Nara, Japan

Nara

Nara was Japan's first permanent capital, and its park holds great temples, shrines and over a thousand freely roaming deer.

Nara: Nara Early Morning Tour Kyoto or Osaka Departure Available
Featured walk: Nara Early Morning Tour Kyoto or Osaka Departure Available · Photo supplied by Viator

The city on foot

Nara was the capital in the 8th century. Its temples and shrines are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Most sights are in or around Nara Park, a short walk from the stations.

What makes Nara distinctive

  • Tōdai-ji and the Great Buddha
  • Deer in Nara Park
  • Kasuga Taisha's lanterns
  • Naramachi's merchant houses

Walking tours in Nara

Hand-picked guided walks in Nara, each rated highly by travellers. Ratings and photos are from Viator; select a tour to see dates, prices and full details, and to book.

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Prices are Viator's lowest "from" price per person, converted to pounds and checked on 28 October 2026. The booking page shows the current price in your currency.

By theme: Food tours in Nara

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Main sights

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Neighbourhoods worth wandering

  • Nara Park

    The temple park.

  • Naramachi

    The old town.

  • Kintetsu Nara

    The station area.

Free self-guided walk

Temples and deer of Nara Park

A free self-guided walk in Nara, from Kōfuku-ji through Nara Park to Tōdai-ji and Kasuga Taisha.

3.2 km · 4 stops · map and directions

See the walk

Best areas to explore on foot

  1. Nara Park

    From Kōfuku-ji to Tōdai-ji.

  2. Kasuga path

    Lantern-lined path to the shrine.

  3. Naramachi

    Old lanes.

Practical walking notes

  • Terrain

    Gentle slopes.

  • Deer

    They can nip; deer crackers are sold.

  • Distances

    Station to Tōdai-ji is about 20 minutes.

When to visit

  • Spring

    Cherry blossom.

  • Autumn

    Colourful leaves.

  • Winter

    Quiet.

Getting there and getting around

Arriving

  • By rail

    Trains reach Kyoto and Osaka in under an hour.

Local transport

  • On foot

    Most sights are walkable.

Questions travellers ask about Nara

Can I feed the deer?

Yes, with the special crackers sold in the park.

Is Nara a day trip?

Yes, from Kyoto or Osaka.

How long do I need?

One day.

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Temples, gardens and wooden streets from a thousand years as capital

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Sources and review date

This guide was last updated on 2026-10-28. Opening hours, fares and services change; please confirm details with official sources before travelling.