materials. Behind it, the Daiko-dō (Lecture Hall), initially destroyed by fire, was rebuilt in 990 AD and contains a magnificent Yakushi Nyorai (Physician of the Soul) statue, carved from a camphor tree.
Walking beyond the Daiko-dō, past the Kon-dō and Chu-mon, a left turn leads you past a pond to two modern Daihōzō-den (Great Treasure Halls). These halls house an impressive collection of Buddhist statues, sculptures, religious artifacts, and brocades.
A highlight is a miniature shrine once owned by Lady Tachibana, the mother of Empress Kōmyō. The shrine, standing about 75 cm (2.5 ft) high, enshrines a Buddha statue measuring 50 cm (20 inches) tall.
The Tōdai-mon (Great East Gate) leads to Hōryū-ji’s Eastern Precinct, where the striking Yumedono (Hall of Dreams) stands. Named for Prince Shōtoku, who meditated here, this octagonal hall remains one of the temple’s most sacred and mysterious sites.
Hōryū-ji Temple is open daily from 08:00–17:00, and entrance costs 1,500 JPY.
How to get to Nara
Traveling to Nara is quick and easy, especially from Kyoto and Osaka. With Japan’s efficient rail network, you can reach Nara comfortably in under an hour.
The most convenient and popular way to reach Nara is by Shinkansen, especially if you have a JR Pass. The JR Pass is a must if you plan to explore multiple regions in Japan—you can easily travel between major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima.
The JR Pass offers unlimited rides on eligible trains for 7, 14, or 21 days, providing unmatched convenience. Buy your JR Pass now through Klook or GetYourGuide!
From Kyoto
- Kintetsu Nara Line (Fastest Option) – The Limited Express takes 35 min, while the Rapid Express takes 45 min. It arrives at Kintetsu Nara Station, which is closer to key attractions like Nara Park and Tōdai-ji Temple.
- JR Nara Line (Best for JR Pass Users) – The Miyakoji Rapid train reaches JR Nara Station in 45 min. This is a great option if you have a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass).
From Osaka
- Kintetsu Nara Line (Fastest Option) – The Limited Express takes 35 min, while the Rapid Express takes 45 min, arriving at Kintetsu Nara Station.
- JR Yamatoji Rapid (Best for JR Pass Users) – The JR Yamatoji Rapid service reaches JR Nara Station in 50 min.
Nara is a compact and walkable city, with most major attractions—like Nara Park, Tōdai-ji Temple, and Kasuga Taisha—within a short distance of Kintetsu Nara Station and JR Nara Station.
How to get around Nara
On Foot – Walking is the best way to explore central Nara, especially the historic sites around Nara Park.
Nara City Loop Bus – Convenient for reaching farther attractions. Runs every 15 minutes from JR Nara Station and Kintetsu Nara Station.
Bicycle Rental – A great option for exploring at your own pace. Rentals are available near both stations.
Taxis – Readily available but more expensive. Best for short trips or reaching temples outside the city center.
How much time do you need in Nara?
For most travelers, a full-day trip from Kyoto or Osaka is enough to see Nara’s top highlights, including Tōdai-ji Temple, Nara Park, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and Kofuku-ji Temple. This allows time to wander through the historic district, meet the famous Nara deer, and enjoy a leisurely lunch.
If you want a deeper cultural experience, staying 1-2 nights lets you explore beyond the main sites. This includes visiting Horyu-ji Temple, Japan’s oldest surviving Buddhist temple, or experiencing Nara’s serene side at dawn and dusk when the crowds thin out.
For a quick visit, half a day covers the essentials if you focus on Nara Park and Tōdai-ji. However, you’ll need to move fast and won’t have time for more off-the-beaten-path spots.
Where to stay when visiting Nara
Kyoto: Hotel Keihan Kyoto Ekiminami, a modern and conveniently located hotel offering comfortable accommodations just a short walk from Kyoto Station, ideal for travelers exploring the city and beyond
Osaka: remm Shin-Osaka, a sleek and modern budget-friendly hotel conveniently located within Shin-Osaka Station (all Shinkansen bullet trains arrive/depart here), offering comfortable rooms and excellent amenities for travelers exploring Osaka and beyond
Final thoughts on Nara
Nara is an absolute delight—whether you’re admiring Daibutsu at Tōdai-ji, feeding friendly deer, or wandering through its ancient temples and charming streets, the city never fails to enchant.
I loved Nara’s peaceful atmosphere and rich history. It’s a perfect mix of nature, culture, and tradition, making it one of Japan’s most rewarding destinations. If you have time, I highly recommend spending a full day exploring its wonders!
Do you agree with our list? What are some of the best things to do in Nara? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
Hello there, fellow globetrotters! I’m Mihir, a passionate travel blogger with an insatiable wanderlust. My journey across the world is fueled by curiosity and a hunger for unique experiences. As a travel writer, photographer, and adventurer, I’ve explored more than 35 countries, aiming to provide readers with a distinctive glimpse of our diverse world. Join me as I blend captivating storytelling with stunning visuals, guiding you through hidden gems and cultural treasures. Besides traveling, my other loves are my beloved cats, architecture, art, craft beer, classic movies, history, and Australian Rules Football (Go Dons!).
