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Thrifty Travels: 5 Days in Enchanting Nara, Japan

Discover the beauty of Nara without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Nara, Japan is a must-visit destination for travelers on a budget. Home to ancient temples and shrines, cherry blossom-filled parks and delectable street food, Nara offers a rich cultural experience without breaking the bank. With affordable accommodations and free attractions, traveling to Nara can be an unforgettable journey for those looking to explore Japan on a budget.

Travel plan

• Check into the Guesthouse Naramachi and take a relaxing stroll through Naramachi street.
• Have lunch at the charming Yamanaka restaurant for their delicious udon.
• Visit Todai-ji temple and admire the Daibutsu (Giant Buddha) statue, the largest bronze statue in the world.
• Spend the afternoon at the breathtaking Nara Park, feeding the friendly deer.
• Catch the sunset at Wakakusa-yama hill for the stunning view of Nara city.

• Start the day with a visit to Kofuku-ji temple for an insight into Japanese Buddhism.
• Have a traditional Japanese breakfast at Ukiyo café.
• Wander through the exquisite Isuien and Yoshikien gardens.
• Visit the Nara National Museum to see the impressive collection of Japanese Buddhist art.
• End the day with dinner at the quaint and cozy Nomoto Sushi for their impressive sushi rolls.

• Book a day trip to Asuka village to see the ancient Asuka-dera temple and unique stone Buddhas.
• Stop at Katsuragi to try their famous pickles and soba noodles.
• Return to Nara and visit the lesser-known Nigatsu-do temple for its stunning views of the city.
• Have dinner at Hakko-ryu Izakaya for a taste of local cuisine.

• Start the day with a visit to the Kasuga Taisha shrine to admire the intricate details of the lanterns and architecture.
• Visit the Nara City Museum of Art to see their impressive collection of Japanese contemporary art.
• Take a walk down Higashimuki shopping street for some souvenir shopping.
• Visit the tranquil and serene Toshodai-ji temple.
• End the day with some karaoke at the quirky Maneki Kura.

• Start the morning with a cup of coffee at the trendy Chou Chou café.
• Visit the impressive Horyu-ji temple, one of Japan's oldest Buddhist temples.
• Take part in a Japanese tea ceremony at the traditional tea house, Jiko-in.
• Have lunch at the quaint and charming Kashiwaya for some tasty wagyu beef.
• End the day with some sake tasting at the cozy Yorocco Beer Nara Brewery.
• Nara is a beautiful city that has so much to offer, from its rich history to its culinary delights and stunning scenery. These five days should give you a good overview of what Nara has to offer so that you can leave with unforgettable memories.