Day Trip to Nara: Places to Visit and Foods to Try

Nara Prefecture is the cradle of ancient Japan and was once home to Heijo-kyo, the capital during the Nara period. With its abundance of historical landmarks, World Heritage sites, and iconic Buddhist statues, Nara offers an unparalleled experience for history enthusiasts and those who wish to immerse themselves in Japan’s rich cultural heritage.

This article is your guide to a perfect day trip in Nara, introducing the best places to visit and foods to savor during your journey.

Nara Prefecture is home to a large number of shrines and temples, many of which are designated as National Treasures or Important Cultural Properties.

Here we’ll introduce some of the most recommended shrines and temples to visit during a day trip to Nara.

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東大寺 / Tōdaiji Temple(@todaiji.official)がシェアした投稿

Todai-ji Temple, built by Emperor Shomu during the Nara period (710–794),is one of Japan’s most historic and significant temples. The Great Buddha Hall (Daibutsuden), located within the temple grounds, is renowned as one of the largest wooden structures in the world.

Inside the hall, the temple’s principal deity, the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), is enshrined. It stands at an impressive height of approximately 15 meters and is truly monumental, often leaving visitors awestruck when viewing it up close.

Another highlight is the Hokke-do Hall (Sangatsu-do), featuring exemplary Buddhist statues from the Tenpyo era that reflect the artistry of that period.

Hours of Operation:

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出典：東大寺「拝観時間・拝観料」

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春日大社/Kasugataisha Shrine(@kasugataisha.official)がシェアした投稿

Kasuga Taisha Shrine, constructed in its current location in 768 by order of Empress Shotoku, serves as the head shrine for over 3,000 Kasuga Shrines across Japan.

The shrine grounds are adorned with a variety of hanging lanterns and stone lanterns that all showcase intricate designs. Twice a year, during the Setsubun Festival in February and on August 14th and 15th, all the lanterns are lit, creating a mystical and awe-inspiring scene that draws visitors from near and far.

The visiting hours and admission fees for Kasuga Taisha Shrine are as follows:

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Admission Fees

Kofuku-ji Temple was established in 710 when Fujiwara no Fuhito relocated its predecessor, Yamazakadera Temple, to its current location. Since then, emperors and the Fujiwara clan have constructed numerous towers and halls.

The spacious temple grounds offer plenty of attractions for visitors, as they are home to the Eastern Golden Hall, Central Golden Hall, Five-story Pagoda, and the National Treasure Hall.

Below are the visiting hours and admission fees for Kofuku-ji Temple. Please note that admission fees are scheduled to increase starting April 1, 2025.

Hours of Operation:

Admission Fees

Until March 31, 2025

出典：興福寺「拝観情報」

From April 1, 2025

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法相宗大本山 薬師寺(@yakushiji_nara)がシェアした投稿

Yakushiji Temple was originally established in 680 by Emperor Tenmu and relocated to its current location in 718. At the center of the temple stands the Golden Hall (Kondo), flanked by towers on both the east and west sides.

The Golden Hall enshrines the temple’s principal deity, the Yakushi Triad (Yakushi Sanzon), a representation of the Buddha of healing. On the east side, the East Pagoda (Toto) remains a surviving structure from the temple’s founding and is designated as a National Treasure.

The visiting hours and admission fees for Yakushiji Temple are as follows:

Hours of Operation

Admission Fees

出典：薬師寺「拝観のご案内」

Horyu-ji Temple was built during the Asuka period (593–710) by Prince Shotoku. The temple is divided into two areas: the Western Precinct and the Eastern Precinct, the latter being home to the world’s oldest existing wooden structures.

The expansive grounds offer no shortage of highlights. At the entrance to the Western Precinct, you will find the Central Gate, which features a pair of well-known Nio Guardian Statues. Other must-see spots include the Golden Hall, which houses the National Treasure Shaka Triad, and the Five-story Pagoda, enshrining relics of the Buddha.

Below are the visiting hours and admission fees for Horyu-ji Temple. Please note that fees are scheduled to increase starting March 1, 2025.

Hours of Operation

Admission Fees

Until February 28, 2025

出典：法隆寺「拝観のご案内」

From March 1, 2025

出典：法隆寺「令和7年3月1日よりの拝観料金改定について」

In addition to its famous shrines and temples, Nara Prefecture also offers plenty of other attractions that visitors may enjoy.If you’re visiting Nara for the first time and planning a day trip, exploring the areas around Nara City is highly recommended.

Here are some of the must-visit tourist spots in the Nara City area.

春日大社境内の鹿苑にて6月30日まで「子鹿公開」を行っています！お母さん鹿165頭が保護されていて65頭の赤ちゃん鹿が生まれています。（6月1日現在）詳しくはホームページをご覧ください。https://t.co/6ypQagpDxP pic.twitter.com/TQP6N93JaM

— 奈良公園-Nara Park【公式】 (@narapark0214) June 16, 2023

Nara Park is an expansive park covering approximately 660 hectares. It is well known as a place to interact with freely roaming deer, but its appeal goes far beyond that.The park is surrounded by UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Todai-ji Temple, Kofuku-ji Temple, and Kasuga Taisha Shrine, as well as cultural landmarks like the National Museum and Shosoin Treasure House. Additionally, the untouched natural beauty of Kasugayama Primeval Forest, a rare example of pristine woodland, is just a short walk away.

The park itself is rich in nature, with cherry blossoms, pine trees, autumn leaves, and plum blossoms adding seasonal beauty throughout the year.Around 1,300 deer roam freely within the park. While they are wild animals, you can feed them special deer crackers which are available for purchase. However, please make sure to refrain from feeding them anything other than the designated food.

Basic Information

浮見堂と桜(^o^)
水面に桜の色が入って、ナイスだね！#奈良公園 #浮見堂 #奈良市 #おでかけ pic.twitter.com/dyJkNqP9Pa

— 奈良県公式 (@narakencyou) April 14, 2017

Ukimi-do is a hexagonal gazebo that appears to float on Sagi Pond within Nara Park. Built in 1916, it underwent extensive restoration from 1991 to 1994 due to aging. Its reflection on the pond creates a picturesque scene, making it a favorite spot for visitors.

The area around the pond is abundant in nature, and provieds stunning views throughout the seasons. Spring brings cherry blossoms, summer features the Nara Tokae Festival, and autumn draws crowds to admire the vibrant foliage. The Tokae Festival is a candle-lit event that beautifully illuminates the park.

Basic Information

今朝の #ならまち

奈良の市街地はめったに雪が降りませんが、今朝は積もっています⛄️

道路がところどころ凍結していますので、お越しの際はお気をつけくださいね pic.twitter.com/QjzZcBPdE2

— 【公式：奈良町にぎわい課】奈良町観光情報 (@nara_c_naramati) January 25, 2023

Located around the historic Gango-ji Temple, Naramachi is a charming district filled with traditional townhouses dating from the late Edo period (1603–1868) to the Meiji period (1868–1912).

A distinctive feature of the old townhouses here is their narrow frontages and deep interiors, a traditional architectural style. Many of these homes have lattice doors on their facades, and some display red amulets. These amulets, shaped like monkeys—said to be messengers of Buddha—are believed to protect residents by taking on misfortunes in their stead.

Naramachi is home to various cafés, craft shops, and stores offering traditional goods, and is an ideal destination for a leisurely stroll.

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【今日の奈良公園】
若草山山頂から撮影した写真だよ(*^_^*)空気が澄んでれば、こんな絶景が見れるんだぁ〜♪♪仲良しの鹿さんたちものんびり眺めてたよ⭐︎
詳しくは、下のリンク先でチェック(^-^)/#奈良 #奈良公園 https://t.co/ej4FXmds2X pic.twitter.com/otkL7CYT8W

— 奈良県公式 (@narakencyou) September 25, 2017

Mount Wakakusa is a gently sloping hill covered in grass that boasts a unique shape formed by three overlapping peaks. With an elevation of 342 meters, the summit is home to a historic site, the Uguisuzuka Burial Mound. From the peak, visitors can enjoy stunning views of landmarks like Todai-ji Temple and Kofuku-ji Temple.

Every year, on the fourth Saturday of January, the traditional Wakakusa Yamayaki event is held to pray for peace. This spectacular event begins at 6:15 PM with fireworks, followed by the ceremonial burning of the hillside starting at 6:30 PM.

Visitors can access Mount Wakakusa through two entrances: the South Gate and the North Gate.

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【奈良ひがしむき】当ひがしむき商店街では本日３月２６日（月）午前９時より商店街の一斉掃除を行っております。通行中の皆様には大変ご迷惑をおかけいたしますがどうぞご容赦くださいませ。なお約１時間ほどで終了する予定です。 #奈良 #nara pic.twitter.com/VKXO04T1RU

— 奈良ひがしむき商店街です (@narahigashimuki) March 26, 2018

Higashimuki Shopping Street is located right outside the east exit of Kintetsu Nara Station.With roots dating back to around 1915, this historic shopping arcade has long been a central hub for locals and visitors alike. It is a convenient stop during your Nara sightseeing trip, as it is in close proximity to landmarks such as Kofuku-ji Temple, Naramachi, and Nara Park.

The arcade is fully covered, so you can enjoy shopping and dining without worrying about the weather. Approximately 80 shops line the street, offering a variety of restaurants, cafés, and specialty stores. Always bustling with locals and tourists, the shopping street is a vibrant and lively destination.

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柿の葉すし本舗たなか【公式】(@kakinohasushi_tanaka)がシェアした投稿

Nara Prefecture is a region steeped in history, and when visiting, why not try some of its traditional dishes that have been enjoyed for centuries?

Here are some of the must-try Nara-specific dishes perfect for your day trip. Don’t miss out on savoring the flavors of Nara’s unique cuisine!

Kaki no Ha Sushi is a type of pressed sushi made by placing thinly sliced salted mackerel on top of vinegared rice and wrapping it in a persimmon leaf. The salted mackerel is prepared by soaking freshly caught mackerel in brine and drying it, resulting in a flavorful balance of saltiness and umami.

Different from the more commonly known sushi, where small portions of vinegared rice are topped with slices of fish, pressed sushi (oshizushi) is made by layering vinegared rice and fish in a box, then pressing them together into a compact form.

The persimmon leaf is believed to have natural preservative properties, which allowed people in inland areas far from the sea to enjoy fish.

The combination of vinegared rice infused with the rich flavor of mackerel and the subtle aroma of persimmon leaves is simply delightful. It’s a must-try! While salted mackerel is the classic topping, other varieties of fish are sometimes used for Kaki no Ha Sushi as well.

Yoshino Kudzu refers to kudzu starch produced in the Yoshino region of Nara Prefecture. Kudzu is a leguminous plant, and its roots are crushed, refined with cold water, and dried repeatedly to extract a pure, starchy white powder known as kudzu starch.

The Yoshino region, blessed with a cool climate and pristine water, provides the perfect conditions for producing high-quality kudzu starch. As such, Yoshino Kudzu is renowned for its exceptional quality.

Kudzu starch is widely used in cooking and traditional Japanese sweets. One of the most famous sweets made with kudzu starch is Kudzu Mochi, a transparent jelly-like dessert created by dissolving kudzu starch in water, heating it, and then cooling it to set. It is typically enjoyed with toppings like roasted soybean flour (kinako) and sugar syrup.

Nara-zuke is a type of pickled vegetable made by salting vegetables and then repeatedly marinating them in sake lees until they develop a rich amber color. Sake lees, a byproduct of sake production, is a white, solid substance that contains alcohol and has a fragrant sake aroma. The marination period is long, with some producers aging the pickles for over five years.

Some of the most common vegetables used in Nara-zuke include white gourd (shiro-uri), cucumbers, eggplants, and daikon radishes. Other vegetables like carrots, onions, and lotus roots are also sometimes used. The pickles have a slightly sweet flavor with a touch of saltiness and a subtle aroma of sake.

If you purchase Nara-zuke as a souvenir to enjoy at home, remove only the portion you wish to eat, gently wipe off the sake lees with a paper towel, and cut it into bite-sized pieces for serving.

Somen is a type of thin, white noodle that has been a staple in Japanese cuisine for centuries. Among Japan’s many somen-producing regions, Miwa Somen boasts the longest history. It is even praised in the Edo period’s Nihon Sankai Meibutsu Zue (Illustrated Book of Japanese Products), which describes Miwa Somen as “superior to any other somen.”

Generally, somen is made from wheat flour, water, and a small amount of salt, resulting in its signature white color. In recent years, colorful variations of Miwa Somen, made by kneading vegetables into the dough, have also become available.

When ordering somen at a restaurant, it is commonly served cold, accompanied by a dipping sauce. There are also warm dishes featuring somen in a hot broth, known as Nyumen. Both variations offer a great way to enjoy this traditional noodle.

Cha-gayu is a type of rice porridge made by simmering white rice in roasted green tea (hojicha) or coarse green tea (bancha), rather than water. Hojicha is brewed using tea leaves roasted over high heat, which results in a brown color and a toasty, nutty flavor that is rather distinct from regular green tea. Bancha, on the other hand, is made from mature tea leaves that have grown firm, and offers a milder flavor.

Locals in Nara affectionately call cha-gayu “okaisan”, and it is considered a staple dish in the region. Besides plain white rice, variations of cha-gayu may include sweet potatoes, pumpkins, chestnuts, or beans for added flavor and texture.

Nara is home to many restaurants that serve cha-gayu, and each one offers its unique take on this traditional dish. Be sure to try it during your visit to experience the comforting and diverse flavors of this regional specialty.

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奈良県観光プロモーション(@narakankopuromo)がシェアした投稿

Nara Prefecture can be divided into several distinct areas, with the bustling Nara City at its center. Other notable regions include areas rich in UNESCO World Heritage Sites and those offering abundant natural beauty.

Here, we’ll take a look at some recommended itineraries for a day trip to Nara Prefecture, tailored to different interests and experiences.

Nara Prefecture’s rich history is reflected in its numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites scattered throughout the region. A model itinerary for exploring these cultural treasures is found below.

This plan takes you through five UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Todai-ji Temple, Kofuku-ji Temple, Yakushiji Temple, and Toshodai-ji Temple. Along the way, enjoy a visit to the Nara National Museum to admire exquisite Buddhist art.

From JR Yamatoji Line or Kintetsu Nara Line, get off at Nara Station.

The distance between Kofuku-ji Temple and Yakushiji Temple is significant, taking about an hour on foot. For convenience, use a bus or taxi.

Although Nara Prefecture is well known for its historical heritage and natural beauty, it is also famous for its charming townscapes. Here is an itinerary that explores the historical streets and scenic spots of Nara City. This well-balanced course includes temples, parks, and leisurely strolls through quaint neighborhoods.

Higashimuki Shopping Street is conveniently located just outside the east exit of Kintetsu Nara Station. From Exit 2, head upstairs to find the tourist information center, where you can gather useful information about the area, including maps and brochures of nearby attractions.

Walking through Higashimuki Shopping Street, you’ll arrive at another charming arcade called Mochiidono Shopping Arcade.This area features a mix of traditional long-established shops and trendy new stores. It’s a delightful place to enjoy local food, shop for souvenirs, and soak in the quaint atmosphere. Mochiidono Shopping Arcade connects to Naramachi as well, a historic district with even more to explore.

Within Naramachi, you’ll find the UNESCO World Heritage Site Gango-ji Temple, a must-visit spot for history enthusiasts.From Gango-ji, it’s a pleasant walk to Nara Park, where you can relax and enjoy the serene surroundings.

After exploring Nara Park, head to Nara Kitamachi, located north of Kintetsu Nara Station. Kitamachi is home to historic buildings, stylish ateliers, and museums, providing a perfect place to conclude your tour with a blend of both culture and charm.

Nara is gifted with abundant natural beauty that changes with the seasons, and offers unique experiences throughout the year. Here, we present a day trip itinerary that allows you to immerse yourself in Nara’s stunning natural landscapes.

This course takes you through the untouched primeval forest of Kasuga Taisha Shrine, following its walking trails, and then to ancient heritage sites such as Ishibutai Kofun and Takamatsuzuka Kofun. Since the schedule is tight, renting a car or starting your journey early in the morning is highly recommended.

Mizutani Shrine is a small shrine within the precincts of Kasuga Taisha, separate from its main hall. Adjacent to Kasuga Taisha lies the Kasugayama Primeval Forest, an ancient untouched forest. Walking trails are well-maintained in the area, allowing visitors to enjoy a peaceful stroll surrounded by pristine nature.

For those seeking a more casual experience, it is recommended to start at Mizutani Shrine, follow the walking trail through Kasugayama Primeval Forest, and head toward Mount Wakakusa. This route takes approximately two hours.

From Mount Wakakusa, it’s about an hour’s drive to Asuka Historical Park in Asuka Village. This expansive park was created to preserve and utilize cultural heritage and is divided into five zones, featuring various historical sites.

Ishibutai Kofun: The largest rectangular burial mound in Japan.Takamatsuzuka Kofun: Famous for its murals depicting celestial beings.

From Takamatsuzuka Kofun, it’s another hour’s drive to Soni Highland, a grassland covered with pampas grass. In summer, the area is refreshingly cool, and in autumn, the pampas grass sparkles in silver and gold hues under the sunlight, offering breathtaking views.

A land full of charm, boasting numerous historical landmarks, bustling shopping streets, and delicious cuisine, Nara Prefecture has plenty to see and do for visitors. Around the popular tourist area of Nara Park, you’ll find many buildings designated as National Treasures or Important Cultural Properties. For a day trip, exploring the Nara Park area is a great idea.

Nara also offers an abundance of culinary delights that you won’t be able to fully savor in just one visit. Be sure to indulge in the local delicacies that have been cherished in Nara for generations!

*This article is based on information available as of December 2024.