Unleash the Charm: Nara, Japan in 3 Days!

Experience the ancient capital of Japan without breaking the bank in Nara.

21 June 2023

A visit to Nara on a limited budget is possible and enjoyable. Explore the ancient capital of Japan on foot and visit free attractions such as the Todai-ji Temple and the Isuien Garden. Stay in affordable hostels and eat at local food stalls and restaurants for a budget-friendly trip.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Arrival and Exploring the Town

  • Check in at the Guesthouse Nara Backpackers; charming hostel with affordable dorms and a cozy living room
  • Start with Nara-koen, famous park where tame deer wander freely, and offer the perfect insta-opportunity
  • Head towards Kasuga-Taisha, an incredibly beautiful and historical shrine
  • Grab vegetarian lunch at Veggie Cafe Falafel Gardena heaven with mouth-watering falafels and Mediterranean flavors
  • Walk towards the famous Todai-ji temple, home of the awe-inspiring Daibutsu Buddha statue
  • End the day at cozy bar Pablo, a trendy, low-key spot to sip a sake or beer and mingle with locals
Day 2

Heritage and Culture

  • Start the day with one of Nara's richest treasures, Horyu-Ji temple, one of the oldest architectural gems in Japan
  • Head over to Yoshiki-en Garden, a beautiful oasis with cherry blossoms and serene water features
  • Hungry for something sweet? Grab a traditional Japanese sweet treat, such as mochi or dango at Nakatani-dou
  • Keep walking to see the Kofuku-ji temple complex which dates back to 710AD.
  • Have lunch at Nyali Cafe, a vegan cafe that serves fresh, locally sourced ingredients with a delightful ambiance.
  • End the evening exploring the Nakatanidou Mochi shop where you can learn to make the soft, sweet treat.
Day 3

Nature and Parks

  • Start the day with a hike at Mount Yoshino, with panoramic views and the best cherry blossoms in Japan during peak season
  • Have lunch at Comfort Cafe Kailua, they offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains while serving healthy fusion food
  • In town, visit Isuien Garden, a small and intimate Japanese garden
  • Walk over to the Sento-kun-kan museum, an interactive museum about Japanese traditional music
  • End your trip at the illuminating Kasugayama Primeval ForestJapan's old-growth forest that glows magnificently in the evening light
  • Note: Please check if the mentioned places are open during Covid-19 restrictions and festivalschedule before planning your travel.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Nara by plane is to fly into Kansai International Airport and then take the JR Haruka Limited Express train directly to Nara Station.

Car

The best way to get to Nara by car is to take the Meishin Expressway to the Nara Interchange and then follow the signs to Nara City.

Train

The best way to get to Nara by train is to take the JR Yamatoji Line from Osaka Station or Kyoto Station and get off at Nara Station.

Boat

There is no direct way to get to Nara by boat as it is a landlocked city.

Bus

The best way to get to Nara by bus is to take a direct bus from Osaka Station or Kyoto Station to Nara Bus Center.

Destination

Nara

Welcome to a city where the deer outnumber, outwit and out-charm the visitors! Don't be surprised if you find yourself taking fashion advice from a deer in a bowtie.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

2 Day Adventure in Nara: Temples and Traditions

Nara is a historic city located in the Kansai region of Japan, known for its beautiful temples, shrines, and gardens. A trip to Nara is a treat for tourists interested in Japanese culture, as the city is home to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Todai-ji Temple and Nara Park, which is famous for its roaming deer population. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine and shopping for souvenirs in the charming streets of Nara.

Nara, Japan: The Ultimate 3-Day Trip

Nara, Japan offers tourists a unique travel experience as it is known for its ancient temples and tame deer that roam freely throughout the city. Visitors can explore the beautiful and historical Buddhist temples such as Todai-ji and Kasuga-taisha, which are listed as World Heritage sites. Additionally, they can engage in various cultural activities including traditional tea ceremonies and the making of Japanese ceramics.

A Fun-Filled Long Weekend in Nara, Japan

Nara is a picturesque city in Japan, known mostly for its historical and cultural significance. As a tourist, one can explore the city’s famed ancient Buddhist temples, the popular Nara Park, and learn about the city's rich Japanese traditions and heritage. It’s also home to some of the friendliest deer in the world who roam around casually, a unique experience for visitors to have.

Nara in 5: Budget-Friendly Family Fun!

Nara, Japan offers a family-friendly trip filled with cultural and historical experiences. Explore the stunning Nara Park, where friendly deer roam freely and can be fed. Visit Todai-ji Temple, home to the world's largest bronze Buddha statue, and immerse your family in the fascinating history and spirituality of this ancient city.