Top 35 Things To Do In Nara, Japan - Updated 2024

things to do in nara
Isha
Isha 
Updated
| 14 min read

The former capital of ancient Japan, Nara is now a prefecture in the beautiful Kansai region of Japan. It was once the seat of the emperor of Japan and the site of the government offices in the Nara period before the capital was moved to Kyoto. Close to the historic temple city of Kyoto, Nara also has many historically significant temples dating back to the 7th century. Home to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Nara is renowned for its collection of temples, including the seven famous ones - Tōdai-ji, Yakushi-ji, Kōfuku-ji, Gangō-ji, Saidai-ji, Tōshōdai-ji, and Kasuga Shrine. Nara Park, with its hundreds of free-roaming deer, is also very popular among visitors. Towering mountains, picturesque valleys, deep rivers and well-preserved ancient towns are also part of this lovely destination. Visitors can relax in onsens, stay in exquisite ryokans, go on adventure treks and hikes, or spend quality family time in the area. The historic Nara Hotel also offers amazing stays. Beautiful gardens, shrines and museums attract visitors from far and wide. To make the most of your trip, take a look at our recommendations on the top things to do in Nara, Japan.

1. Check out the beautiful Isui-en Garden and Neiraku Museum of Art

Isuien and Nandaimon
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Gribeco used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Isui-en Garden is a traditional Japanese garden from the Edo period. It is a beautifully preserved oasis of calm in the heart of Nara. The garden features a picturesque pond, carefully manicured lawns, and a stunning collection of flowering trees and plants designed to create a sense of harmony and balance.

The Neiraku Museum of Art is a modern museum adjacent to the garden. It showcases various works from local and international artists, including paintings, ceramics, and sculptures.

Isui-en Garden and Neiraku Museum of Art

Address: 74 Suimoncho, Nara, 630-8208, Japan

Website: Isui-en Garden and Neiraku Museum of Art

Opening hours: Wed - Mon: 9.30am - 4.30pm (closed on Tue)

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2. Book a tour of Nara (from USD 275.0)

The Exploring Nara tour takes you on a fascinating journey through one of Japan’s most historic and culturally significant cities. The tour includes visiting Nara Park, where visitors can witness the famous deer that roam freely in the park. You will visit Todai-ji Temple, which houses the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue. This tour in Nara includes visiting the Kasuga-taisha Shrine (a UNESCO World Heritage site), Isui-en Japanese Garden, and Kofuku-ji Temple.

The tour offers hotel pick-ups from any hotel in Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara, making it convenient.

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Exploring Nara

Duration: 8 hours

1 review

3. Visit the colossal Great Buddha at Todaiji Temple

Visit the colossal Great Buddha at Todaiji Temple

Constructed in 752 AD, Tōdaiji Temple, also called the Great Eastern Temple, is home to a colossal bronze statue of the Great Buddha. Situated in the Great Buddha Hall, visitors to this historic temple can admire the statue that is 15 meters tall (49 feet) and depicts the Buddha in a sitting position. It is said that the open hand of the Buddha itself is as big as a human being. Several smaller statues surround the Great Buddha at Todaiji Temple.

Todaiji Temple

Address: 406-1 Zoshicho, Nara, 630-8211, Japan

Website: Todaiji Temple

Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 5.65 USD

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4. Watch the sunset from beautiful Nigatsu-do

Watch the sunset from beautiful Nigatsu-do

Situated within the Tōdaiji Temple complex is another smaller temple building called Nigatsu-dō. It was originally built in 752 AD, but rebuilt in 1669 after being destroyed by a fire. It is primarily used for ritualistic ceremonies but it is also an excellent spot from where to take in panoramic views of Nara. And if you happen to visit at sunset, you will be treated to unforgettable views over the landscape of Nara from this ancient wooden structure of Nigatsu-do.

Nigatsu-do

Address: 406-1 Zoshicho, Nara, 630-8211, Japan

Website: Nigatsu-do

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: free

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5. Frolic with the friendly deer in Nara Park


Covering a vast area of 660 hectares (1630 acres), Nara Park is a public park that is famous for the hundreds of deer that freely roam its grounds. The deer are generally very docile and considered a natural treasure of the area. You can feed the deer with deer crackers that are widely available in the park and some friendly deer will even bow to you to be fed. When in the area, spend some time in the company of these friendly animals at Nara Park.

Nara Park

Address: Nara Park, Nara, Japan

Website: Nara Park

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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6. Hike the grassy slopes of Mount Wakakusa


Situated just behind Nara Park and the Todaiji Temple complex, Mount Wakakusa is a 350-meter (1148-foot) tall grass-covered mountain. The mountain is easy to climb and takes about half an hour to reach the peak. Cherry trees line the path up to Mount Wakakusa and friendly deer from the Nara Park might accompany you on the way up! As your reward for hiking all the way up the grassy slopes of Mount Wakakusa, spectacular panoramic views of Nara await you.

Mount Wakakusa

Address: Zoshicho, Nara, 630-8211, Japan

Website: Mount Wakakusa

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 1.41 USD

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7. Admire the spectacular bronze lanterns of Kasuga Taisha

Admire the spectacular bronze lanterns of Kasuga Taisha
Source: 渡部 洋一

Built in 768 AD, Kasuga Taisha is a Shinto shrine that is renowned for the hundreds of bronze lanterns that are found hanging from its buildings. These beautifully carved lanterns are said to be donated by worshippers and are lit twice a year during the Lantern Festivals. For a fee, you can visit the inner area of the shrine where you will view the lanterns from up close. Visitors can also go to a completely dark chamber or hall where the only light comes from the hundreds of flickering lanterns.

Kasuga Taisha

Address: 160 Kasuganocho, Nara, 630-8212, Japan

Website: Kasuga Taisha

Opening hours: 9am - 4pm (daily)

Price: 4.71 USD

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8. Take a walk around Zutō, the mysterious pyramid of Nara

ZUTO NARA JAPAN1
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user ReijiYamashina used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Classified as a special stupa of the Nara Age, Zutō is a mysterious-looking pyramid in Nara. Some even call it a tomb, but its exact origins and significance are not very clearly known. Zutō looks like a step or staircase pyramid with possibly a shrine at each step. Visitors can take a walk around this mysterious pyramid of Nara and read some details about it from the signboards posted nearby.

Zutō

Address: 921 Takabatakecho, Nara, 630-8301, Japan

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 2.83 USD

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9. Stay in the old-world charm of Nara Hotel (from USD 372)

Stay in the classic old-world charm of Nara Hotel

At the century-old Nara Hotel, take a step back in time and experience a classical way of living. Though the hotel also has modern rooms in its new wing, its charm lies in the traditional Japanese-style rooms with tatami (woven-straw) flooring, traditional futon bedding and high ceilings with a classic décor. Many rooms also offer a luxurious old-world ambiance that can be enjoyed by all types of visitors. Nara Hotel is constructed in classic Japanese architecture style and it is just a 10-minute walk away from the beautiful Nara Park.

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Nara Hotel

Wifi Available

Address: Takabatake-cho 1096
1.18 km (0.8 mi) from Tōdai-ji

Parking Restaurant Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Garden Non-smoking rooms

10. Marvel at the five-storied pagoda of Kofukuji Temple

Marvel at the five-storied pagoda of Kofukuji Temple
Source: 桜 小町

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Kofukuji Temple was built around 710 AD and consisted of about 175 buildings at its peak. The current temple complex has several historically important buildings, including a five-story pagoda that stands at a height of 50 meters (164 feet). It is the second tallest wooden pagoda in Japan and it is an important landmark in Nara. Though it is forbidden to enter the pagoda, you can certainly marvel at the beauty of this magnificent structure from the temple grounds.

Kofukuji Temple

Address: 48 Noboriojicho, Nara, 630-8213, Japan

Website: Kofukuji Temple

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 5.65 USD

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11. Explore Japanese Buddhist art at Nara National Museum

Explore Japanese Buddhist art at Nara National Museum
Source: 乾口 達司

In Nara, dive into the traditional Japanese Buddhist art traditions while exploring the various exhibits at Nara National Museum. This museum is located in Nara Park and was built in 1889. In the museum’s permanent collection, visitors can admire Buddhist religious text, ceremonial objects, ritual bronzes, paintings, statues and more artifacts originating from Japan. Various temporary and special art exhibits are also displayed at the Nara National Museum.

Nara National Museum

Address: 50 Noboriōji-chō, Nara city 630-8213, Japan

Website: Nara National Museum

Opening hours: 9:30am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 4.90 USD

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12. Stroll the historic grounds of Gangoji Temple

Stroll the historic grounds of Gangoji Temple
Source: 乾口 達司

Another UNESCO World Heritage site, Gangoji Temple is said to be one of the most ancient Buddhist temples in Japan. Built in 718 AD, Gangoji temple is counted amongst the seven great temples of Nara’s Heian period. The many ancient buildings and halls of Gangoji Temple provide an insight into the development of Buddhism in early Japan. Stroll through the historic grounds of this beautiful temple and experience peace and tranquillity.

Gangoji Temple

Address: 11 Chuincho, Nara 630-8392, Japan

Website: Gangoji Temple

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 4.71 USD

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13. Peek into a traditional Japanese home at Naramachi Koshino Ie

Peek into a traditional Japanese home at Naramachi Koshino Ie
Source: 島野 佳幸

In the historic town of Naramachi, take a peek into the life of Nara residents of the olden days at the traditional Japanese home of Koshino Ie. A replica of a traditional Naramachi machiya townhouse that belonged to merchants of those days, the Naramachi Koshino Ie offers visitors a chance to understand the culture and lifestyle of that era. It features a shop space in the front and living quarters at the back. Visitors can explore the various areas of the house and admire the beautiful, simple wooden latticework, tatami floors, box staircase, traditional stove and utensils in the kitchen, as well as a miniature garden.

Naramachi Koshino Ie

Address: 44 Gangojicho, Nara, 630-8332, Japan

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9am - 5pm (closed on Mon)

Price: Free

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14. Explore the ancient emperor's residence at Heijō Palace Remains

Explore an ancient emperor's residence at Heijō Palace Remains
Source: 乾口 達司

As the former capital of Japan in the Nara period, Nara is home to many historical buildings and landmarks that serve as a reminder of this fact. The Heijō Palace Remains is one such important landmark because it served as the emperor’s residence and site of the government offices at that time. Declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, visitors to Heijō Palace Remains can see the remains as they were at the time of the excavation, along with exhibits like miniature models of the Imperial Palace and government offices of that time. The buildings of the palace grounds are reconstructed one-by-one, and visitors to the site can explore them as and when they are thrown open to the public like the Former Audience Hall, Suzaki Gate and the East Palace Gardens.

Heijō Palace Remains

Address: 30 Noborioji-cho, Nara City 630-8501, Japan

Website: Heijō Palace Remains

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9am - 4:30pm (closed on Mon)

Price: Free

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15. Spend a meditative afternoon at Saidai-ji Temple

Spend a meditative afternoon at Saidai-ji Temple
Source: 乾口 達司

Also known as ‘The Great Western Temple’, Saidai-ji Temple is an ancient temple of Japanese Buddhism. Constructed in 765 AD, it was once part of the seven great temples of Nara, but repeated fires have reduced its size. One of Nara’s hidden gems, this temple complex has four main buildings, including the Main Hall that houses a standing wooden statue of Sakyamuni, 20 smaller buildings and various small ponds. The tranquil grounds of Saidai-ji Temple serve as the perfect spot to spend a quiet meditative afternoon in Nara.

Saidai-ji Temple

Address: 1-1-5 Saidaijishiba-machi, Nara, 631-0825, Japan

Opening hours: 9am - 4:30pm (daily)

Price: 3.77 USD

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16. Visit the Greek Parthenon-esque Tōshōdai-ji Temple


Founded in 759 by a Chinese monk of the Nara period, Tōshōdai-ji Temple is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The main hall of the temple looks very peculiar, almost like the Greek Parthenon, due to its row of pillars in the front. The beauty of the temple has served as an inspiration to many artists, writers and poets, and the temple has frequent mentions in many Japanese poems and other literature. The temple grounds are beautiful, quiet and serene, with green foliage everywhere.

Tōshōdai-ji Temple

Address: 13-46 Gojocho, Nara, 630-8032, Japan

Website: Tōshōdai-ji Temple

Opening hours: 8:30am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 5.65 USD

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17. Admire the architecture of Yakushiji Temple


Constructed in 680 AD, the stunning symmetry of Yakushiji Temple is immediately noticeable upon arrival. As one of Japan’s oldest temples, the unique feature of Yakushiji Temple is its appealing symmetric construction, where the main hall and lecture hall are right at the center of the building with a beautiful pagoda on either side. Visitors to Yakushiji Temple grounds can venture into the pagodas, halls, and covered areas of the temple to admire the architectural beauty of the temple.

Yakushiji Temple

Address: 457 Nishinokyocho, Nara, 630-8563, Japan

Website: Yakushiji Temple

Opening hours: 8:30am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 7.54 USD onwards

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18. Treat your kids to fun rides at Ikomasanjo Amusement Park

Treat your kids to fun rides at Ikomasanjo Amusement Park
Source: 旅人間

If you’re looking for activities to do in Nara with kids, head to Ikomasanjo Amusement Park located at the top of Mt. Ikoma. Ikomasanjo Amusement Park is a family theme park where your kids can enjoy many fun rides. The fun begins as soon as you take the cable line up to the entrance of the park. Kids can enjoy miniature golf, a merry-go-round, small rollercoasters, and many indoor games at the park. Parents and children can both enjoy amazing panoramic views of Nara and Osaka from the Ikomasanjo Amusement Park.

Ikomasanjo Amusement Park

Address: 2312-1 Nabatacho, Ikoma, Nara 630-0231, Japan

Website: Ikomasanjo Amusement Park

Opening hours: Fri - Wed: 10am - 5pm (closed on Thu)

Price: free

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19. Wander in the gardens of Yatadera Temple

Wander through the 10,000 hydrangeas of Yatadera Temple
Source: 高橋 樂

From June to early July, the Yatadera Temple comes alive with activity as people throng to its gardens to admire the 10,000 hydrangea bushes in full bloom. These flowers are native to Japan and have been cultivated here since the Nara Era. At the Hydrangea (Ajisai) Garden in the ancient Yatadera Temple, there are about 60 different species of the flower, which together contribute to make the 10,000 hydrangea bushes of this garden. In season, they are a riot of colors like pink, blue and purple adding a unique charm to this ancient tourist attraction in Nara.

Yatadera Temple

Address: 3549 Yatacho, Yamatokoriyama-shi, Nara-ken 639-1058

Website: Yatadera Temple

Opening hours: From June to early July

Price: 4.71 USD

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20. View the Hōryū-ji pagoda - the world's oldest wooden building

Five-storied Pagoda - Hōryū-ji - Ikaruga, Nara, Japan - DSC07573
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Daderot used under CC0

The first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Japan, Hōryū-ji Temple is home to one of the world’s oldest wooden buildings - the Hōryū-ji pagoda. This 32.5-meter (106-foot) tall five-story pagoda dates back to 607 AD and it is considered to be the oldest five-storied pagoda in Japan. Situated in the courtyard of the temple complex, the pagoda has a collection of clay statues from the Nara Period that depict scenes of the Buddha’s life. Walking around the grounds of the temple complex, look up and admire the beauty of this ancient pagoda.

Hōryū-ji pagoda

Address: 1-1-1 Horyuji Sannai, Ikaruga, Ikoma District, Nara 636-0115, Japan

Opening hours: 8am - 4:30pm (daily)

Price: 14.13 USD

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21. Snap photos of the azaleas at Chogakuji Temple

Snap photos of the spectacular azaleas at Chogakuji Temple
Source: 乾口 達司

Another beautiful temple in Nara, the ancient Chogakuji Temple is said to have been built around 824 AD. Besides its striking temple buildings, the traditional gardens and pond of the temple complex are also very beautiful. On the vast temple grounds, visitors can enjoy admiring and snapping pictures with the lovely azaleas in bloom. With stately azalea hedges adorning the main gate of the temple and more azaleas seen everywhere at Chogakuji Temple, is it any wonder that the temple is an important station on the 25 Flower Temples of Kansai Pilgrimage?

Chogakuji Temple

Address: 508 Yanagimotocho, Tenri, Nara 632-0052, Japan

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 3.30 USD

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22. Visit the tiger statues at Chogosonshi-ji

Visit the tiger statues at Chogosonshi-ji
Source: 高橋 樂

Perched on the slopes of Mt. Shigi, Chogosonshi-ji is a temple that is famous for its tiger statues. Also known as the ‘Tiger Temple’, there are several statues of tigers scattered throughout the temple grounds. And guarding the entrance is the world’s largest papier-mâché tiger, Fukutora. Not surprisingly, the temple is popular among kids, and adults can also enjoy learning about the legends associated with the tiger statues at this temple.

Chogosonshi-ji

Address: 2280-1 Shigisan, Heguri-cho, Ikoma-gun, Nara Prefecture, 636-0923, Japan

Website: Chogosonshi-ji

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

Price: Free

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23. Explore the historic temple town of Imaicho

street view in Imai-cho
Source: Photo by Flickr user Molly Des Jardin used under CC BY 2.0

At this wonderfully preserved historic temple town of Imaicho, visitors can get a glimpse of the traditional way of life of the olden days. Centered around the Shonenji Temple, the town of Imaicho has several traditional houses and shops that visitors can explore at their own pace. A few of the traditional style houses are open to the public, and a cafe is available for refreshments. Spend a few hours wandering through the quaint streets of the historic temple town of Imaicho.

Imaicho

Address: 1-10-9 Imaicho, Kashihara, Nara Prefecture, Japan

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24. Check out ancient Japanese artifacts at Isonokami Shrine

Isonokami-jingu Romon
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Yanajin33 used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Said to be founded in 4 AD, Isonokami Shrine is considered as one of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines. This ancient shrine is a culturally important landmark as it houses several ancient Japanese artifacts like the legendary Nanatsusaya-no-tachi sword that has three blades branching out from each side. Many other artifacts like iron shields, a suit of armor, other ancient weapons, mirrors, jewels and scarves are also said to be stored in this shrine.

Isonokami Shrine

Address: 384 Furucho, Tenri, Nara 632-0014, Japan

Website: Isonokami Shrine

Opening hours: 8:30am - 9pm (daily)

Price: Free

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25. Visit Muro-ji Temple located on Mt. Muro

室生寺の山門 Temple gate of Murō-ji 2013.4.13 - panoramio
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Nankou Oronain (a... used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Located on the sides of Mount Muro, the Muro-ji Temple is a quiet temple surrounded by a lush green forest. Despite its remote location and steep stone steps, devotees continue to throng to this temple. The temple has a magnificent five-story pagoda and it houses several national treasures of Japan like the statue of the eleven-faced Kannon and a wooden statue of Shaka Nyorai. But the best part of the Muro-ji Temple is the pure mountain air and tranquil beauty of its natural surroundings. A visit to this temple will surely invigorate and refresh you.

Muro-ji Temple

Address: 78 Murou, Uda, Nara 633-0421, Japan

Opening hours: 8:30am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 5.65 USD

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26. Run in the golden grasslands of Soni Kogen

Run through the golden grasslands of Soni Kogen
Source: 津田 泰輔

Lying on the western foothills between Mt. Kuroso and Mt. Kame are the golden grasslands of Soni Kogen where the tall Japanese pampas grass grows. Visitors can hike up to Soni Kogen to experience dramatic vistas of Nara and Mie prefectures. The hike takes just 20 minutes and once you get there, enjoy frolicking in the grassland that is spread out over 40 hectares (98 acres). The access point to Soni Kogen is from the Soni Highland Farm Garden or Noguchi Parking.

Soni Kogen

Address: Taroji, Soni, Uda District, Nara 633-1202, Japan

Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 4.71 USD

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27. Go on a pilgrimage to Takamatsuzuka Tomb


When in Nara, make time to visit the ancient Takamatsuzuka Tomb that is thought to have been constructed between the 7th and 8th centuries. It was accidentally discovered by a farmer digging in the area and was later excavated by archaeologists to reveal an elaborate crypt, complete with wall paintings and valuable artifacts, but the identity of the person for whom the tomb was built is unknown. Though the crypt is sealed, you can still visit it from the outside. Visitors can also view the recreations of the tomb and the paintings at the nearby Takamatsuzuka Mural Hall.

Takamatsuzuka Tomb

Address: 439 Hirata, Asuka, Takaichi District, Nara 634-0144, Japan

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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28. Visit the cherry blossom paradise of Mount Yoshino

From Mount Yoshino
Source: Photo by Flickr user Kimon Berlin used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Between late March to mid-April, visit the slopes of Mount Yoshino as they experience an explosion of cherry blossom blooms. There are about 30,000 cherry trees of 200 varieties planted all over the mountain, and in season, it turns the entire area into various shades of pink. The trees are sacred to the locals and visitors can enjoy almost an entire month of cherry blossom as the trees bloom progressively from the bottom to the top of the mountain.

Mount Yoshino

Address: Yoshino-cho, Yoshino-gun, Nara, Japan

Website: Mount Yoshino

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29. Drink the famous spring water of Dorogawa

Drink the famous spring water of Dogawa
Source: 旅人間

Springing from the nearby Goyomatsu Limestone Cave, the waters of Dorogawa are pure and can be drunk straight from the source. Situated in a cedar forest, the spring is a popular tourist spot. The water from Dorogawa Spring is called Gorogoro Mizu and it is recognized as one of 100 purest water sources in Japan, noted for their unique properties and local efforts to conserve their purity.

Dorogawa

Address: 686-139 Dorogawa, Nara, Japan

Website: Dorogawa

Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)

Price: 4.71 USD

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30. Trek up the splendid Mount Ōdaigahara

Odaigahara Yama
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Merec0 used under CC BY 2.0

Mount Ōdaigahara is a mountain in the Daikō Mountain Range that is popular among locals and tourists in the Nara region for the amazing views that it offers from the top. To reach the top, you have to trek up the mountain and there are several trails to choose from. Trails of various lengths and difficulties start from the parking lot of the visitor center, but generally, the total journey takes about three hours. Spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and forests await you at the end of your trek up Mount Ōdaigahara.

Mount Ōdaigahara

Address: Kotochi, Kamikitayama-mura, Yoshino-gun 639-3702, Nara Prefecture

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31. Cross the scenic Tanize Suspension Bridge

Suspension bridge of Tanize 2010.07.28 - 35
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Tamago Moffle used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Said to be one of the longest suspension bridges in Japan, the Tanize Suspension Bridge was built in 1954. Constructed across the Totsukawa River at a height of 54 meters (177 feet), the bridge connects the villages of Uenochi and Tanize. The bridge is 297 meters (0.18 miles) long and swings as you walk across it. But many tourists regularly visit Tanize Suspension Bridge for the thrill of crossing a bridge suspended at such a great height.

Tanize Suspension Bridge

Address: Tanize, Totsukawa, Yoshino District, Nara 637-1106, Japan

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: free

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32. Take a boat ride through rugged Dorokyo Gorge


Dorokyo Gorge is a 31-kilometer (19-mile) long gorge formed by the Kitayama River that runs through Nara, Wakayama and Mie prefectures. The gorge is an area of outstanding natural beauty with rugged cliffs, emerald green water of the river and the lush green forest area. And the best way to experience the beauty of Dorokyo is on a boat ride. It is a popular spot for a boat cruise and provides visitors with opportunities to take in the scenic views of the rugged scenery.

Dorokyo Gorge

Address: Taketou, Totsukawa, Yoshino

Website: Dorokyo Gorge

Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)

Price: Approximately 21.29 USD

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33. Explore traditional cuisine in a rural environment (from USD 330.0)

Embark on a transformative three-day Fermentation Stay Program in Nara, delving into authentic rural Japanese life. Reside in a local home where you’ll be enveloped in the rich tapestry of tradition. Master the art of crafting traditional Japanese dishes with locally sourced ingredients. Uncover the pivotal role of fermented foods in Japanese cuisine and learn their culinary applications.

During the tour, you can also traverse the historic Yamanobe Trail and its picturesque environs. Forge meaningful connections with your passionate local host, gaining profound insights into Japanese culture during this immersive cultural exchange.

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3-Day Fermentation Stay Program in Nara

Duration: 72hours

34. Learn to make vegan bento box (from USD 136.0)

Unearth the essence of Japanese vegan cuisine with the byFood Vegan Wabi Sabi Bento Box Making and Dessert experience in Nara. Engage in a hands-on cooking class crafting exquisite vegan sushi bento boxes, guided by expert instructors. Additionally, learn the art of crafting kakinoha-zushi, a local speciality where rice is enveloped in a persimmon leaf to add a distinctive flavour.

Toast to the occasion with a sake reception upon arrival. Delight in a curated selection of matcha tea and a refreshing fermented fruit drink. At the end, you can take home your culinary creations in an authentic bento box wrapped in a traditional furoshiki cloth.

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Vegan Wabi Sabi Bento Box Making with Dessert in Nara

Duration: 4hours

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35. Learn about classic bento boxes (from USD 136.0)

Embark on a culinary journey with the Classic Chicken Meatballs and Omelet Bento Making experience in Nara. Craft a traditional Japanese bento showcasing tamagoyaki (a rolled omelette), succulent tsukune (chicken meatballs), a delectable teriyaki sauce, and a unique stovetop rice preparation method. Indulge in the renowned regional dessert, Warabi-mochi.

Your guide will be a local expert dedicated to sharing wholesome, flavorful cuisine. Gain insights into Japanese culture as you learn the art of setting a traditional table and wrapping a bento box with a furoshiki cloth. Depart with a beautifully arranged bento box and a furoshiki cloth, a memento of this enriching experience.

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Classic Chicken Meatballs and Omelet Bento Making in Nara

Duration: 4hours

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A memorable trip

Le Daibutsu-den, la salle du Grand Bouddha (Nara, Japon) (29035425778)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Jean-Pierre Dalbéra used under CC BY 2.0

With stiff competition from the likes of Kyoto and Tokyo, Nara manages to attract tourists with its plethora of historic landmarks and areas of natural beauty. Home to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ancient temples, and majestic mountains, Nara has attractions for every type of visitor. And with our list of all the things to do in Nara, Japan, you are sure to have a memorable trip!

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Frequently asked questions about things to do in Nara, Japan

1. What are the most popular things to do in Nara with kids?

Have a fun time in Nara with kids by interacting with deer in Nara Park, riding on thrilling roller coasters in Ikomasanjo Amusement Park, and checking out the tiger statues in the temple of Chogosonshi-ji.

2. What are the top attractions to visit in Nara?

Some of the favorite tourist spots in Nara include the beautiful Isui-en Garden and Neiraku Museum of Art, Todaji Temple, Nara National Museum, and the cherry blossom paradise of Mount Yoshino.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Isha is a former corporate employee who now leads a tranquil life centered around travel, writing, and minding her own business.

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