Nara (prefecture) Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and local culture and customs of Nara (Prefecture), Japan. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Nara (Prefecture)

Located in the Kansai region, Nara (prefecture) is one of Japan’s historic regions that played a significant role in the development of the country. With ancient temples, beautiful gardens, and natural wonders, Nara offers visitors a glimpse of Japanese history and culture. While a visit to Nara can be a bit overwhelming, our comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your trip and make the most out of your visit to this beautiful region.

List of Places to Visit in Nara (Prefecture)

If you’re planning a trip to Nara, make sure to visit these must-see attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Todai-ji Temple
  • Nara National Museum
  • Kasuga-taisha Shrine
  • Naramachi
  • Horyu-ji Temple

Natural Attractions of Nara (Prefecture): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Yoshino-Kumano National Park
  • Mount Yoshino
  • Asuka-Fujiwara Heritage Park
  • Mount Kasuga Primeval Forest
  • Nara Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nara (Prefecture)

Exploring Nara’s trails is one of the best ways anyone can traverse the prefecture. Here are some of the most popular hiking/biking routes:

  • Asuka Historical Cycling Course
  • Yoshino Mikumari Shrine Hiking Trail
  • Katsuragi Koma Shrines Hiking Trail
  • Hiking up Mount Wakakusa
  • Hiking up Mount Yoshino

Best Things to Do in Nara (Prefecture): Activities and Tours

There are plenty of things to do and explore in Nara. Here are some of the best:

  • Visit Nara’s traditional festivals
  • Participate in tea ceremonies and pottery making
  • Try your hand at dressing up in a kimono or yukata
  • Go on a guided tour around the famous temples of Nara
  • Enjoy traditional Japanese arts and performances at the Nara Arts Festival in October

Week-Long Itinerary for Nara (Prefecture)

Planning a week-long itinerary for Nara can be overwhelming, but here’s an idea of how to spend your time in Nara:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Nara Park and its famous deer
Day 2 Visit Todai-ji Temple, Nara National Museum, and Kasuga-taisha Shrine
Day 3 Take a hike up Mount Yoshino
Day 4 Take a guided tour around Horyu-ji Temple and Naramachi
Day 5 Experience a traditional Japanese ceremony in Asuka-Fujiwara Heritage Park
Day 6 Take a stroll through the Yoshino-Kumano National Park
Day 7 Visit Mount Kasuga Primeval Forest and Kofukuji Temple

Food and Drink Scene of Nara (Prefecture)

Experience the local flavors of Nara while you’re here. Make sure to try these must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kaki-no-hazushi (Oyster sushi)
  • Kudzu-mochi
  • Mino-yaki (Grilled eel)
  • Tsukemono (Pickles)
  • Somen (Noodle soup)

Local Beverages

  • Nara Wine
  • Japanese Sake
  • Nara Tea
  • Shiga’s Biwa juice

Where to Stay in Nara (Prefecture): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Nara offers an array of accommodation options suitable for every budget. Here are some of the best places for you to stay in Nara:

  • Nara Royal Hotel
  • The Deer Park Inn
  • Hotel Pagoda
  • Nara Visitor Center and Inn
  • Nara Kenko Land Plaza

What to Buy in Nara (Prefecture): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Take a piece of Nara with you as you leave the prefecture by purchasing these souvenirs and local products:

  • Kudzu-mochi sweets
  • Kaki-no-hazushi (Oyster sushi)
  • Somen (Noodle soup)
  • Shika-Senbei (Deer crackers)
  • Kofuku-ji Buddha statue

Local Culture and Customs of Nara (Prefecture)

While traveling to Nara, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the local culture and customs of the region:

  • Shoes must always be removed before stepping on tatami flooring.
  • Bowing is a common way of showing respect.
  • Simply tipping is not customary in Japan.
  • Bringing chocolates and souvenirs is a common way of showing appreciation and respect.

Best Time to Visit Nara (Prefecture)

The best time to visit Nara is in the fall months of September to November, when the weather is mild, and the autumn colors are at their peak. Winters are also a popular time to visit Nara, albeit chilly. Spring is another popular time for cherry blossom viewing and festival attendance.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nara (Prefecture)

Here are some essential do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Nara:

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Bow when greeting and thanking people.
  • Try the local food and drinks.
  • Take off your shoes when entering traditional Japanese establishments.
  • Follow cleanup policies by disposing of trash properly.

Don’t:

  • Touch or feed the deer, especially during the mating season.
  • Enter restricted areas unless accompanied by an official guide.
  • Smoke in public areas unless designated smoking areas.
  • Shout, make loud noises or play loud music in public areas.

Safety and Health

While Nara is a reasonably safe destination, it’s essential to take care of your health and safety seriously.

Safety in Nara (Prefecture)

  • Keep a copy of your passport and other identification documents with you at all times.
  • Take extra care when walking around at night.
  • Keep valuables secure at all times.
  • Always follow traffic laws and signals.

Health in Nara (Prefecture)

  • Make sure to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated at all times.
  • Have a basic grasp of first aid and know how to call emergency services if needed.

Getting to Nara (Prefecture): Transportation Options and Logistics

Nara is easily accessible via the following transportation options:

Airports Near Nara (Prefecture)

  • Kansai International Airport
  • Itami Airport

Bus Stations Near Nara (Prefecture)

  • Nara Bus Terminal
  • Kintetsu Nara Station

Other Options

  • Trains via the Japan Railway (JR) and Kintetsu Railway networks.

How to Get Around in Nara (Prefecture)

Getting around in Nara is made easy with the following transportation options:

  • Taxis
  • Buses
  • Rental cars/scooters
  • Walking

Where to Go Next from Nara (Prefecture): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Nara, there are other nearby destinations and excursions worth checking out:

  • Osaka (30 min train ride)
  • Kyoto (45 min train ride)
  • Kobe (1.5 hours train ride)
  • Wakayama (1.5 hours train ride)
  • Hiroshima (3-hour train ride)

Conclusion

Nara is a beautiful region packed with history, culture, and natural wonders. With our comprehensive travel guide, you’re sure to have a memorable time exploring Nara’s temples, hiking trails, and local flavors. Plan your trip and embrace the local customs and traditions of one of Japan’s most historic regions.

Ishibutai Burial Mound in Asuka Ishibutai Burial Mound in Asuka Tanzan Shrine, Sakurai Tanzan Shrine, Sakurai


    Horyuji
    Kashihara
    Uda
    Yoshino