Exclusive travel logo

Exploring Nara in Japan
Search hotels in Japan

write a travel review
Nara, Japan, is a historic city known for its rich cultural heritage and ancient temples. As the capital of Japan in the 8th century, it holds many UNESCO World Heritage Sites and offers a serene and beautiful environment for visitors.
panoramic image of nara
Top locations: Hiroshima - Kanazawa - Kyoto - Mount Fuji - Nara - Osaka - Sapporo - Takayama - Tokyo

Visitors guide to Nara:



Todai-ji Temple1. Todai-ji Temple
Overview: One of Japan’s most famous and historically significant temples, Todai-ji is home to the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world.
Highlights: The Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall), massive wooden architecture, and beautiful temple grounds.
World Heritage Site: Yes
Tip: Don’t miss the smaller statues and sacred relics around the temple complex.
Nara Park2. Nara Park
Overview: A vast park in the heart of Nara where more than 1,000 friendly deer roam freely. The deer are considered sacred and are a symbol of the city.
Highlights: Feeding and interacting with the tame deer, enjoying the scenic landscape, and visiting nearby temples and shrines.
Tip: Purchase “shika senbei” (deer crackers) from vendors to feed the deer, but be cautious—they can be assertive!

Kasuga Taisha Shrine3. Kasuga Taisha Shrine
Overview: This ancient Shinto shrine is famous for its thousands of stone and bronze lanterns, which line the paths and are illuminated during special festivals.
Highlights: Lantern-lined walkways, beautiful gardens, and the Kasuga Primeval Forest nearby.
World Heritage Site: Yes
Tip: Visit during the Lantern Festivals (Setsubun in February and Obon in August) to see the lanterns lit up.
Kofuku-ji Temple4. Kofuku-ji Temple
Overview: A key temple in Nara’s history, Kofuku-ji is known for its iconic five-story pagoda, which is the second tallest in Japan.
Highlights: The five-story and three-story pagodas, National Treasure Museum with exquisite Buddhist art, and peaceful temple grounds.
World Heritage Site: Yes
Tip: Visit the museum to see national treasures, including ancient Buddha statues.
Nara National Museum5. Nara National Museum
Overview: A museum dedicated to Buddhist art, housing one of the largest collections of religious artifacts in Japan.
Highlights: Buddhist statues, ancient scrolls, and religious relics from Nara’s historical temples.
Tip: Check out the annual exhibition of sacred treasures from Todai-ji Temple in October and November.

Isuien Garden6. Isuien Garden
Overview: A traditional Japanese garden known for its exquisite landscaping and views of Todai-ji Temple’s Nandaimon Gate and Mount Wakakusa in the background.
Highlights: Beautifully manicured gardens, ponds, and teahouses that offer a relaxing stroll through nature.
Tip: Combine your visit with a stop at nearby Yoshikien Garden, which is free for foreign tourists.

Horyu-ji Temple7. Horyu-ji Temple
Overview: Located just outside of Nara, this temple complex is the world’s oldest wooden structure, dating back to the 7th century.
Highlights: The five-story pagoda, ancient wooden buildings, and historical artifacts.
World Heritage Site: Yes
Tip: Explore the Gojunoto (five-story pagoda) and Kondo (main hall), which are among the world’s oldest wooden buildings.
Mount Wakakusa8. Mount Wakakusa
Overview: A small mountain located east of Nara Park, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.
Highlights: Hiking trails, seasonal cherry blossoms, and the annual Wakakusa Yamayaki (mountain burning) festival in January.
Tip: Hike to the top for a stunning view of the Nara cityscape, especially during sunset.

Yoshikien Garden9. Yoshikien Garden
Overview: A beautiful garden featuring three distinct styles—pond garden, moss garden, and tea ceremony garden.
Highlights: Traditional Japanese landscaping, peaceful atmosphere, and seasonal colors.
Tip: Entrance is free for foreign visitors, making it an excellent stop after Isuien Garden.

Heijo Palace10. Heijo Palace
Overview: Once the Imperial Palace during the Nara period (710–794), the Heijo Palace Site is a large archaeological site that recreates the grandeur of the ancient capital.
Highlights: The Suzaku Gate, historical exhibitions, and seasonal events that recreate Nara period ceremonies.
World Heritage Site: Yes
Tip: Visit the reconstructed Daigokuden Hall and explore the museum to learn more about Nara’s imperial history.
Nara's attractions provide a perfect mix of historical, cultural, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in Japan's ancient past.

Exclusive Travel Group on Social Media


Facebook Travel Photos luxury travel vacations Linkedin Excluss Travel social media travel images Pinterest Jamaica Travel holiday travel photos Twitter Ed Excluss Travelluxury travel holidays Daily Motion Travel Videosexclusive holidays across the world YouTubeTravel Videos