Nara
Japan’s first permanent capital was established in 710 at Heijokyo in Nara. Today, Nara is a city that still has many historic temples remaining. You can enjoy beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and colorful leaves in fall. Quiet yet rich in culture, Nara is a place to relax the soul. There are also many places to see outside the main city, such as Horyuji Temple in the town of Ikaruga, Mt. Miwa in Sakurai City, and the beautiful cherry trees and fall leaves of Mt. Yoshino, making this an attractive area where history and nature are in harmony.
Destination Highlights
Nara Park
Nature & Outdoors
A large park containing both Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Taisha, Nara Park is also home to more than 1,000 deer that roam freely around the park. These deer are a symbol of Nara, and some of them will bow their heads and ask for deer crackers.
Horyuji Temple
Arts & Culture
Horyuji Temple is Japan’s oldest wooden building. People are drawn to the precious buildings in the temple precincts, which include the main hall and a five-storied pagoda. It is the root of Buddhist architecture in Japan and has great historical value.
Omiwa Shrine
Arts & Culture
Said to be one of the oldest shrines in Japan, Omiwa Shrine is situated in the city of Sakurai in Nara Prefecture and preserves an ancient form of worship where the entire mountain is revered as a sacred object. Prayers are offered through the sacred triple Torii gate ("mitsu-torii" in Japanese) located at the back of the main hall.
The four seasons of Nara
Spring
Spring in Nara brings the sight of cherry trees in full bloom, making Nara Park and the historic temples even more beautiful. Visit famous places such as Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Taisha while enjoying the interwoven nature and history.
Summer
Visit Nara in summer to enjoy the tranquility of the ancient city at Mt. Yoshino. We also recommend visiting historic temples such as Yakushiji and Toshodaiji.
Fall
Nara in fall offers beautiful scenery awash in the colors of changing leaves. Mt. Yoshino, Todaiji, Horyuji, and other historic spots are all steeped in fall colors. Enjoy the tranquil feel of fall all around Nara.
Winter
In winter, the Nara cityscape spreads before you in the cold with a certain warmth to it. You can enjoy a relaxed visit to noted spots such as Yakushi-ji Temple. It’s also fun to encounter the deer or spend some time relaxing in a hot spring resort.
Trip highlights
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Nara Park
Nature & Outdoors
Closest station
Nara Station -
Horyuji Temple
Arts & Culture
Closest station
Hōryūji Station -
Omiwa Shrine
Arts & Culture
Closest station
Miwa Station -
Kohfukuji
Arts & Culture
Closest station
Nara Station -
Nara Higashimuki Shopping Arcade
Shopping
Closest station
Nara Station
Nara route map
Use the route map to find your route and make your trip easier! Use the interactive map to determine the best route for your trip and learn more about your destination and the spots along the route to get there.
Passes valid in this area
Travel and stay with JR-WEST Group
Find convenient hotels near JR-West stations. Enjoy a comfortable stay with easy access, allowing you to relax and make the most of your trip.
Make the most of your trip to West Japan
Useful information about this area
Useful information for sightseeing in this area that you can use to plan your journey and enjoy your trip.
Access from Kansai Airport
