Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital, packs a remarkable amount of history and charm into a small, walkable area. This master guide pulls together all of our Nara coverage in one place, from the great temples and sacred deer to the best neighborhoods for finding a hotel. Use it as the starting point for planning a memorable day or overnight stay in the ancient capital.
Plan Your Visit
Most travelers visit Nara as a day trip from Kyoto or Osaka, but an overnight stay lets you enjoy the park before the crowds. A single full day is enough to see Kofuku-ji, Todai-ji and the Great Buddha, the deer of Nara Park, and the lanterns of Kasuga Taisha, all within walking distance of one another.
What to Eat
Nara has its own culinary specialties worth seeking out. Try kakinoha-zushi, sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves, and miwa somen, fine wheat noodles from the region. Mochi pounded fresh at the famous shop near Kofuku-ji is a fun local treat, best enjoyed between temple visits.
With its ancient temples, sacred deer, and lantern-lit paths, Nara offers some of the most rewarding sightseeing in Japan. Explore the full guides below to build the trip that suits you.
Nara Travel Guides
- Todai-ji Temple, Nara: Home of the Great Buddha
- Nara Park: Meeting the Famous Bowing Deer
- Kasuga Taisha, Nara: The Shrine of a Thousand Lanterns
- Kofuku-ji, Nara: The Iconic Five-Story Pagoda
For an overview, start with our Nara Travel Guide.
