About Nara
Nara Prefecture, Japan's first permanent capital from 710 to 784, offers travelers an enchanting journey through ancient Japan. This compact region is famous for its sacred deer that roam freely through Nara Park, bowing politely for treats—a magical experience that embodies the harmony between nature and culture. The UNESCO World Heritage sites here are breathtaking: Todai-ji Temple houses the world's largest bronze Buddha statue in its magnificent wooden hall, while Kasuga Taisha Shrine's thousands of stone lanterns create an ethereal atmosphere. Beyond the historic capital, Nara reveals diverse landscapes from the Yoshino Mountains—renowned for spectacular cherry blossom viewing—to the tranquil Asuka region with its ancient burial mounds. Visitors can savor local specialties like kakinoha-zushi (persimmon leaf sushi) and experience traditional crafts like ink-making and tea ceremony culture. Nara's intimate scale allows travelers to walk between major attractions, creating a deeply immersive historical experience where Japan's spiritual and artistic heritage comes alive.
Things to do in Nara
Perfect Nara Park Half-Day Bus Tour with English Speaking Guide
Nara, Nara Prefecture
From GHS 700
5.0 (53)
Private Nara Tour and Sake Tasting (Departing from Kyoto/Nara)
Nara, Nara Prefecture
From GHS 1,748
5.0 (45)
Sushi Making Experience Luxury Course in Nara
Nara, Nara Prefecture
From GHS 1,231
5.0 (36)
Kyoto Private Tour Full Day with Local Guide&Nara Option(PerGroup
Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture
From GHS 5,384
5.0 (23)
Nara:Tea Tasting&Private Tea Ceremony -Master Matcha Making-
Nara, Nara Prefecture
From GHS 672
5.0 (19)
Nara: Half-Day Private Tour of 4 Must-See Spots & Deer Park
Nara, Nara Prefecture
From GHS 2,378
5.0 (12)
Nara Sake Tasting Tour at Local Brewerie(tasting fee included)
Nara, Nara Prefecture
From GHS 1,189
5.0 (12)
Nara Todaiji Lazy Bird Walking Tour
Nara, Nara Prefecture
From GHS 929
5.0 (11)
Nara Private Day Trip - Enjoy Your First-Time Visit to Nara!
Nara, Nara Prefecture
From GHS 1,049
5.0 (11)
Nara - Private Family Bike Tour
Nara, Nara Prefecture
From GHS 2,098
5.0 (8)
Nara: Authentic Onigiri Cooking Class & Meal in a Local Home
Nara, Nara Prefecture
From GHS 627
5.0 (8)
Relax in Nara: Deer Park, Todai-ji Temple and Merchants' Town
Nara, Nara Prefecture
From GHS 1,265
5.0 (6)
Nara: UNESCO World Heritage Sites Slow Cycling Tour
Nara, Nara Prefecture
From GHS 1,385
5.0 (6)
Village to village walk: Japan's oldest road, Yamanobe ancient trail (Private)
Nara, Nara Prefecture
From GHS 1,049
5.0 (5)
Udon and Tempura Cooking Class in Nara
Nara, Nara Prefecture
Travel Tips for Nara
Getting Around
Nara's compact city center is highly walkable. The Kintetsu and JR rail lines connect major attractions, with day passes available. Buses serve wider areas including Kasuga Taisha and outlying temples. Bicycle rentals are excellent for exploring Nara Park and surrounding areas. Taxis are readily available but expensive. For rural areas like Yoshino, trains and buses are primary options. Popular apps include Google Maps (for transit), Japan Travel by NAVITIME, and Japanese dictionary apps. The Nara City Bus One-Day Pass offers unlimited rides on tourist routes.
Best Time To Visit
Late March to early April for cherry blossoms (especially in Yoshino), October to November for autumn foliage with comfortable temperatures, and September for the traditional lantern festivals. Avoid Golden Week (late April/early May) and Obon (mid-August) when domestic tourism peaks. Summer (June-August) can be hot and humid, while winter (December-February) offers fewer crowds but colder temperatures.
Local Customs
Bow slightly when deer bow to you—it's a charming local interaction. Remove shoes before entering temple buildings and homes. Speak quietly in sacred spaces. Photography restrictions apply in some temple interiors. Tipping is not practiced in Japan. Dress modestly when visiting shrines and temples. Avoid eating while walking in historic districts. When offering prayers at shrines, follow the ritual: bow twice, clap twice, bow once. Be respectful of monks and priests performing ceremonies.
Safety Information
Nara is exceptionally safe with low crime rates. Exercise normal precautions in crowded tourist areas like Nara Park against pickpocketing. The deer, while generally gentle, can become aggressive if they smell food—keep treats hidden and avoid teasing. Some temples have steep stairs and uneven paths requiring proper footwear. Avoid hiking alone in remote mountain areas without proper preparation. No specific neighborhoods require avoidance, though standard nighttime precautions apply. Be cautious of unofficial tour guides offering services near major attractions.
Health Information
Nara has excellent medical facilities including Nara Medical University Hospital and several general hospitals. No special vaccinations are required beyond routine travel recommendations. Tap water is safe to drink. Be aware of seasonal allergies (especially cedar pollen in spring) and heatstroke during humid summers. Pharmacies (yakkyoku) are widely available, but bring any prescription medications with original packaging. Travel insurance is recommended as medical costs can be high for foreigners. English-speaking doctors may be limited outside major hospitals.
Languages Spoken
Japanese
Quick Facts
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
¥
¥
Timezone
Asia/Tokyo +09:00 (GMT)
Calling Code
+81
Electricity
Driving Side
Left
Population
1.32 million
Area
3691 km²
Government
Prefectural government with elected governor and assembly
ISO Code
29