NARA
Nara Prefecture is the ancient heart of Japan, serving as its first permanent capital over 1,300 years ago. It is a land where magnificent wooden temples and historical sites stand preserved, surrounded by serene natural beauty.
This region is the cradle of Japanese art, Buddhism, and culture. It offers a slower, spiritual pace than its bustling neighbors, allowing visitors to walk among World Heritage sites and friendly, free-roaming deer.
Most Popular Attractions
Ancient Temples & Shrines:
Tōdai-ji Temple: Home to the Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall), the world’s largest wooden building, which houses a colossal, 15-meter tall bronze statue of the Great Buddha (Daibutsu).
Kōfuku-ji Temple: One of Nara’s “Seven Great Temples,” featuring the impressive Five-Story Pagoda, the second tallest in Japan, and the National Treasure Museum.
Kasuga Taisha Shrine: Nara’s most celebrated Shinto shrine, famous for its over 3,000 antique bronze and stone lanterns that line its paths and illuminate its beautiful vermillion buildings.
Nigatsu-dō Hall: A sub-complex of Tōdai-ji, known for its stunning views of Nara City from its wooden veranda and the famous Omizutori fire ritual.
Tōshōdai-ji Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring a classic example of Tempyo-period architecture, founded by the Chinese monk Ganjin.
Yakushi-ji Temple: A UNESCO site known for its exquisite symmetry and the beautiful Eastern Pagoda, one of the oldest surviving structures in Japan.
Gangō-ji Temple: Considered one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan, featuring traditional machiya architecture in the nearby Naramachi district.
Parks, Gardens & Nature:
Nara Park: A large public park in the heart of the city famous for its free-roaming sika deer, considered messengers of the gods. Visitors can buy special crackers to feed them.
Isuien Garden: A beautiful and tranquil Japanese garden that incorporates the surrounding temples and mountains into its design as “borrowed scenery” (shakkei).
Yoshikien Garden: Another serene Japanese garden, often offering free entry to foreign visitors, consisting of three distinct garden styles: a pond, a moss, and a tea ceremony garden.
Mount Wakakusa: A low mountain offering panoramic views of Nara City, famous for the Yamayaki (grass burning) festival in January.
Mount Kasuga Primeval Forest: A protected forest on the slopes of Mount Kasuga, which has remained untouched for centuries due to its sacred connection to the Kasuga Taisha Shrine.
History & Culture Districts:
Naramachi: The former merchant district of Nara, known for its labyrinth of narrow lanes lined with well-preserved traditional wooden townhouses (machiya), now converted into boutiques, cafes, and craft shops.
Heijō Palace Site Historical National Park: The former location of the Imperial Palace when Nara was the capital (Heijō-kyō), now an archaeological site with a reconstructed Daigokuden (Imperial Audience Hall).
Nara National Museum: A respected institution specializing in Japanese Buddhist art, housing a vast collection of statues, paintings, and historical artifacts.
Food & Unique Experiences:
Nakatanidou: Famous for its high-speed mochi-pounding demonstrations, where the fresh rice cakes are prepared for a popular local treat.
Harushika Sake Brewery: Offers tastings and tours, representing Nara’s heritage as a traditional sake-producing region.
Nara Visitor Center & Inn: Provides cultural activities and tours, including tea ceremony and sake tasting experiences.
Nara Countryside & Ancient Towns
Hōryū-ji Temple: Located in the Ikaruga area, this UNESCO World Heritage Site holds the world’s oldest surviving wooden structures, a monumental collection of Buddhist monuments.
Mount Yoshino: Arguably Japan’s most famous cherry blossom viewing spot, with thousands of trees covering the mountainside, particularly beautiful in spring and autumn. It is part of the Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range UNESCO site.
Asuka Village: The site of Japan’s earliest imperial capitals before Nara, now a village where visitors can cycle among ancient tomb mounds (kofun), stone monuments, and Japan’s oldest authentic Buddhist temple, Asuka-dera.
Kashihara Jingū: A major Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Jimmu, the legendary first Emperor of Japan, set amidst a vast and solemn precinct.
Imaichō: An exceptionally well-preserved historic town of merchant houses from the Edo Period, often referred to as an “open-air museum.”
Mitarai Valley: A scenic area in the south, known for its tumbling rivers, waterfalls, and the ancient Mitarai Gorge, popular for hiking.
Activities & Experiences
Feed the Sika Deer in Nara Park: Purchase shika senbei (deer crackers) from local vendors and interact with the over 1,200 wild, yet tame, deer that roam freely in the park.
Marvel at the Daibutsu in Tōdai-ji Temple: Visit one of Japan’s most famous temples and behold the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), a colossal 15-meter-tall bronze statue housed in the world’s largest wooden building.
Stroll through the Kasuga Taisha Shrine’s Lanterns: Walk along the pathways to this famous Shinto shrine, famed for the thousands of bronze and stone lanterns that line its grounds and surrounding forest.
Explore the Traditional Streets of Naramachi: Wander through the preserved merchant district, a collection of narrow streets with traditional machiya (townhouses), charming shops, cafes, and museums.
Experience Mochi Pounding at Nakatanidou: Watch a high-speed, dynamic demonstration of mochitsuki (mochi pounding) at this famous shop, then buy and try the incredibly fresh, soft rice cake.
Take a Hike up Mount Wakakusa (Wakakusayama): Climb the gentle, grass-covered hill for a panoramic view of Nara City, especially beautiful during sunset.
Partake in a Traditional Tea Ceremony: Experience the peaceful ritual of sado (the way of tea) at a local tea house or specialized cultural center.
Cycle through Asuka Village: Rent a bicycle and explore the historic landscapes of Asuka, the cradle of Japan’s first centralized state, dotted with ancient burial mounds and temples.
Visit the World’s Oldest Wooden Structures at Hōryū-ji Temple: Take a trip outside the city center to see this UNESCO World Heritage site, home to the oldest surviving wooden buildings on Earth.
Wander through the Gardens of Isuien and Yoshikien: Find a moment of tranquility by exploring these exquisite, traditional Japanese landscape gardens, particularly beautiful during autumn.
Savor Local Sake at a Brewery Tour/Tasting: Nara is a historic sake-brewing region. Visit a local kura (brewery) to learn about the process and taste the local rice wine.
Local Tips & Transport
Walkability in Central Nara: The core tourist area, including Nara Park, Tōdai-ji, Kōfuku-ji, and Naramachi, is highly compact and best explored on foot. Many of the most scenic paths within the park are only accessible by walking.
Train Options: Nara is served by two main stations: JR Nara Station and Kintetsu Nara Station. The Kintetsu Line is often more convenient for travelers coming from Osaka/Kyoto, and Kintetsu Nara Station is closer to Nara Park (about a 5-minute walk) than the JR station (15–20 minutes).
City Buses: For sites further afield or to bridge the gap between the JR Station and the park, the Nara Kotsu Bus Lines are extensive and efficient. The City Loop Bus (Yellow) runs a circuit connecting the two stations and all major attractions. Consider the Nara Bus Pass for unlimited use if you plan to visit many temples outside the core park area.
IC Cards are Essential: Use a rechargeable IC card like ICOCA, Suica, or Pasmo for seamless travel on all local trains and buses, as well as for small purchases at convenience stores. Buying tickets for every ride is inefficient.
Bikes for the Outskirts: For exploring the quieter, rural historical areas like Asuka or the ancient Yamanobe-no-Michi road, renting a bicycle is a popular and rewarding option.
The Deer are Wild (and Bold): While the Sika deer are accustomed to people, they are still wild animals. They can be aggressive when they smell deer crackers (shika senbei), sometimes nudging or even bowing repeatedly. Feed them from a small bundle and hide the rest. Never feed them human food.
Meal Times: Dining times in Japan are generally more consistent than in Spain. Lunch is typically 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, and many restaurants open for dinner around 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
Cash is Still King: Although credit cards are accepted at major hotels and large stores, many smaller restaurants, temples, and shops in Naramachi, and most bus fares still require cash (Yen). Always carry enough for a day’s travel.
The Power of Respect: Politeness is paramount. Always accept a business card with two hands, and if you are ever unsure about a custom, a polite bow and a simple Sumimasen (Excuse me/Sorry) will be well-received. Tipping is not customary and can even be considered rude.
Hidden Gems:
- Heijō Palace Site: Explore the vast, open grounds and reconstructed main gate of the former Imperial Palace, a major archaeological site that was Japan’s capital for 70 years.
- Yoshikien Garden (Free Entry): While Isuien charges a fee, the adjacent Yoshikien is often free for foreign tourists and offers three distinct styles of beautiful Japanese gardens.
- The Ancient Yamanobe-no-Michi Trail: Considered the oldest road in Japan, this scenic walking trail connects several ancient shrines and temples outside the city center.
Top Restaurants
Kamameshi Shizuka Kouen-ten [$15-$30] – Located at the entrance to Nara Park, this very popular spot is famous for its kamameshi (rice cooked in an iron pot with various toppings). A classic and essential Nara experience.
Edogawa Naramachi [$30-$50] – A top-notch unagi (eel) restaurant set in a beautiful, old machiya (traditional wooden townhouse) in the historic Naramachi district, offering a traditional Japanese ambiance.
Kura [$25-$40] – A charming and welcoming izakaya (Japanese-style dining pub) in Naramachi, offering creative Japanese cuisine made from local ingredients, perfect for a lively dinner.
Maguro Koya [$20-$35] – A must-visit izakaya for tuna enthusiasts, offering a delightful and extensive menu filled with various tuna dishes, including specialties like tuna sashimi.
Kameya [$15-$25] – A long-standing, unpretentious Japanese restaurant on Sanjo-dori, popular for its traditional okonomiyaki (savory pancake) and welcoming foreign travelers.
Tengyokudo Nara Main Store [$10-$20] – A casual cafe near Nara Park specializing in traditional Japanese sweets, particularly those made from kudzu root starch, as well as light meals like udon and tofu.
Kamaiki [$10-$20] – A popular, simple udon noodle restaurant known for serving authentic, comforting Sanuki-style udon, located conveniently near Kintetsu Nara Station.
Sabo Nonnon [$15-$25] – A beautiful, pure Japanese-style teahouse located in a 200-year-old former merchant’s townhouse in Naramachi, specializing in Nara’s rustic chagayu (tea rice porridge).
To no Chaya Naramachi Branch [$15-$30] – Situated in a charming, traditional building in Naramachi, this spot is known for its signature chagayu (tea porridge) and luxurious Chagayu Bento set.
Washoku to Osake Yamatoan [$20-$35] – A classic Japanese dining restaurant on Sanjo Dori serving beautifully presented set meals with a varied menu of tempura, sashimi, and udon, featuring a good range of local sake.
Tori Tamura [$25-$40] – A cozy and stylish restaurant specializing in expertly charcoal-grilled yakitori (chicken skewers) using rose salt, with beef, pork, and vegetable options also available.
Kichiza Den-Emon [$30-$50] – Specializes in authentic Japanese fine dining, offering a large selection of choices including sashimi, tempura, and shabu-shabu, with beautifully arranged obanzai-style set meals for lunch.
Yakko [$15-$30] – Located near Kinpusen-ji Temple, this spot is great for enjoying the Nara specialty, kakinoha-zushi (sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves), while taking in spectacular mountain views.
Somen Morisho [$10-$20] – A rustic restaurant in Miwa, the birthplace of somen noodles, specializing in this historic, thin-wheat noodle dish, which is a must-try local dish.
Akordu [$60-$100] – A two-Michelin-starred restaurant near Nara Park that experiments with Spanish cuisine, offering elevated tapas, paella, and Spanish-Japanese fusion dishes using ingredients like high-quality Yamato beef.
La Trace [$50-$80] – A one-Michelin-starred French restaurant focusing on high-quality, traceable ingredients, serving picture-perfect platings with a focus on simplicity and exquisite flavor.
Awa (Naramachi) [$30-$50] – A “farm-to-table” restaurant specializing in organic Yamato vegetables from local, traditional farming practices, offering healthy Japanese cuisine in the Naramachi district.
Kitsune [$40-$70] – A sukiyaki specialist in Naramachi, created by a renowned chef, offering a “Kitsune Full Course” that features high-quality Yamato beef sukiyaki and other diverse local dishes.
Teppanyaki Sanga [$40-$70] – Located near Nara Station, this restaurant specializes in teppanyaki, where fresh ingredients are skillfully grilled on a hot plate right in front of the diner.
Cafe Kotodama [$15-$25] – Set in a beautifully restored former sake brewery, this casual restaurant offers healthy lunch sets focused on locally grown vegetables.
Le Case [$20-$35] – A charming, casual French restaurant in Nara Park, set in a renovated old-style house, specializing in an array of delectable savory and sweet quiches.
Motsusui Nara-Sanjo Branch [$30-$50] – Known for its horumon (offal) dishes and specialties, offering kushiyaki (skewers) and Motsunabe (hotpot) with special beef bone broth in a stylish interior.
Sakura Burger [$10-$20] – A popular, casual spot offering a variety of tall, inventive burgers with an extensive menu of add-ons, along with hot dogs and sandwiches.
Surugamachi no Okonomiyakiya [$15-$25] – A cozy restaurant near JR Nara Station serving delicious, authentic Tokushima-style okonomiyaki (savory pancake), distinguished by its unique regional style.
Wa Yamamura [$100-$180] – A small, highly-acclaimed Japanese kaiseki (multi-course) restaurant led by chef Nobuharu Yamamura, renowned for its simple, traditional excellence and three Michelin stars.
Oryori Hanagaki [$150-$250] – A two-Michelin-starred restaurant offering an exclusive omakase (chef’s choice) menu that changes daily based on the highest quality seasonal ingredients available.
Tsukumo [$150-$250] – A two-Michelin-starred kaiseki restaurant known for its exquisite, minimalist presentation and use of traditional cooking techniques to highlight the best possible flavors from every ingredient.
Oryori Hirooka [$150-$250] – A highly-rated kaiseki restaurant known for its refined Japanese cuisine, offering a sophisticated and tranquil dining experience.
Nara Okada [$120-$200] – A fine dining kaiseki restaurant that meticulously prepares traditional Japanese cuisine, focusing on seasonal ingredients in a refined setting.
Tori Yamaguchi [$80-$150] – An upscale restaurant specializing in high-quality yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), offering a more refined, high-end experience of this popular Japanese staple.
Ajinokaze Nishimura [$120-$200] – A restaurant offering exquisite kaiseki cuisine, praised for its deep, traditional flavors and dedication to the art of Japanese culinary traditions.
Wakasa Curry Honpo [$10-$20] – A casual curry joint in a shopping arcade, specializing in delicious Japanese-style curry, a cheap and easy choice for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Onwa [$15-$25] – A welcoming vegan cafe located near JR Nara Station, known for serving generous portions of healthy, plant-based food.
Tonkatsu Ganko Nara [$15-$30] – A charming and elegant restaurant offering a delightful Japanese dining experience specializing in perfectly prepared tonkatsu (deep-fried pork cutlets).
Yamato Yakushokudokoro Narayama Chakan [$20-$40] – A medicinal cuisine (yakuzen ryori) restaurant in the Naramachi area, focusing on utilizing the natural healing properties of seasonal and local ingredients to promote health.
VILLA COMMUNICO [$50-$90] – An innovative restaurant and auberge serving wood-fire cuisine, a unique dining experience steeped in the local culture, located near Mt. Wakakusa.
Pizzeria Trattoria Magazzino [$20-$40] – A highly-rated Italian restaurant and Bib Gourmand recipient, offering high-quality pizza and trattoria fare, a good alternative to Japanese cuisine.
Nijiiro Melon [$5-$10] – A unique street food stall specializing in melon pan (sweet, crisp Japanese bun) filled with ice cream, a fun and unique dessert experience.
Nakatanidou [$5-$10] – Famous for its visually spectacular, rapid mochitsuki (rice-pounding) performance, producing fresh, delicious yomogi mochi (mugwort-flavored sticky rice cake filled with sweet bean paste).
Mizutani-chaya [$10-$20] – A picturesque, traditional little teahouse with a beautiful thatched roof, nestled in a ravine between Nigatsu-do and Kasuga-Taisha Shrine, offering a tranquil place for a break.
Cafe Cojica [$15-$25] – A family-friendly cafe set in a beautifully restored 120-year-old machiya townhouse, offering set meals and an extensive menu of specialty sweets and parfaits.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Lamp Bar: Found in Nara City near Tsunofurichō, this snug drinking den is home to a world-class bartender. There is no set menu; the expert staff crafts a bespoke cocktail tailored to your personal preferences.
Bar Savant: A hidden cocktail haven located in Nara, known for its refined atmosphere and expertly mixed drinks, offering a sophisticated late-night experience.
The Bar (Nara Hotel): Situated on the first floor of the historic Nara Hotel in the Takabatakecho area, this stylishly retro Meiji-era bar provides impeccable, old-fashioned service and a refined setting for an intimate conversation.
The Sailing Bar: A classic, intimate lounge that serves as a hidden gem, located a short distance from the main city center, offering traditional cocktails and a cozy ambiance.
Salon des Vins Seve: Located in the traditional Naramachi district, this is a quiet and refined wine bar that also offers a good range of local sakes and is perfect for unwinding in a historic setting.
Bar Liquid: Found near Kintetsu Nara Station, this bar is known for its wide selection of spirits and a clean, modern atmosphere, making it a reliable spot for a late-night drink.
Bar Pippin: A charming bar located in Nara that is praised for its welcoming atmosphere and carefully crafted cocktails, often featuring seasonal ingredients.
Amberjack: Known for a relaxed atmosphere, this bar in Nara City is a great place to stop for a well-made cocktail or a fine whiskey after a day of sightseeing.
Bar Sally: A comfortable, hideaway spot located slightly outside the central area in Yamato Koriyama City, offering a good selection of cocktails, whiskies, local sake, and even the option for late-night karaoke.
nakamuraya: Near Kintetsu Nara Station, this spot functions as a wine bar and café, offering a relaxing setting for Italian food and a selection of curated drinks.
BAR FAMOUS: A cozy shot bar located a two-minute walk from Kintetsu Shin-Omiya Station, known for its friendly atmosphere and late closing time, making it a great stop for a nightcap.
Bar Old Time (Hotel Nikko Nara): Located within the Hotel Nikko Nara near JR Nara Station, this spot offers a more traditional hotel bar experience with classic cocktails and a relaxed setting.
Hot Staff: A restaurant and bar in Saidaiji, providing a friendly, hideaway atmosphere. It features counter seating and hosts live jazz performances a few times a month.
Yakitei Juju: A casual izakaya and bar near Nara Park that offers Japanese comfort favorites like okonomiyaki and stays open late, perfect for a casual drink and snack.
Kuramoto Houshuku Nara: A tachinomiya (Japanese standing bar) located right in front of Kintetsu Nara Station, managed by a historical sake brewery, offering tastings of various local sakes.
COTTON CLUB: A long-running bar in the Omiyacho area near Shin-Omiya Station, offering a relaxed, cozy atmosphere with modern jazz playing in the background. While not a traditional “club,” its ambiance and late hours make it a great nightspot.
Zest (Tenri City): Located slightly outside central Nara in Tenri, Zest has been referenced as a club venue, offering a more dedicated party experience than the typical city bar.
Nara Centennial Hall: While primarily a multi-purpose performance venue near JR Nara Station, it regularly hosts concerts, theater, and music performances, offering a sophisticated evening out, especially for live music.
Bar MUGEN: A hidden bar, often serving as a late-night venue with music and drinks in the central Nara area, popular with those looking for a lively pub experience.
Jazz Spot Juke: Located near the central shopping streets, this spot caters to jazz enthusiasts and offers live music, providing a vibrant, late-night atmosphere that goes beyond a standard bar.
Kashiwara Club (Kashiwara City): A dedicated dance and music venue, located outside of Nara City in Kashiwara. It offers a more authentic club experience for those willing to travel slightly.
Yatagarasu (Nara Park Area): A lively yakitori restaurant and bar known for serving up a wide range of drinks and staying open late, providing a fun, energetic atmosphere for socializing.
Naramachi Music Bars (Various): The Naramachi district, with its old-town charm, has several small, unnamed or constantly changing late-night bars and music spots that are best discovered by exploring the narrow streets after dark.
Shisha Bar: A unique late-night lounge option, with a different atmosphere to a traditional club, often found near Kintetsu Nara Station, catering to a younger crowd.
Karaoke Boxes: Located around the main stations, large Karaoke chains offer private rooms and are a classic, high-energy late-night activity in Japan, essentially serving as a popular form of “clubbing” for groups.