Top Things to do in Nara
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What to do and see in Nara, Kinki: The Best Sights & Landmarks
Thirteen hundred years ago, Nara (then Heiju-kyu) was the imperial capital of Japan. "Old Japan" is still easy to spot here, from Great Buddha Hall to traditional ryokans and the serene Isuien garden. Travelers rave about walking tours of Nara, particularly in the historic Naramachi merchant area.
Restaurants in Nara
1. Kasuga Grand Shrine
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,765 reviews
Reviewed By 338siddharthb - Seattle, United States
When we went to Kashuga Taisha, we didn’t have much expectations and only went there as it showed on Google’s list of “things to do in Nara”. However I’d say now if there was only thing you could do in Nara apart from feeding the deers, go to Kasuga Taisha. It is slightly far from the JR Station so you will need to use some sort of public transport. We used Google Maps to catch bus 77 from near Kofukuji Temple and get down at Stop # 10 for 100 yen each. From the moment of entering the temple complex, we were amazed at the beautiful lanterns as they paved the entrance till we see the majestic orange tori gates. Then starts the trail of the majestic orange buildings lined along the lanterns, with a constant stream of tori gates as it feels magical to walk through them. There are lots of photo shoot places here too. As you walk along, this leads you to a dark room just illuminated with lanterns and it looks magical. Once you exit, you can see deers hiding among the moss-covered lanterns making for beautiful views and pictures. You can follow the trail back to Todai-ji or take a bus. Overall it’s the best attraction in Nara and I’d strongly recommend it. The gates are not as majestic as Fushimi Inari, but it definitely has it’s own charm.
2. Nara National Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 481 reviews
Reviewed By scottofhawaii - Honolulu, United States
I would say visiting this museum is equal to or more in significance than seeing Todaiji - the premier attraction in Nara. Todaji's got size and fame, but you're gonna see a wide variety of Buddhist treasures here. Magnificent statues, sculptures, reliefs, and whatnot pepper both buildings where you can spend quite a few hours viewing the exhibits and reading the excellent English descriptions most of them have. One special exhibition that I thought was fun was Buddhist art that involved images of animals. There were lots of informational signs here too in English with animal cartoon characters that I thought would be funny for the kids. I liked coming here a lot and am glad I didn't skip it. You shouldn't either.
3. Todai-ji Temple
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 5,653 reviews
Reviewed By Krubee - Singapore, Singapore
After a leisurely and fun stroll in Nara Park with my memorable deer encounters the pinnacle of my journey is the Great Todai-ji temple (Great Eastern Temple), one of the 7 Great Temples in Japan built in the 8th century. Located at the Northern Park of Nara Park. At its entrance stands Nandaimon Gate with two huge sculptures of Guardians. Its Great Buddha Hall at the center of the temple stands Daibutsu or Buddha Vaironaca, a giant bronze statue around 52 ft high. The path leading to the Temple including several complexes (Todai-ji museum, Nigatsudo Hall, Hokkedo Hall, Kaidando Hall to name a few). There is a large bronze bell in front of the Great Hall. In the Great Buddha Hall, two guardians who are equally big stands on each side guarding the shrine. Smaller statues, historical manuscripts and fine sculptures surround this hall and complex. Souvenirs and Toilets are also available in the complex. Incense, Prayers and Offerings are also available at the temple. It was indeed a worthwhile and memorable visit here at Todai-ji temple in Nara Park.
4. Toshodai-ji Temple
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 634 reviews
Reviewed By KodoDrummer - Yekaterinburg, Russia
Tōshōdai-ji is a beautiful, peaceful Buddhist temple with nice gardens, surrounded by stately trees. The temple’s origins date back to 759, when it was founded by a Chinese monk, Ganji Wajo. It still remains the headquarters of the Buddhist Ritsu-shu sect.
5. Nigatsu-do Temple
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 750 reviews
Reviewed By rachelfZ5622UA - Vaudreuil-Dorion, Canada
Beautiful hike up to see all of Nara. We were there during one of the festival in early March and saw they light large torches and run across the temple. It was amazing!
6. Naramachi Koshino Ie
7. Akishinodera Temple
8. Shinyakushiji Temple
9. Enjyouji Temple
10. Yoshikien
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 204 reviews
Reviewed By jueying
This was a beautiful find in Nara - it's far away from the crowds and so very peaceful and quiet. We visited when the autumn colours were glorious - beautiful hues of yellow, orange and red. It's free for international tourists - just show some ID!
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