Plan your Nara travel itinerary with our expert

Nara
Anna Kraskovska

Anna Kraskovska

Welcome travel fans! I’ve been traveling around the world for 20 years and most of my trips were to Asia. I think I have been crazy about Japan since I was a child and I will be happy to share this passion with you…

Only 28 km from Osaka and 35 km from Kyoto, Nara city is the capital of Nara prefecture and a part of the Kansai region famous for its priceless historical heritage.  It is a living treasury, full of World Heritage sites, temples and shrines.

What we propose

Anna Kraskovska

Anna Kraskovska


Expert Japan
Marco Rossi

Marco Rossi


Expert for Italy
Jena Hovor

Jena Hovor


Expert France

Let us create your perfect itinerary!

Contact us now and we'll begin creating your one-of-a-kind itinerary, tailored specifically to your preferences and needs.

Our expert travel planners will craft a unique, custom route that includes all the must-see sights and hidden gems, divided by day and with a clear route from A to Z.

  • We'll save you time by doing all the research and planning for you.

  • Our experts have insider knowledge of unique and off-the-beaten-path destinations that aren't typically found in guidebooks.

  • Your itinerary will be fully customized to your interests, preferences, and travel style.

  • We'll provide you with all the essential details, such as transportation options, recommended accommodations, and restaurant reservations.

  • You'll have access to ongoing support from our team throughout your entire trip, ensuring a stress-free and unforgettable experience.

  • The cost of our service is only $190

Contact us now to start planning your dream trip and get all the details and answers to your questions.

نقدّم الخدمات لزبائننا باللغة العربية والإنجليزية

Since 2015, our site has been offering expert travel itinerary planning services that result in a comprehensive, user-friendly PDF guidebook personalized to each client’s unique needs and preferences, featuring daily summaries, attraction recommendations, dining suggestions, maps, a curated database of tested accommodations worldwide, as well as detailed guidance on car rental options and ongoing support via phone and Whatsapp.

Our personalized routes from A to Z include many unique and little-known places, along with detailed information such as parking addresses, tips, and exact directions, making the trip more exciting and enjoyable while saving travelers time during preparation and on their journey.

Stories of Our Customers

Must-visit sights

Natural Beauties and Lakes

Natural Beauties and Lakes

Nara Park
Price: free

Nara Park

Nara Park

open 24 hours

Yoshikien Garden
Price: free

Yoshikien Garden

60-1 Noboriojicho

from 9 am to 4:30 pm

Kasugayama Primeval Forest
Price: free

Kasugayama Primeval Forest

Kasuganocho

to be checked

Manyo Botanical Garden
Price: 500 yen

Manyo Botanical Garden

160 Kasuganocho

from 9 am to 4:30 pm

Tourist Attractions

Todai-ji Temple
Price: 600 yen

Todai-ji Temple

406-1 Zoshicho

from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm

Yakushiji Temple & Oike Pond
Price: 1100 yen

Yakushiji Temple & Oike Pond

457 Nishinokyocho

from 8:30 am to 5 pm

Kasuga Taisha Shrine
Price: 500 yen

Kasuga Taisha Shrine

160 Kasuganocho

from 6 am to 6 pm

Nara Park
Price: free

Nara Park

Park

open 24 hours

Attractions For Kids

Nara Park
Price: free

Nara Park

Park

open 24 hours

Ikoma Sanjo Amusement Park
Price: 12-ride Value Ticket is 3,400 yen

Ikoma Sanjo Amusement Park

2312-1 Nabatacho, Ikoma

to be checked

Nara Kenko Land
Price: 2,200 yen per adult, 880 yen per child

Nara Kenko Land

600-1 Kabatacho, Tenri

open 24 hours

NARAMACHI-KARAKURI Toy Museum
Price: free

NARAMACHI-KARAKURI Toy Museum

7 Inyocho

from 9 am to 5 pm

Museums

Museums

Nara National Museum
Price: 700 yen per adult, free for kids

Nara National Museum

50 Noboriojicho

from 9:30 am to 5 pm

Isuien Garden and Neiraku
Price: 1,200 yen per adult, 300 yen per child

Isuien Garden and Neiraku

74 Suimoncho

from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Closed on Tuesday

Kōfuku-ji Buddhist complex
Price: free

Kōfuku-ji Buddhist complex

48 Noboriojicho

from 9 am to 5 pm

Kehayaza Sumo Museum
Price: free for foreigners

Kehayaza Sumo Museum

83-1 Taima, Katsuragi

from 10 am to 5 pm

A day trip to Nara

01

A day trip to Nara

Purpose: visiting top sights

1 day

02

Priceless Nara

Purpose: visiting top sights & hidden “gems”

3 days

03

Nara hidden “gems”

Nara is stunning and most of the visitors limit themselves to visiting the most popular attractions, however, there are places, sometimes unique, that will bring you a more sacred experience by visiting.

Naramachi district
Price: free

Naramachi district

20-1 Wakidocho

24 hours

Kasugayama Primeval Forest
Price: free, but has to be checked

Kasugayama Primeval Forest

Kasuganocho

to be checked

Abe Monju-in (Sakurai)
Price: 700 yen per adult, 500 yen per child

Abe Monju-in (Sakurai)

645 Abe, Sakurai

from 9 am to 5 pm

Todaiji Nigatsudo Temple
Price: free

Todaiji Nigatsudo Temple

406-1 Zoshicho

open 24 hours

Horyu-ji Temple
Price: from 1,500 yen per adult, 750 yen per child

Horyu-ji Temple

1-1-1 Horyuji Sannai, Ikaruga, Ikoma District

from 8 am to 4:30 pm

Expert tips in Nara

Anna Kraskovska

Ultimate sights not to be missed

If I have only half a day coming from Osaka or Kyoto as most of the tourists, I will be focused on deer feeding in Nara Park, Todai-ji Temple, Isuien Garden, Kasuga-Taisha Shrine and Naramachi street where I would definitely have a lunch or dinner before leaving.

 

Anna Kraskovska

Be careful with deer

Deer in Nara Park are generally very friendly with tourists. However, they are used to being fed, and when they are hungry, they might disturb you especially when they see something in your hands. To avoid sometimes a bit aggressive attention, keep the food hidden when you’re in the park.

Anna Kraskovska

Experience a unique experience

For a unique experience take a rickshaw runner to tour around the Park. They wear traditional attire and can be found waiting around the park. A rickshaw ride is a relaxing experience, especially during the hot summer months.

It is also highly recommended to try local specialties like Kakinoha-zushi and Manju.

What we propose

Anna Kraskovska

Anna Kraskovska


Expert Japan

Let us create your perfect itinerary!

Contact us now and we'll begin creating your one-of-a-kind itinerary, tailored specifically to your preferences and needs.

Our expert travel planners will craft a unique, custom route that includes all the must-see sights and hidden gems, divided by day and with a clear route from A to Z.

  • We'll save you time by doing all the research and planning for you.

  • Our experts have insider knowledge of unique and off-the-beaten-path destinations that aren't typically found in guidebooks.

  • Your itinerary will be fully customized to your interests, preferences, and travel style.

  • We'll provide you with all the essential details, such as transportation options, recommended accommodations, and restaurant reservations.

  • You'll have access to ongoing support from our team throughout your entire trip, ensuring a stress-free and unforgettable experience.

  • The cost of our service is only $190

Contact us now to start planning your dream trip and get all the details and answers to your questions.

Stories of Our Customers

Great Food Experience

Kura ($$ - moderate)

Kura ($$ - moderate)

16 Komyoincho, Nara, 630-8371, Japan 〒630-8371 奈良県奈良市光明院町16

It is a small and cozy izakaya with prominent food, great atmosphere, English menu and English-speaking staff. Highly recommended experience once you are in Nara!

Edogawa Naromachi ($$ - moderate)

Edogawa Naromachi ($$ - moderate)

43 Shimomikadocho, Nara, 630-8365, Japan 〒630-8365 奈良県奈良市下御門町43

A place with truly Japanese ambience located in an old wooden house at Naramachi. It features authentic Japanese food focused on grilled eel and tempura. Fantastic food and a place that is worth your visit.

Wakakusa Curry ($$ - moderate)

Wakakusa Curry ($$ - moderate)

Japan, 〒630-8222 Nara, Mochiidonocho, 38-1 若草カレー本舗

This is one of the best places to try Japanese curry in Nara. Large portions, absolutely delicious food, especially Double Curry with lamb & chicken and super friendly staff. Really good choice for lunch while shopping or walking.

Nara Sake Brewery Nabe なら酒蔵なべ ($$ - moderate)

Nara Sake Brewery Nabe なら酒蔵なべ ($$ - moderate)

34-1 Imamikadocho, Nara, 630-8374, Japan 〒630-8374 奈良県奈良市今御門町34-1

Amazing place to have an outstanding dinner. Japanese style interior, warm ambience and fantastic food. The place features oysters (fresh and cooked), seafood and many other delicious meals. Large portions, moderate prices.

Shopping Malls & Stores

Aeon Mall Kashihara

Aeon Mall Kashihara

7 Chome-20-1 Magarikawacho, Kashihara, Nara 634-0837, Japan 〒634-0837 奈良県橿原市曲川町7丁目20−1

It is a huge shopping mall very popular in Nara prefecture. Inside you will find a game center, a big food court, many famous brand stores, Starbacks, supermarket, pet goods, and many other goods and shops.

Nara Family Shopping Mall

Nara Family Shopping Mall

2 Chome-4-1 Saidaiji Higashimachi, Nara, 631-0821, Japan 〒631-0821 奈良県奈良市西大寺東町2丁目4−1

It’s a big shopping center with lots of stores, food court and a rooftop deck where you can have a nice Nara city view. The Mall is a bit dated.

Mi Nara

Mi Nara

1 Chome-3-1 Nijoojiminami, Nara, 630-8012, Japan 〒630-8012 奈良県奈良市二条大路南1丁目3−1

It’s a shopping mall with a variety of local shops & boutiques, Japanese restaurants & game center to spend a fun time with your family.

Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten Nara Main Branch

Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten Nara Main Branch

Japan, 〒630-8221 Nara, Ganriincho, 22 鹿猿狐ビルヂング

It is a 300 years old store that features Japanese culture design products, cloth, food, cooking utensils and bath sets.

Shopping streets

Higashimuki Shopping Street

Higashimuki Shopping Street

Japan, 〒630-8215 Nara, Higashimuki Nakamachi, 15 〒630-8215 奈良県奈良市東向中町15

It’s a covered shopping arcade full of shops and eateries. Nice place to go shopping and have lunch.

Mochiido Centre Town

Mochiido Centre Town

Japan, 〒630-8222 Nara, Mochiidonocho, 12番地 夢CUBE2F

It’s Nara's oldest shopping street located in the heart of Nara city full of small shops (old and newly opened).

Shimomikado Shopping Street

Shimomikado Shopping Street

25 Shimomikadocho, Nara, 630-8365, Japan 〒630-8365 奈良県奈良市下御門町25

It is a peaceful pedestrian arcade with many unique shops and eateries. You will also find greengrocers, 100 yen stores, drug stores, kimono shops and souvenir shops.

Komorebi Market

Komorebi Market

〒633-0317 奈良県宇陀市室生三本松3139-2

It is a small modest roadside market where you'll find a variety of seasonal products (honey, flowers, vegetables, fruits, nuts, etc.) sourced from local farmers and producers.

Markets

Nara Central Market

Nara Central Market

957-1 Tsutsuicho, Yamatokoriyama, Nara 639-1124, Japan 〒639-1124 奈良県大和郡山市筒井町957-1

It is a bit unusual market experience, very specific, very Japanese, maybe not instagram-like, but still full of fresh seafood, fresh vegetables and fruits.

Asuka Yume no Rakuichi

Asuka Yume no Rakuichi

225-2 Asuka, Takaichi District, Nara 634-0103, Japan 〒634-0103 奈良県高市郡明日香村飛鳥225−2

Very local Japanese market, very local experience. It’s a farmers market of fresh fruits, vegetables and flowers. It is worth a visit if you want to feel like a local.

Mahoroba Kitchen

Mahoroba Kitchen

605-1 Tokiwacho, Kashihara, Nara 634-0003, Japan 〒634-0003 奈良県橿原市常盤町605-1

Well it looks more like a Big Supermarket full of great fresh food, including fresh seafood, fruits, vegetables, flowers, fresh meat, etc.

Tsubai Market

Tsubai Market

Tsubaicho, Nara, 630-8343, Japan 〒630-8343 奈良県奈良市椿井町

It’s an ancient market, with not much but all unique shops. It’s warm and cozy. Make a journey to the past and take pictures.

Dangerous & recommended city areas

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Naramachi district 

Here you’ll find lots of traditional wooden houses, ryokans (Japanese-style inns), restaurants, cafes and shops. This is a very atmospheric and pleasant area to stay, eat, walk, take pictures, and explore Nara heritage.

Naramachi on Google map

map
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map

Kasuganocho is a lovely forest area in Nara where you can stay close to nature, go hiking, explore incredible shrines and temples.

Kasuganocho on Google map

Best Accommodation

Price:

Nara Hotel

1096 Takabatakecho, Nara, 630-8301
    〒630-8301 奈良県奈良市高畑町1096
Anna Kraskovska

Anna Kraskovska

Great stay! It’s like staying at a museum with great staff & food!

Price:

Tsukihitei

158 Kasuganocho, Nara, 630-8212
    〒630-8212 奈良県奈良市春日野町158
Anna Kraskovska

Anna Kraskovska

A high-quality, traditional Japanese Ryokan, surrounded by Nara beautiful forest. From bathing to dining, it's a wonderful experience. Just stay there. It's an absolutely amazing experience, especially if you are tired and looking for rest. It’s a touch of nature. Stay and let me know if you don’t like it.

Price:

Kotonoyado Musashino

90 Kasuganocho, Nara, 630-8212
    〒630-8212 奈良県奈良市春日野町90
Anna Kraskovska

Anna Kraskovska

Exceptional service, very spacious rooms, extremely clean, with a private terrace and hot tub. Food is excellent (both for breakfast and dinner). I very highly recommend Kotonoyado Musashino.

Recommended Trip Budget or how to save money

For a couple (4 to 5-star)

Budget per day Cost, $
Accommodation “Ryokan”* $700 (incl. breakfast and dinner)*
Accommodation “Hotel”** $391 (incl.breakfast)**
Meals from $35* per pax = $70x2 times=$140***
Entertainment from $30*x2 = $60
Car rental Toyota Rent a Car from $54 (incl. taxes)****

Family of 4 (4 to 5-star)

Budget per day Cost, $
Accommodation “Ryokan” $700 (incl. breakfast and dinner)*****
Accommodation “Hotel” $514 (incl.breakfast)******
Meals from $35* per pax = $140x2 times=$280***
Entertainment from $30*x4 = $120
Car rental Toyota Rent a Car from $90 (incl. taxes)*******

* Japanese-style double room, 2 futon beds, high quality & service

** Double room with 1 large bed

*** Good meal course in a restaurant

**** Mini/Compact class, 5 seats

***** Japanese-style quadruple room, 4 futon beds, high quality & service

****** Double room with 2 single beds and 1 sofa bed

******* Toyota, Standart class, 5 seats</span>

3 days Itinerary in Nara

Day 1
Nara top sights

09:00

Breakfast at the hotel

10:00

Nara Park with semi-wild deer

12:00

Todai-ji Temple

13:00

Todaiji Nigatsudo Temple

14:30

Lunch at Edogawa Naromachi

15:30

Naramachi Toy Museum

16:30

Walk around Naramachi

19:00

Dinner at Nara Sake Brewery Nabe

Day 2
Nara top sights

09:00

Breakfast at the hotel

10:00

Yoshikien Garden

12:00

Kasuga-Taisha Buddhist complex & Meoto Daikokusha

13:00

Lunch at Fufu Nara Hotel restaurant

14:30

Kofuku-ji temple complex

15:30

Higashimuki Shopping Street

19:00

Dinner at Ryokan or Nara Hotel (French restaurant with great view)

Day 3
Nara “hidden gems”

09:00

Breakfast at the hotel

10:00

Kasugayama Primeval Forest

14:00

Lunch at Mizuya Chaya

15:00

Toshodaiji Temple

16:30

Yakushiji Temple & Oike Pond

17:30

Walking around Nara Park

19:00

Dinner at Kura

Customer Journey Stories

Public bathrooms (WC)

A few of them are as follows:

Public WC near Todaiji Temple. 16-4 Kasuganocho, Nara, 630-8208

Public WC in Nara Park. Zoshicho, Nara, 630-8211

Public WC near Park administration. 543 Shibatsujicho, Nara, 630-8247

Parking lots in Nara city

16-2 Kasuganocho, Nara, 630-8212, Japan 〒630-8212 奈良県奈良市春日野町16-2

16-2 Kasuganocho, Nara, 630-8212, Japan 〒630-8212 奈良県奈良市春日野町16-2

44 Yurugicho, Nara, 630-8283, Japan 〒630-8283 奈良県奈良市油留木町44

City areas closed for vehicles

Obviously temple areas and gardens are accessible by foot only, however there are plenty of parking lots where you can leave your car even very close to Nara Park

Cooking Classes

Shukuseokashi Pan Classes

Shukuseokashi Pan Classes

1 Chome-8-22 Okidome, Ikaruga, Ikoma District, Nara 636-0123, Japan 〒636-0123 奈良県生駒郡斑鳩町興留1丁目8−22

Professional course lessons to teach you how to make low-sugar sweets. Cooking classes are held at a cafe. Have fun and learn more about exclusive Japanese sweets.

NARA JAPANESE COOKING

NARA JAPANESE COOKING

Japan, 〒630-8224 Nara, Tsunofuricho, 26 いせやビル 513 〒630-8224 奈良県奈良市角振町26 いせやビル 513

It is a cooking class on making from scratch ramen noodles and gyozas (Japanese dumplings). Chie San speaks fluent English and will teach you cooking with all her heart.

VILLAGE TO TABLE TOUR (Nara)

VILLAGE TO TABLE TOUR (Nara)

It is a very unique opportunity to meet local farmers, to learn about different plants, including medical ones and matcha tea, to cook with locals and stay in a village.

Umemori Sushi School Nara Campus

Umemori Sushi School Nara Campus

221 Hokkejicho, Nara, 630-8001, Japan 〒630-8001 奈良県奈良市法華寺町221

Have fun making sushi in a very local atmosphere.

Frequently asked questions

01

When is the best time to come to Nara?

02

How many days is enough for Nara?

03

Where to stay in Nara?

04

What to try in Nara?

05

Do I need a car to get to Nara?

Reviews

user

Ava Patel

I highly recommend Anna to anyone looking for a customized and stress-free travel experience.

user

Abigail Stewart

I had an incredible trip thanks to Anna accurate planning and real-time assistance while I was abroad. Highly recommend!

user

Jackson Brown

We had a week to travel to northern Japan (excluding Kyoto) and wanted to make the most of our trip. We turned to Anna to help us build a plan, and he provided a detailed itinerary down to the smallest details, including parking spaces with links and addresses, places to stay based on our preferences, attractions to see, and cities to visit. Throughout our trip, Anna was available to help with any problems or questions, especially during the time when we were affected by bureaucratic issues due to the Corona epidemic.

Stories of Our Customers

What we propose

Anna Kraskovska

Anna Kraskovska


Expert Japan
Marco Rossi

Marco Rossi


Expert for Italy
Jena Hovor

Jena Hovor


Expert France

Let us create your perfect itinerary!

Contact us now and we’ll begin creating your one-of-a-kind itinerary, tailored specifically to your preferences and needs.

Our expert travel planners will craft a unique, custom route that includes all the must-see sights and hidden gems, divided by day and with a clear route from A to Z.

  • We’ll save you time by doing all the research and planning for you.
  • Our experts have insider knowledge of unique and off-the-beaten-path destinations that aren’t typically found in guidebooks.
  • Your itinerary will be fully customized to your interests, preferences, and travel style.
  • We’ll provide you with all the essential details, such as transportation options, recommended accommodations, and restaurant reservations.
  • You’ll have access to ongoing support from our team throughout your entire trip, ensuring a stress-free and unforgettable experience.
  • The cost of our service is only $190

Contact us now to start planning your dream trip and get all the details and answers to your questions.

We provide services to our customers in Arabic and English

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