Discover Nara

Less than an hour from Kyoto, discover the historical city of Nara, where friendly deer roam the streets, gardens, and temple grounds. As a former capital, Nara boasts beautiful historical temples and intriguing sights that provide a fascinating glimpse into Japan's past.

Things to see and do

Tours and Activities

FAQs

Getting around in Nara

The easiest way around Nara is on foot, since the major sights and attractions are within walking distance from each other. 

Travelers can also opt to buy the following passes to get around:

  • Nara Bus Pass
    • Coverage: all Nara Kotsu buses within Nara City
    • Duration: 1 day
    • Price: 500 Yen
    • Where to buy: Nara Station

 

  • Nara Bus 1-Day Wide Pass
    • Coverage:
      • all Nara Kotsu buses within Nara City
      • also covers buses in Ikaruga
    • Duration: 1 day
    • Price: 1000 Yen
    • Where to buy: Nara Station

 

  • Nara Bus 2-Day Wide Pass
    • Coverage:
      • all Nara Kotsu buses within Nara City
      • also covers buses within Ikaruga
      • also covers buses within Asaku
    • Duration: 1 day
    • Price: 1000 Yen
    • Where to buy: Nara Station
       
  • Kintetsu Rail Pass
    • Coverage:
      • All trains on the Kintetsu Local, Rapid and Express Trains between Osaka, Nara and Kyoto
      • all Nara Kotsu buses within Nara City
      • also covers buses Ikaruga
    • Duration: 1 day or 2 days
    • Price: 1500 Yen or 2500 Yen
    • Where to buy: Nara Station (only available to foreign tourists)

 

Getting to Nara

Travelers who come by train should get off at Kintetsu-Nara station. 

 

Rail Passes:

  • Kintetsu Rail Pass
    • Coverage:
      • All trains on the Kintetsu Local, Rapid and Express Trains between Osaka, Nara and Kyoto
      • all Nara Kotsu buses within Nara City
      • also covers buses Ikaruga
    • Duration: 1 day or 2 days
    • Price: 1500 Yen or 2500 Yen
    • Where to buy: Nara Station (only available to foreign tourists)
       

 

Rental Cars:

 

Nearest Airport:
The nearest and most convenient airport is Kansai international airport. 

  • by car: approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes
  • by public transport: approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes

How long to stay in Nara

We recommend staying here between one and two days.
 

Hotels in Nara

Flights to Nara

Festivals in Nara

There are two famous festival in this area. Please be advised that the following info is based upon previous entries of the festival and that the dates might have changed for the following year. It is also possible that the entire festival is cancelled in the case of heavy rainfall or a natural disaster. Please check with the official organisers' website for the most up-to-date information. 
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For the exact location of the festivals, you can consult our map above by clicking on the icon in the upper most corner of the map to open the map legend. Festivals are hidden by default but can be made visible by clicking on the "Festivals" checkbox in the map legend.

 

  • Chugen Mantoro Festival

    • Date: August 14th and 15th

    • Time: 19:00 - 21:30
       

  • Basara Festival

    • Date: August 24th and 25th

    • Time: 11:00 - 20:30

Getting mobile data in Japan

Day trips from Nara

Journey to Mount Ikoma, the focal point of Ikoma's attractions. Choose between taking the cable car or hiking up the mountain, making sure to pass by the majestic Hozanji Temple. ...

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Distance, km: 12.43

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Uji, a city steeped in history and culture, offers a wide array of ancient and religious temples, beautiful parks, local shopping streets, and even a water park to cool off ...

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Nature enthusiasts will be captivated by the pristine beauty of Akame Waterfalls. Situated in the heart of Muro Akame Aoyama National Park, visitors can marvel at the stunning waterfalls, swim ...

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Distance, km: 26.66

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Discover the often-overlooked Oyamazaki, located just outside of Kyoto. This hidden gem boasts several intriguing sights and museums that provide an engaging insight into Japan's rich history and culture. Don't ...

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Distance, km: 27.41

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Dive into the fascinating world of ninjas in Iga, the perfect destination for anyone interested in learning more about these legendary figures. Visit the Ninja Museum, where you can engage ...

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Distance, km: 28.67

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Experience the energy of Osaka, one of the world's largest metropolises and Japan's second-largest city. With countless shopping opportunities and fascinating history to explore, be sure to plan a multi-day ...

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Distance, km: 30.30

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Visit Yoshino in Nara, a quaint, small village famous for its annual cherry blossom display. The village also features world-class temples and a ropeway that leads to unique viewpoints of ...

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Distance, km: 35.04

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As a former seat of the imperial court and a cultural capital, Kyoto offers an endless array of attractions for visitors. From the numerous historical sights and monuments to the ...

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Distance, km: 36.40

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Just north of Osaka lies Minoo, a city that boasts one of the oldest parks in Japan. Explore Minoo Park, with its walking trails, temples, and the famous Minoo Falls ...

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Distance, km: 37.53

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Lake Biwa offers an array of activities for every type of traveler, from swimming, kayaking, sailing, and windsurfing to leisurely boat cruises on the lake. Explore the local shrines, temples, ...

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Distance, km: 43.45

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