Many tourists visit Nara with a one-day excursion from Kyoto or Osaka. Such a choice is reasonable if you have very little time, which is often the case for journeys to Japan that last less than 2 weeks.
There are reasons to opt for a longer stay. Nara is a wonderful little city that boasts a great amount of cultural heritage, archaeological sites and ancient temples and shrines of exceptional importance and beauty.
Nara 1,5-day itinerary
Nara can easily be reached by train from Kyoto and Osaka in around 60-70 minutes. Many of the city’s most important temples, shrines and gardens are located within the limits of the beautiful Nara Park. The area can be visited on foot with pleasure. City buses offer a convenient alternative.
If you choose to stay for at least one night in Nara you will be able to spend more time, enjoy a more relaxing pace, appreciate more the places you visit and add a few visits outside the ambit of Nara Park. Furthermore, you may choose to visit the less touristy spots and the ordinary city, in particular the area around Nara-machi.
If you are keen on history and religious architecture, you will certainly choose to reach the great temples in Nishinokyo and Ikaruga, in the city’s surroundings. These are among the nation’s most ancient and important places of worship.
Itinerary: Nara Park and Nishinokyo
Finding a hotel between Nara Station and Nara Park is a very convenient choice. Cheap and comfortable guest houses are located near Nara-machi.
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Nara 1,5-day itinerary Nara Park and Nishinokyo Evening arrival |
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Where to stay |
Nara Station, Naramachi |
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Day 1 |
Destinations:
How to get around:
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Day 2 (morning) |
Destinations:
How to get around:
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Morning arrival
If you choose to reach Nara by noon, we suggest you leave your baggage at the station and begin your sightseeing path right away. You can devote the afternoon of the first day to Nishinokyo and Ikaruga and the next full day to central Nara.
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