Best 11 Things To Do In Nara, Japan

Nara is a beautiful city in the Kansai region of Japan, known for its well-preserved temples and shrines, scenic parks, and its famous friendly deer population. Here are the best 11 things to do in Nara:

1.Visit Todai-ji Temple

Todai-ji is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and houses the largest bronze Buddha statue in the world. The temple's Great Buddha Hall is an impressive wooden structure and a must-visit.

2.Feed the Deer in Nara Park

Nara is famous for its friendly deer population, and feeding them is an enjoyable experience. These deer are considered messengers of the gods, and they roam freely throughout the park.

3.Explore Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Kasuga Taisha is a beautiful Shinto shrine surrounded by a forested area. The shrine has thousands of stone lanterns and is a beautiful place to visit during festivals.

4.Walk through Naramachi

Naramachi is a preserved historic district with traditional houses, shops, and restaurants. It's a great place to explore and learn about traditional Japanese culture.

5.Climb Mt. Wakakusa

Mt. Wakakusa is a popular hiking spot in Nara. The mountain is known for its beautiful views of Nara City and the surrounding countryside.

6.Visit Horyu-ji Temple

Horyu-ji is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to some of the oldest surviving wooden buildings in the world. The temple has beautiful gardens and an impressive collection of Buddhist art.

7.Enjoy a Hot Spring Bath

Nara has many hot springs or onsens where you can relax and soak in mineral-rich waters. Some popular ones include Asuka-no-Yu and Yoshino-no-Yu.

8.Visit Isuien Garden

Isuien Garden is a beautiful Japanese garden located in the heart of Nara City. The garden has a pond, bridges, and a teahouse, and it's a peaceful escape from the bustling city.

9.Try Nara's Local Cuisine

Nara is known for its unique cuisine, such as kakinoha-zushi (sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves) and imoni (a hearty soup made with taro and meat).

10.Visit the Yoshiki-en Garden

Yoshiki-en Garden is a beautiful Japanese garden located next to Nara Park. The garden has a pond, tea house, and a variety of plants and flowers.

11.Explore Nara National Museum

The Nara National Museum is an impressive museum with an extensive collection of Buddhist art and artifacts. The museum has several galleries showcasing different periods of Japanese art history.

In summary, Nara is a beautiful and historic city in Japan, with many fascinating cultural and natural attractions. Visitors can explore the city's numerous temples and shrines, stroll through its beautiful parks and gardens, hike its scenic mountains, and enjoy its unique cuisine and hot springs. The city's friendly deer population is also a major attraction, and feeding these gentle creatures is a must-do activity for visitors.