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Nara Travel Guide: Unique Things to Do, Must-Sees, and What to Know Before You Go
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items Planning a day trip or overnight stay in Nara? This guide has everything you need. From bowing deer in the park to ancient temples and peaceful gardens, Nara blends nature and culture in a way that feels truly special. We’re sharing the best things t...
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Is Nara Worth Visiting?
Unique Things to Do in Nara
Must-See Spots in Nara
Where to Stay in Nara
Is Nara Worth Visiting?
Here’s our honest guide to help you decide if Nara deserves a spot on your Japan itinerary, plus a sample itinerary to help you plan your visit.
First things first: if you're wondering whether Nara is worth adding to your trip, this guide breaks it all down.
Is Nara Worth Visiting? Everything You Need to Know for First-Time Visitors to Nara, Japan
We’ve created this Nara day trip itinerary for those who want to see the best of the city in just one day without feeling rushed.
Nara Day Trip Itinerary: How to Make the Most of Nara, Japan in 1 Day
Unique Things to Do in Nara
Beyond deer and temples, try hands-on experiences like tea utensil making, local cooking classes, or a soy sauce brewery tour for a memorable Nara visit.
Just 2 stops from Nara Station. A surprisingly fun and flavorful experience.
Traditional Soy Sauce Brewery Tour in Nara
A creative break from sightseeing, perfect for travelers who love crafts.
Making Accessories from Eco-friendly Wood in Nara, Japan
Learn how to make zushi, somen, and kinako desserts with a local chef.
Making Traditional Nara Food at a Local's Home
About 1 hour from Nara, this one’s ideal if you’re staying overnight and want something hands-on and memorable.
Make Your Own Soy Sauce in Japan’s Old Capital Asuka, Nara
Matcha is everywhere these days, but have you ever made your own tea scoop by hand? This hands-on experience is such a unique way to connect with Japanese tea culture.
Make Your Own Tea Scoop at a Local Tea Maker
Must-See Spots in Nara
From giant Buddhas to scenic parks and iconic deer encounters, here’s a rundown of the must-see spots in Nara you’ll want to add to your itinerary.
Don’t feel like DIY-ing your Nara trip? This early bird guided tour covers the must-sees before the crowds show up.
Nara Early Bird Tour: Covers Major Spots in Nara
A peaceful spot for cherry blossom viewing along the river, especially beautiful with the soft reflections on the water.
Cherry Blossoms Viewing at Saho River
Famous for high-speed mochi pounding, Nakatanidou is a fun (and tasty) stop you don’t want to miss.
Fast Speed Mochi Pounding at Nakatanidou
The heart of Nara and home to its famous friendly deer. Bring snacks and your camera.
Nara Park: Deer Heaven
Known for its thousands of stone and bronze lanterns, this centuries-old shrine feels peaceful, mystical, and uniquely Nara.
Kasugataisha Shrine: Nara’s Lantern-Lit Spiritual Sanctuary
Home to the Great Buddha, Tōdai-ji is Nara’s most iconic temple and a must-visit.
Todai-ji Temple: Home to the Great Buddha
UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Nara’s most important temples. The five-story pagoda is an iconic part of the city’s skyline.
Kōfuku-ji Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
A peaceful hill perfect for sunset views, and yes, you might spot deer at the top too.
Mt. Wakakusa: Perfect for Sunset Watching with Deer
Where to Stay in Nara
Staying overnight in Nara? From forest ryokans to budget inns and luxury stays, here are our top picks for every traveler.
A central, budget-friendly option just 10 minutes from Kintetsu-Nara Station. Clean rooms and English-speaking staff make it a convenient choice.
Budget Pick: NARA Visitor Center & Inn
A refined luxury hotel that blends modern design with traditional elegance, located near key attractions and just 10 minutes from Kintetsu-Nara Station.
Luxury Pick: Shisui
A quiet, traditional ryokan near Nara Park with warm hospitality and a relaxed atmosphere.
Mid-Range Pick: Shikitei
A secluded luxury ryokan in the forest near Kasuga Taisha Shrine, offering traditional meals and the classic “deer right outside your window” experience.
Unique Forest Ryokan Stay: Tsukihitei Ryokan
A one-of-a-kind stay inside a working soy sauce brewery in Asuka, about an hour from Nara. Includes hands-on food experiences and workshops.
Stay at a Soy Sauce Factory: NIPPONIA 田原本 マルト醤油