Overview
Nara was the capital of Japan in the 8th century, and many temples and shrines from that era survive. Historic monuments of ancient Nara are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Most sights are in or near Nara Park, where hundreds of deer, regarded as messengers of the gods, wander freely and bow for special crackers.
Best time to visit
Spring and autumn are most pleasant. Deer can be pushy, so keep food away and follow guidance in the park.
Highlights
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1
Tōdai-ji
A huge wooden hall housing a great bronze Buddha.
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2
Nara Park
Lawns and woods with free-roaming deer.
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3
Kasuga Taisha
A shrine with thousands of stone and bronze lanterns.
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4
Kōfuku-ji
A temple with a five-storey pagoda.
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5
Naramachi
An old merchant quarter with traditional houses.
Getting there
Kintetsu trains from Osaka Namba to Kintetsu-Nara take about 40 minutes; JR trains run from Osaka station. Nara Park is a short walk from Kintetsu-Nara.
Practical tips
- Opening & tickets
- Opening times, ticket rules and transport timetables change, so check official information before you go.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Official information: Visit Nara (official website). Check opening hours, prices and entry rules there before you go.
Map
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