Itinerary Overview
Start your day with a bus ride from the station to Kasuga Taisha Shrine, then pass through Wakakusa-yama, visit Nigatsu-do and Sangatsu-do, and finish your journey with a visit to Todai-ji and Nara Park, before returning to the station.
First Stop: Kasuga Taisha Shrine
• How to Get There: After getting off the bus, it’s just a short walk to the shrine.
• When to Visit: We arrived around 9 AM and left around 10:30 AM. At that time, there weren’t many tourists, which gave us a serene experience.
• Why Visit: Founded in 768 AD, Kasuga Taisha is the head shrine of over 1,000 Kasuga Shrines across Japan. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is renowned for its striking red color and the 2,000 stone lanterns lining the path leading to the shrine. The shrine’s ethereal ambiance is enhanced by the natural surroundings, making it a peaceful stop. In the movie Spirited Away, the masks used for the dance performances were inspired by those from Kasuga Taisha.
• Entrance Fees: Free to visit. However, the main hall costs 500 yen to enter, the treasure hall is 400 yen, and the Manyo Botanical Garden is 500 yen.
Second Stop: Wakakusa-yama (Wakakusa Mountain)
• How to Get There: From Kasuga Taisha, take a walk following the route on Google Maps.
• Highlight: On the way, you’ll pass by the Mizutani Tea House. After crossing the road, you’ll find some stairs that lead to the base of Wakakusa-yama.
• Why Visit: Originally, I planned to hike up the mountain, but due to the hot midday sun, I opted to skip it. Wakakusa-yama is known for its panoramic views of Nara, and it offers a beautiful hike for those who enjoy nature.
• Tip: If you’re visiting in the summer months, consider hiking in the cooler morning or evening hours.
Third Stop: Nigatsu-do and Sangatsu-do (Passing By Shōsōin and Hōzōin)
• How to Get There: From Wakakusa, continue downhill to Nigatsu-do and Sangatsu-do.
• Why Visit: These temples are part of Todai-ji, and they provide a stunning glimpse into Japan’s religious history. Nigatsu-do, in particular, has an impressive view of Nara city from its platform.
• Entrance Fees: For the large structures like Todai-ji’s Great Buddha Hall, a 500 yen fee applies.
• Details: While walking along the way, you can admire the unique Buddhist architecture, and you’ll pass interesting landmarks like the Shōsōin and Hōzōin. The Nigatsu-do (Second Month Hall) offers a peaceful atmosphere and a view of the entire city.
Fourth Stop: Todai-ji and the Great Buddha Hall (Daibutsuden)
• Why Visit: Todai-ji is one of the most iconic temples in Japan, founded in the 8th century by Emperor Shomu. It is home to the Great Buddha of Nara, which stands 15 meters tall and is one of Japan’s largest bronze statues. The Great Buddha Hall (Daibutsuden) is the largest wooden building in the world, and it’s awe-inspiring to visit.
• History: In 753, the monk Ganjin arrived from China and, during his time at Todai-ji, built the ordination platform where the emperor and other officials received Buddhist precepts. It’s a site of historical importance, and you’ll also find the Kaidan-in, where these ceremonies took place.
• Entrance Fees: Admission to the Great Buddha Hall is 500 yen, and additional structures like the Sangatsu-do and Kaidan-in also require tickets.
Final Stop: Nara Park and Return to the Station
• Why Visit: Nara Park is famous for its friendly and free-roaming deer. It’s a peaceful spot where you can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. It’s also a great place to reflect on your journey before heading back to the station.
• Tip: Nara Park is famous for its deer, but be sure to be mindful of their behavior. While they’re generally calm, feeding them too much or getting too close may make them overly eager for food.
Conclusion
This route is designed to help you explore Nara in a relaxed, quiet manner while still experiencing all of its major highlights. By visiting during off-peak hours and following this new itinerary, you’ll have a much more tranquil and fulfilling trip, free from large crowds. Enjoy your time in Nara, and immerse yourself in the history and beauty of this ancient city!