A 5-Day Romantic Adventure in Nara, Japan

Fall in love with Nara: Japan's ancient capital and magical home to friendly deer.

22 April 2023

A romantic trip to Nara, Japan promises to be a magical experience. This ancient city, known for its stunning temples and friendly deer, offers couples a chance to bond over cultural exploration and delicious cuisine. From strolls through scenic parks to visits to iconic landmarks, Nara provides the perfect backdrop for a breathtaking romantic adventure.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Arrival in Nara

  • Check-in at Hotel Nikko Nara overlooking Nara Park and the iconic Todai-ji temple.
  • Explore Nara Park and greet the friendly deer roaming freely.
  • Visit Todai-ji temple, home to the largest bronze Buddha statue in the world.
  • Meander through the quaint streets of Naramachi, a preserved traditional district.
  • Savor a hearty Japanese-Italian fusion dinner at Il Cielo, with views of Nara’s cityscape.
Day 2

Nature and Culture

  • Start the day with a Japanese breakfast at the hotel’s restaurant, Hanagiku.
  • Hike up to Mount Wakakusa for panoramic views of Nara city.
  • Visit Kasuga-taisha shrine, famous for its beautiful lanterns and deer antlers hung on the walls.
  • Indulge in authentic Japanese cuisine at Kakiemon, a Michelin-starred restaurant.
  • Relax at an onsen hot spring at Yoshino-no-sato Yukawatan or Asuka-no-Yu.
Day 3

History and Art

  • Gain insights into Nara’s rich history at Nara National Museum and the Naramachi Internment Museum.
  • Admire the stunning architecture and serene surroundings of Horyu-ji temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Visit the unique Nara, Kasugai and Meitei museums.
  • Take a pottery class at Yamatoya, a studio of a renowned pottery artist.
  • Sip on fine Japanese sake at Amazake Chaya, a traditional sake brewery with a relaxed atmosphere.
Day 4

Parks and Gardens

  • Stroll through Isuien Garden, a beautiful traditional Japanese garden with a serene pond.
  • Explore the free-roaming deer at the quiet Mount Yoshino.
  • Visit Yoshikien Garden, a lovely garden made up of three smaller gardens, each with their unique features.
  • Take a walk alongside the picturesque Hozu-gawa River and enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner at Kyoto cuisine Nakamura.
Day 5

Local Markets and Shopping

  • Wander around the vibrant local markets of Nishiki Market and Shinkyogoku Shopping Arcade.
  • Spend the afternoon shopping for traditional Japanese souvenirs for yourself or loved ones.
  • Make your way back to the hotel to have a farewell dinner at the French restaurant Escale.
  • Savor the night view of Nara city before heading back to the hotel.

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

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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.

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Nara, Japan: A 4-Day Adventure on a Budget

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