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

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