Nara Secrets: Immersive Traditions, Graceful Deer & Hidden Temple

A mere train ride away from Kyoto or Osaka, Nara is a city that respectfully commands attention. As Japan’s first permanent capital (founded in 710 AD), Nara is filled with history, natural beauty, and spiritual richness. But what truly sets it apart is its serene harmony — among people, animals, and the ancient buildings that have weathered the centuries.

It’s a destination where you can bow to a deer, sip tea under centuries-old pagodas, and walk through mossy forests with the sounds of Buddhist chanting. This Nara Travel Guide is your ticket to everything enchanting about Nara — from where to stay, what to eat, and the unforgettable attractions you just can’t miss.

Where to Stay in Nara

Whether you’re seeking a luxury ryokan steeped in tradition or a budget hostel for a quick getaway, Nara’s accommodation options offer both comfort and cultural charm.

Luxury Stays

Noborioji Hotel Nara

Near historic Kōfuku-ji Temple

French-Japanese fusion breakfast with Mount Wakakusa views

Ideal for tranquil indulgence near major sights

Tsukihitei Ryokan

Located in Kasugayama Primeval Forest

Tatami rooms, hinoki wood tubs, and kaiseki cuisine

Meditative silence, surrounded by nature

Mid-Range Stays

Hotel Nikko Nara

Next to JR Nara Station

Ideal for convenience with Western & Japanese bedding options

Hotel Asyl Nara

Contemporary interiors mixed with Japanese design

Onsen-style baths, in-house dining, near Nara Park

Budget-Friendly Options

Guesthouse Nara Komachi

Great for solo travelers and backpackers

Bicycle rentals available

Oak Hostel Nara

Hip design, social atmosphere, shared kitchens, and private rooms

Where to Eat in Nara

Nara’s dining scene is a beautiful blend of seasonal sophistication and comfort food traditions.

Kaiseki & Traditional Cuisine

Kikusuiro Restaurant

Authentic kaiseki ryōri, garden views

Housed in a restored 19th-century building near Nara Park

Edogawa Naramachi

Specializes in grilled unagi, seasonal delicacies

Private tatami rooms, located in Naramachi

Buddhist Vegetarian Cuisine (Shōjin Ryōri)

Mellow Cafe (Nara-machi)

Vegan/vegetarian options: tofu burgers, miso soups

Trendy café setting

Gango-ji Shigetsu

Vegetarian meals based on temple recipes

Yuba, mountain vegetables, and sesame tofu

Street Food & Local Snacks

Nakamura Tokichi Nara

Matcha ice cream, parfaits, and lattes

Nakatanidou

Watch mochi pounding live!

Famous yomogi mochi (red bean & mugwort)

Higashimuki Shopping Street

Takoyaki, dango, deer cookies, yuba croquettes

Nara Top Attractions

Nara is a cultural paradise with some of Japan’s oldest and most spiritually significant landmarks.

Temples and Shrines

Tōdai-ji (Great Eastern Temple)

Houses the Daibutsu (15m bronze Buddha)

World’s largest wooden building

Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Renowned for 3,000 lanterns, especially during Setsubun and Obon

Kōfuku-ji Temple

Iconic five-story pagoda

National Treasure Hall and open-air museum feel

Nature and Gardens

Nara Park

Home to over 1,200 sacred deer

Feed them shika senbei and enjoy deer bowing in return

Isuien Garden

Edo & Meiji-style landscape garden with borrowed views of Tōdai-ji

Mount Wakakusa

Great city views, ideal for sunset

Visit during January’s Wakakusa Yamayaki fire festival

Historical & Cultural Districts

Naramachi (Old Town Nara)

Wooden merchant houses turned cafés & museums

Try calligraphy classes or visit the Mechanical Toy Museum

Heijō Palace Site

Ancient imperial palace ruins

Great for seasonal photos and open-air history

Travel Tips for Visiting Nara

🕘Get There Early: Avoid mid-morning tourist crowds

🦌 Deer Safety: Hide snacks, maps, and paper — the deer are clever!

🚆 Use Kintetsu Line: Closer to Nara Park than JR Nara Station

🍁 Seasonal Beauty: Cherry blossoms (April), Autumn leaves (November)

⛩️ Respect Sacred Spaces: Dress modestly and behave respectfully

What to Get in Nara

🦌 Deer-themed Gifts: Plush toys, stationery, cookies

🍣 Kakinoha Sushi: Wrapped in persimmon leaves — tasty and giftable

✍️ Calligraphy Supplies: Nara brushes, traditional ink — local craftsmanship

Sample Itinerary for a Perfect Day in Nara

Morning:

Arrive at Kintetsu Nara Station

Visit Tōdai-ji Temple and see the Great Buddha

Stroll through Nara Park and feed the deer

Afternoon:

Explore Kasuga Taisha, then enjoy lunch in Naramachi

Relax with tea at Isuien Garden

Optional trek to Mount Wakakusa for sunset

Evening:

Shop at Higashimuki Street

Return to Kyoto or stay at a serene ryokan

My Thoughts

Nara is not just a day trip — it’s an immersion in ancient Japan. From the spiritual quiet of its shrines to the playful bow of its deer, every moment in Nara is like stepping into a time capsule. Whether you stay a few hours or several nights, Nara will capture your heart with its refinement, courtesy, and timeless beauty.