Nara in 5: Budget-Friendly Family Fun!

Discover ancient wonders and playful adventures in Nara, Japan – where family memories blossom.

19 July 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Welcome to Nara!

  • Begin your Nara adventure by checking into the whimsical Deer Hotel, where deer-shaped beds and antler chandeliers reign supreme.
  • Have a divine breakfast at the charming Cafe Deer, where you can sip on coffee surrounded by majestic deer portraits.
  • Immerse yourself in history at the stunning Todai-ji Temple, home to the largest bronze Buddha statue in the world, and marvel at the skill of ancient artisans.
  • Stroll through Nara Park, where cheeky deer roam freely. Be prepared for some hilarious photo bombs and a potential "snack attack"!
  • Treat your taste buds at Kakinoha Zushi, a local favorite sushi spot where salmon, mackerel, and sea bream are wrapped in fragrant persimmon leaves.
Day 2

Zen and Gardens Galore

  • Enjoy a tranquil morning at Yoshiki-en Garden, an oasis of serenity with its beautifully manicured landscapes and peaceful tea houses.
  • Explore Isuien Garden, a masterpiece blending three distinct garden styles scenic, pond, and dry landscape – a true feast for the senses.
  • Learn the art of Japanese tea ceremony at Yuraraku, where skilled tea masters create a captivating experience amidst traditional tatami floors.
  • Lunch at Nakatanidou, where you can witness mind-boggling mochi pounding by speed-demon chefs, ensuring you a lively lunchtime show.
  • Don't miss the splendid Kasuga Taisha Shrine, where a magical forest of stone lanterns creates an ethereal atmosphere.
Day 3

Cultural Delights and Hidden Gems

  • Experience the elegance of Naramachi, a historic district with preserved machiya houses dating back to the Edo period. Snap some envy-inducing photos!
  • Dive into the world of traditional Japanese crafts at the Nara Crafts Gallery, where delicate lacquerware and intricate textiles will leave you spellbound.
  • Relish a zen-filled lunch at Omoide Yokocho, a nostalgic alley lined with small eateries offering delicious street food like takoyaki and yakitori.
  • Get artistic at Kofuku-ji National Treasure Museum, housing an extraordinary collection of ancient Buddhist statues and precious artifacts.
  • Savor a unique dinner at Sanju Sangendo, a quirky restaurant serving kaiseki dishes inspired by the 1001 statues of Kannon in the adjacent temple.
Day 4

Nara's Wild Side

  • Embark on an unforgettable morning hike up Mount Wakakusa, where panoramic views of Nara reward your efforts. Spot the elusive yamayaki fire festival site!
  • Head to Nara National Museum, a treasure trove of Buddhist art and artifacts, offering insight into the rich cultural heritage of Japan.
  • Refuel with a delightful lunch at Hanayashiki Ukifune-en, a picturesque restaurant overlooking a tranquil pond adorned with floating lotus flowers.
  • Experience a traditional Noh theater performance at Kondo, where talented actors bring mythical tales to life through haunting masks and graceful movements.
  • Indulge in a special dinner at Tsunobunoyu Nakatatsuno, where you can savor Nara's famous yudofu (tofu hot pot) in a cozy, traditional setting.
Day 5

Farewell, Nara!

  • Start your day with a visit to Nara City Museum of Photography, showcasing captivating imagery that captures Nara's beauty in all its forms.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along Sarusawa-ike Pond, known for its iconic vermilion bridge and serene atmosphere, greeting you with picture-perfect moments.
  • Enjoy a final meal in Nara at the charming Kishu Toshiko, a local favorite serving up mouthwatering traditional kaiseki cuisine.
  • Bid farewell to Nara Park's mischievous deer, but be sure to bring some deer-shaped souvenirs home – the ultimate quirky keepsake!
  • Leave Nara with unforgettable memories, a heart full of deer-related anecdotes, and an intense desire to return to this magical city!

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.

 Save and get deals

Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Nara Adventure: Sushi, Shrine & Friendly Deer

Nara is a city that offers tourists a unique historical and cultural experience. The main attraction of the city is the large park filled with friendly roaming deer, a popular symbol of the city. In addition, the city offerings include historic temples, stunning gardens, ancient shrines, and a vibrant local food scene.

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.

Nara: A Couples' 3-Day Dream Trip

A trip to Nara, Japan for a romantic getaway is a perfect way to indulge in ancient Japanese culture and explore historical sites. Visit the iconic Todaiji Temple with its awe-inspiring architecture and giant Buddha statue, or take a peaceful stroll through the serene Nara Park, where you can feed the friendly deer that roam freely. Enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine and soak in a hot spring onsen for the ultimate relaxation experience.

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.