In Nara, you can easily travel around the city by train or bus. Two train companies serve the area: Kintetsu Railways and JR West. Kintetsu Nara Station is the closest to the main attractions like Nara Park and Kofukuji Temple, while JR Nara Station is about a 15–20 minute walk away. Buses operated by Nara Kotsu connect both stations with popular sights, and you can use major IC cards like Suica and Icoca on both buses and trains.
Most top attractions are in or near Nara Park and can be explored on foot. Temples like Toshodaiji, Yakushiji, and Horyuji are farther out and best reached by bus or train. To make travel easier, consider the Nara Bus Pass. It starts at 600 yen for one day and goes up to 1650 yen for a 2-day pass that covers more areas. Foreign tourists can also use the Kintetsu Rail Pass, which includes bus rides and unlimited train travel between Nara, Osaka, and Kyoto.
Nara Travel Tips
Nara (奈良), Japan's first permanent capital established in 710, is a treasure trove of history and culture. Once a powerful city that saw emperors come and go, Nara was eventually overshadowed by the rising influence of its Buddhist monasteries, leading to the capital's relocation to Nagaoka in 784 and later to Kyoto. Today, Nara is less than an hour's journey from both Kyoto and Osaka, making it an easily accessible destination for travelers.
Visitors to Nara can immerse themselves in its rich heritage, exploring ancient temples and shrines that are among the oldest and largest in Japan. From the stunning Todai-ji Temple, home to a giant Buddha statue, to the serene Nara Park, where friendly deer roam freely, every corner of Nara offers a glimpse into Japan's storied past.
Getting around
Attractions
See all- Neighborhoods:
- Naramachi
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1Nara ParkSacred deer and historic temples
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2Todaiji TempleLarge temple with a big Buddha statue
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3Kofukuji TempleHistoric pagodas, Buddhist art, Fujiwara legacy
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4Horyuji TempleThe world’s oldest wooden buildings
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5Kasuga TaishaHistoric shrine, lantern festivals, sacred forest
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6Kofukuji National Treasure MuseumBuddhist art and Ashura Statue
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7Nara National MuseumBuddhist art, Todaiji treasures, historic museum
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8Toshodaiji TempleGanjin’s influence and historic temple
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9Yakushiji TempleAncient temple with historic pagodas
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10Heijo PalaceAncient capital, historical reconstructions, UNESCO site
Events
Itineraries
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14 days in Japan Itinerary 14 Days $3500 -
Ultimate 9-Day Itinerary for Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, and Himeji 9 Days $1500 -
8 days in tokyo osaka kyoto and nara a partner trip travelers must see adventure 8 Days $1200 -
Discovering Japan's Beauty in 21 Days 21 Days $5000 -
Discovering Japan's Must-See Spots in 21 Days 21 Days $2500 -
10 day itinerary to Tokyo,Osaka and Kyoto 10 Days $2500 -
12 Days in Kumamoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima 12 Days $1200
Nearby
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1KyotoKyoto was for a 1000 years the capital of Japan
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2OsakaOsaka is Japan's second-largest metropolitan
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3YoshinoJapan's most famous cherry blossom spot
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4Asuka and SakuraiThe cradle of Japanese civilization
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5UjiCity south of Kyoto known for its temple and tea
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6KokaA rural city known as the homeland of the ninja
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7Iga UenoKnown for its rich history and ninja heritage
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8Ise ShimaHome to Japan's most sacred Shinto shrines
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9KobeHarbor city, recovered from the 1995 earthquake
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10KoyasanMountain town known for its impressive temples
Reviews
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5/5 - Excellent
Nara is a captivating city, known for its rich history and peaceful atmosphere. The Nara Park, home to hundreds of friendly deer, is a highlight and a unique experience for visitors. The park is also where you'll find some of Japan's most iconic landmarks, including Todai-ji Temple with its massive Great Buddha statue, and the tranquil Kasuga Taisha Shrine. The temples, gardens, and serene paths provide a perfect setting for reflection and exploration.
In addition to its historical sites, Nara has a relaxed vibe with charming streets, local markets, and traditional teahouses. Naramachi, the old merchant district, offers a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved architecture and shops selling local crafts. Whether you're a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, Nara’s blend of culture, nature, and calm makes it a perfect destination to unwind and experience Japan's heritage.2 months ago — by Wesley