Nara on a Budget: Fun-Filled Day Trip!

Discover ancient wonders without breaking the bank in Nara, Japan.

21 June 2023

A trip to Nara, Japan on a limited budget can still be an enriching experience. The city offers a variety of affordable options, including budget accommodations, dining, and sightseeing activities. Visitors can enjoy exploring the parks, temples, and historic landmarks that make Nara a popular destination.

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Day trip plan

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Day

Bumming Around Nara

  • Start your day with some traditional Japanese breakfast at Tsunohana, where you can enjoy various dishes for under ¥1000.
  • Next, head to Nara Park, where you'll meet friendly sika deer that roam freely. They are used to humans, but remember to bow at them before feeding.
  • Stroll around the park until you reach the Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to the largest bronze Buddha statue in the world.
  • For lunch, try the yamato udon noodles at Sanjojaya for only ¥500 or indulge in a plate of kaki-no-ha sushi at Matsumoto, which comes with six pieces topped with salmon, mackerel, and more for ¥1100.
  • In the afternoon, visit the Kasuga-taisha Shrine and admire the thousands of lanterns that light up the path before reaching it.
  • End your day by watching the sunset at Wakakusayama, a hill that offers a panoramic view of Nara City. To reach the top, hike for about 30 minutes or take the cable car for ¥660 one way.
  • Nara has a lot to offer even for those with a tight budget. With this itinerary, you can experience its beauty and culture without breaking the bank.

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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A trip to Nara, Japan on a limited budget can still be an enriching experience. The city offers a variety of affordable options, including budget accommodations, dining, and sightseeing activities. Visitors can enjoy exploring the parks, temples, and historic landmarks that make Nara a popular destination.

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