Nara is a small town an hour outside of Kyoto and Osaka and a special place to visit when in Japan, especially as a day trip from either of these towns. Historically, it was the first permanent capital city for the empire of Japan back in the 700s AD. Over time, it has had a lot of power religiously for the country, even seen as a threat to the political throne. Today, a Nara day trip will allow you to visit various Buddhist and Shinto temples, explore the beautiful parks and landscapes, and meet and greet the famous bowing deer.
Transportation for your Nara Day Trip from Kyoto and Osaka
To do a Nara day trip from Kyoto and Osaka, you will have to take a train. Nara is an hour away from either city, making it very easy to get to when in this part of Japan. If you are traveling between Kyoto and Osaka and doing a Nara day trip on your way to either, you can leave your bags in the lockers at the train station. You can also consider staying overnight in Nara so you can experience this quaint town with as few tourists as possible in the later evening and early morning.
The Top Places to Visit During a Nara Day Trip
Todai-ji
The Todai Temple of Nara is one of the oldest temples in Nara and was a powerful Buddhist monastery and temple. Today, it is one of the top temples to discover when doing a Nara day trip. If you want to experience the temple complex with as few people as possible, make sure to arrive in Nara early in the morning and make your way to this temple first thing. You will walk through the main gate towards the temple along with the famous local deer.
The temple’s most famous structure is the Daibutsu-den, Great Buddha Hall, that contains an enormous Buddha statue. The hall itself was built in the 18th century and is the largest wooden building in the world today. You must purchase a ticket and pay a small fee to visit the hall.
Nara Park
Nara Park is the large public park located in Nara and most of the temple structures are located within this park as well. There are places to relax, walk, and explore. It’s a beautiful place to watch the sakura (cherry blossom) trees bloom or the leaves change colors. It’s also the location where deer in Nara are free to roam as a national treasure.
Nigatsu-Do
Nigatsu-dō is part of the Todai-ji temple and is located up on the hill. You will have to take a set of stairs up to the wooden structures which are considered their own sub-complex today. From this temple, you will have a view over the various structures that are part of the Todai-ji temple along with the town of Nara below.
Kasugataisha Shrine
The Kasugataisha Shrine is a Shinto shrine that dates back to the 8th century. It is famous for its many stone lanterns that line pathways and bronze lanterns that fill the interior of the shrine. When purchasing entry into this shrine, you will get to walk through the various structures, including one room that is only lit with the lanterns, giving you a glimpse into what the temple could feel like at night.
Yoshikien Garden
If you need a break from discovering the temples, make your way to the Yoshikien Garden, a traditional Japanese garden with pathways and ponds that will help you relax and decompress. It’s a great place to take in various Japanese gardening techniques.
Higashimuki Shopping Street
If you are looking for food and souvenirs, make your way to the Higashimuki Shopping Street, an internal pedestrian streetway that is lined with different restaurants and boutique shops. It’s the best place to find food variety when touring around a Nara day trip.
Info About the Deer of Nara
Nara is famous for the deer that freely wander through the streets and parks. The deer are protected as a national treasure in Nara and have free reign of Nara park. There are a few things to note with regards to the deer. First, the deer may become aggressive, especially around food so be aware of the animals when in the park. They have been known to kick or bite, especially the male deer, and it is important to watch your kids around them. Second, the deer will bow to you but they are expecting a treat in return. You can purchase deer food at various vendors throughout Nara to give to the deer and make sure you get this early in the day because they do sell out. Overall though, the animals are calm and it is special to get to walk through the park and temples with them by your side.
Before or After this Nara Day Trip... Where Should You Go?
Distance from Nara:
.5 Hours
Distance from Nara:
1 Hour
Other day trip from Osaka or Kyoto: A day trip to Kobe
Distance from Osaka or Kyoto:
1 Hour
