The Ultimate Nara Travel Guide: Best Things to Do, See, and Eat (2025 edition)
After our amazing time in Kyoto (see our full guide here), it was time to head to Nara. Since we were lucky enough to be spending a full year in Japan, we made it a goal to return to some of our favorite spots in different seasons — and Nara was high on that list. We wanted to experience not just the highlights, but also discover its hidden gems, its quiet corners, and how the city changes throughout the year.
Despite most travelers not prioritizing Nara and often doing just a day tour from Kyoto, we truly believe this little city is absolutely worth a dedicated visit!
We planned a 4-day itinerary for you to soak in Nara’s rich history, serene nature, and delicious cuisine. As for accommodation, we can recommend the Centurion Hotel Classic Nara — a budget-friendly, centrally located option that made exploring the city super convenient.
Let’s dive in — here's everything you need to know for your Nara adventure.
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How to Get to Nara– The Easiest Ways In (and What Passes to Use)
Despite feeling like a peaceful escape, Nara is incredibly accessible and well-connected via Japan’s efficient train networks. Whether you’re coming from Kyoto, Osaka, or Tokyo, you’ll find the journey straightforward — and scenic in parts too.
From Kyoto (Approx. 1h 15–25 min):
There are two main train lines connecting Kyoto to Nara:
JR Nara Line:
Time: ~50–70 minutes
From: Kyoto Station → Nara Station (via JR line)
This route is covered by the JR Pass and is the best option if you’re traveling with one.
Cost without pass: ~720 yen one way
Kintetsu Kyoto Line:
Time: ~35–45 minutes
From: Kintetsu Kyoto Station → Kintetsu Nara Station
Not covered by JR Pass, but the station is closer to the main sights, like Nara Park and Todai-ji
Cost: ~1,230 yen (if using limited express)
Our tip: If you're not using a JR Pass and want to get closer to the action, the Kintetsu line is faster and drops you off just a few minutes' walk from Nara Park.
From Osaka (Approx. 45–60 min)
JR Yamatoji Line:
From: JR Osaka Station or Tennoji Station → JR Nara Station
Time: ~50 min
Cost: ~810 yen
Covered by JR Pass
Kintetsu Namba Line:
From: Osaka-Namba Station → Kintetsu Nara Station
Time: ~40 min
Cost: ~570 yen (one way)
Not covered by JR Pass, but again, closer to most main attractions
From Tokyo
Shinkansen to Kyoto or Osaka, then transfer to a local train:
Route Example:
Tokyo → Kyoto (Tokaido Shinkansen, ~2 hr 15 min)
Kyoto → Nara (JR or Kintetsu, ~45–70 min)
The JR Pass covers the Shinkansen (except Nozomi) and JR trains to Nara.
This is a huge saving if you're doing long-distance travel (like Tokyo → Kyoto → Nara → Osaka or Hiroshima). If you're only staying around Kansai (Osaka/Kyoto/Nara), a JR Pass is not worth it. But if your Japan itinerary includes big trips it can be an excellent deal.
Arriving by Plane
From Kansai International Airport (KIX) ~90 minutes total
From Osaka Itami Airport (ITM) ~90 minutes
From Chubu Centrair International Airport (Nagoya) ~2.5–3 hours
IC Cards in Nara – Suica, ICOCA, Kansai One Pass?
Nara accepts almost all major IC cards, including:
ICOCA – the regional Kansai card (best for Osaka/Kyoto/Nara/Kobe)
Suica & Pasmo – from Tokyo region
Kansai One Pass – specifically for tourists, includes ICOCA functionality + discounts at attractions. Check it out here
Keep in mind that you can’t use IC cards for Limited Express reserved seats, you’ll need to buy a ticket for those separately.
Stay Connected: Pocket Wi-Fi is Your Best Friend
Since we were staying for a long time in Japan, reliable internet was non-negotiable. We rented our Pocket Wi-Fi from Japan Wireless, which offers flexible plans for short and long stays. They even deliver it to your hotel or the airport—so convenient that even Sara didn’t need a Plan B (and that’s saying something).
Returning it is as simple as dropping the prepaid envelope into a mailbox at the airport (before security!) on your last day. Easy peasy, even for Vasco, who usually leaves logistical matters to Sara.
Gear Recommendations for Photography in Nara
These recommendations are based on the gear we used to capture everything about Nara. Our Sony A6700 (cropped sensor) paired with the Sigma 10-18mm f2.8 for wide shots and vlogs, the 35mm f1.4 for portraits and street photography, the 70-200mm f2.8 for wildlife and zoom shots, and the 16mm f1.4 for night and astro photography. We used a Marumi Black Mist 1/4 filter ( this is an equivalent). Our DJI 4K Pro Mini is also a great way to get aerial shots where you have permission to fly (check our Drone flying in Japan blog post here).
The Ultimate 4-Day Nara Itinerary
Nara is a treasure trove of historical landmarks, beautiful gardens, and natural wonders (and of course the adorable deer everywhere!). This is the itinerary we wish we had from the start—four full days, arranged by proximity so you can slow down, breathe it all in, and bring home some stunning photos.
Day 1 – The Core Icons of Nara
Todai-ji Temple
One of Japan’s most famous landmarks. Don't miss the Daibutsu (Great Buddha), housed in one of the largest wooden buildings in the world. For a fun twist, try crawling through the famous “Buddha’s nostril” hole in one of the pillars.
Admission: Free
Vasco’s Photography Tips: I suggest you use the Sigma 10–18mm for the Daibutsuden. The 35mm f1.4 is perfect for monks or detail shots of incense smoke in the side halls.
Tamukeyama Hachimangū Shrine
Just behind Todai-ji, this shrine is a quiet sanctuary often overlooked by tourists. Dedicated to Hachiman, the god of warriors, it has strong spiritual energy and tranquil surroundings.
Admission: Free
Vasco’s Photography Tips: Use the 35mm f1.4 to isolate the red torii and lanterns. The Black Mist filter creates a dreamy look if it's misty or during soft light.
Tōdai-ji Kaidan-in
This hall is part of the larger Todai-ji complex but often missed. The four heavenly kings guarding the inner hall are incredibly photogenic, especially in side light.
Admission: 600 yen
Vasco’s Photography Tips: Use 70–200mm to highlight the intricately carved Buddhist statues inside — these are some of the best-preserved sculptures in Nara.
Nandaimon Gate
This imposing wooden gate, flanked by two fierce Nio guardian statues, is a masterpiece of ancient Japanese architecture.
Admission: Free
Vasco’s Photography Tips: I think the best is to shoot the guardian Nio statues in the morning to catch front-lit detail.
Nigatsu-dō Temple
This smaller sub-temple of Todai-ji is one of Nara’s best-kept secrets. Nigatsu-do offers stunning panoramic views of Nara. It’s especially magical during sunrise and sunset.
Admission: Free
Vasco’s Photography Tips: Best light is sunset, with golden tones.
Ukimidō Pavilion (Sagiike Pond)
A picturesque octagonal pavilion that seems to float on the surface of Sagiike Pond. It’s especially beautiful in autumn.
Admission: Free
Vasco’s Photography Tips: Early morning with mist or autumn leaves is magic. Drone allowed if there's no signage (check our guide for drones in Japan here).
Isuien Garden + Neiraku Museum
A stunning garden with two distinct styles: one from the Edo period and another from the Meiji period. The Neiraku Museum also showcases Chinese and Korean artifacts. A great break from temple crowds.
Admission: 1200 yen (combo ticket)
Vasco’s Photography Tips: 35mm for subject isolation, or wide lens to capture pond reflections.
Food tip:
Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu has some delicious wagyu Katsu and it has some affordable options
Day 2 – Gardens, Shrines & Lantern Paths
Kasuga Taisha Shrine
Known for its thousands of bronze and stone lanterns, this Shinto shrine is enchanting, especially during the lantern festivals in February and August. Lantern Festivals (Feb 3 & Aug 14–15).
Admission: Free (Main shrine: 500 yen)
Vasco’s Photography Tips: Thousands of stone lanterns = cinematic gold. Use the 16mm f1.4 or equivalent to capture them :)
Manyō Botanical Garden
These gardens feature over 300 species of plants mentioned in the ancient Manyoshu poetry anthology. Visit in spring for blooming wisteria and cherry blossoms.
Admission: 500 yen
Vasco’s Photography Tips: Macro shots and shallow depth of field with the 35mm f1.4 during wisteria season (late April–early May).
Kasugayama Primeval Forest
A UNESCO-protected old-growth forest with zero modern infrastructure. You’ll find quiet trails, mossy paths, and timeless serenity.
Admission: Free
Vasco’s Photography Tips: Wildlife in soft forest light? Use the 70–200mm f2.8 or the 35mm f1.4 and listen for deer, birds, or even wild boars.
Yoshikien Garden
This tranquil garden is free for foreign tourists. It features a moss garden, a tea ceremony garden, and a flower garden.
Admission: Free for foreign tourists (passport required)
Vasco’s Photography Tips: Best for low-angle shots with a wide lens .
Afternoon Tip:
Nakatanidō – Just outside the garden path, stop for freshly-pounded mochi. You can shoot their mochi-making performance with the 35mm on burst mode.
Food Tip:
Soba-dokoro Kitahara: A charming soba restaurant with handmade noodles.
What to Eat: Cold zaru soba (buckwheat noodles served with dipping sauce) and tempura.
Day 3 – Cultural Highlights
Himuro Shrine
This small shrine is dedicated to the ice deity and has a unique story—once used to store ice in the Heian period. It's especially magical in cherry blossom season.
Admission: Free
Vasco’s Photography Tips: One of Nara’s best sakura spots in spring. Use the 16mm f1.4 wide open for foreground blossoms + torii layering.
Kōfuku-ji Temple
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Nara’s historical significance. One of the original powerful Seven Great Temples. Check out the five-story pagoda, especially in morning light or during twilight with the pagoda lights on.
Admission: 700 yen (National Treasure Museum + Eastern Golden Hall)
Vasco’s Photography Tips: Use the 35mm for people watching and the 10–18mm to frame the pagoda with the cityscape.
Gango-ji Temple
This hidden UNESCO site has the oldest roof tiles in Japan and a beautifully weathered main hall.
Admission: 500 yen
Vasco’s Photography Tips: Use the Sigma 10–18mm for roof tile detail and symmetry.
Naramachi Traditional District
A preserved merchant quarter with narrow alleys, wooden buildings, sake shops, and quiet cafés. Pop into open houses and take time to explore the backstreets.
Vasco’s Photography Tips: Street photography heaven — mix in 35mm f1.4 for subject focus and Black Mist filter for film vibes.
Food tip:
Tori Tamura – Great yakitori & sake pairing A family-run restaurant specializing in yakitori (grilled chicken skewers).
What to Eat: Go for the chef’s recommendation platter, which includes tender chicken thigh, wings, and their signature tare sauce.
Day 4 – Offbeat Adventures & Hidden Trails
Heijō Palace Historical Park
The scale of this flat, grassy complex offers a different vibe from temple-heavy Nara.
Admission: Free
Vasco’s Photography Tips: Wide open space = perfect for drone footage and ultra-wide lens shots of the former Imperial complex.
Nara National Museum
Dive into Japan’s Buddhist art history at this museum, which houses an impressive collection of statues, paintings, and ritual artifacts.
Admission: 700 yen
Vasco’s Photography Tips: No photography inside.
Uguisu Waterfall
Tucked into forest trails, this modest but serene waterfall is your reward after a short hike. Early morning = peaceful and misty.
Admission: Free
Vasco’s Photography Tips: Use the 70–200mm for waterfall detail and compression. ND filters are a must here for silky water shots.
Nara Kingyo Museum
Part art museum, part aquarium, this unique space showcases goldfish as living art.
Admission: 1200 yen
Vasco’s Photography Tips: Bring the 16mm f1.4 for indoor low-light shots; the Black Mist filter gives aquariums a surreal glow.
Food Tip:
Cafe Cojica: A cozy café with a rustic vibe.
What to Eat: Try their matcha latte and the fluffy Japanese pancakes topped with seasonal fruits.
OR
Wakakusayama Palette (若草山パレット): This is a lovely break spot for a slow lunch or a snack after your morning temple walks. Try their homemade curry or seasonal matcha desserts.
Nara is a city that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're marveling at the Great Buddha, strolling through serene gardens, or indulging in local cuisine, every moment here is a treasure. We hope this guide inspires you to plan your own unforgettable journey to Nara. Follow our socials to check extra content and videos on our itinerary and trip!
Until next time, happy wandering!