Nara Park
Located to the east of Nara’s city center, Nara Park is a short walk from Nara Station. Spanning approximately 502 hectares, the park is home to famous landmarks such as Tōdai-ji Temple, Mount Wakakusa, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and the National Museum. Spend half a day leisurely strolling through the park, soaking in its tranquil beauty. In autumn, the verdant slopes of Mount Wakakusa transform into a vibrant palette of red and gold, with historic buildings standing gracefully amid shifting light and shadows. No matter the season, Nara’s friendly deer will eagerly approach visitors, especially when food is involved—a delightful (if slightly chaotic) truth of the park.
Tips:
• Address: Nara Park, Nara City, Nara Prefecture
• Phone: +81-742-22-0375
• Access: About a 5-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station
Mount Wakakusa
Standing 342 meters tall, Mount Wakakusa is nestled deep within Nara Park. Its grass-covered slopes are a grazing ground for Nara’s deer, making it an idyllic spot to visit. The mountain features three viewing platforms, and if time allows, hiking to the summit is highly recommended. From the top, you can enjoy sweeping views of Nara City. On clear days, the experience feels like a countryside retreat, with white clouds drifting over green fields and deer roaming nearby. Each season brings a distinct beauty, but the gentle breeze and sense of serenity remain constant.
Tips:
• Address: Zōshi-chō, Nara City, Nara Prefecture
• Phone: +81-742-22-0375
• Admission:
• 150 yen (approx. ¥9 RMB) for visitors aged middle school and above
• 80 yen (approx. ¥5 RMB) for children aged 3 and above
• Access:
• About a 30-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station
• Or take Bus #70 or #97 from JR Nara Station to “Kasuga Taisha Honden,” then walk 5 minutes
Tōdai-ji Temple
As the world’s largest wooden structure, Tōdai-ji Temple is a masterpiece of historical and architectural significance. Its name derives from its location to the east of Heijō-kyō (Nara’s ancient name). The temple complex includes the Great Buddha Hall, Nandaimon Gate, Nigatsudō, and Sangatsudō, featuring elegant Tang dynasty-style architecture. Despite surviving fires and hardships, the temple was restored in 1692, preserving its grandeur.
Tips:
• Address: 406-1 Zōshi-chō, Nara City, Nara Prefecture
• Phone: +81-742-22-5511
• Admission:
• 600 yen (approx. ¥37 RMB) for middle school students and above
• 300 yen (approx. ¥18 RMB) for elementary school students
• Access: About a 20-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station
Hannyaji Temple
Nestled in Hannyaji-chō, just a 15-minute drive from Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Hannyaji Temple is a hidden gem that feels like stepping into a poetic landscape. At first glance, it may appear like any other Japanese temple, but stepping through its mountain gate reveals a stunning wonderland of blooming flowers. This seemingly unassuming gate, a National Treasure known as the “Rōmon,” is Japan’s oldest structure of its kind. Beyond the vibrant fields of cosmos flowers, the temple houses various invaluable artifacts, including the Standing Amida Nyorai Buddha statue—a must-see treasure.
Tips:
• Address: 221 Hannyaji-chō, Nara City, Nara Prefecture
• Phone: +81-742-22-6287
• Admission:
• 500 yen (approx. ¥31 RMB) for adults
• 200 yen (approx. ¥12 RMB) for middle school students
• 100 yen (approx. ¥6 RMB) for elementary school students
• Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Conclusion
Nara’s charm goes far beyond its famous deer, with countless reasons to keep you coming back for more. Whether it’s breathtaking natural beauty, historical landmarks, or tranquil moments of discovery, this small city offers endless delights waiting to be explored.