Exploring Nara - A Half Day Adventure
Embarking on a day trip from Kyoto to Nara, we found ourselves immersed in the charm of this ancient Japanese city.
From the delightful streets adorned with small local shops to encounters with the famous Nara deer, our journey unfolded with a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty in a half day.
What to Do
Access to Nara from Kyoto
Nara Park
Kasuga Taisha
Todaiji
Bus in Nara city
1.Access to Nara from Kyoto
Our adventure began with a quick 35-minute ride on the JR Kintetsu express line from Kyoto Station.
Emerging from the east exit of JR Nara station, we headed to Sanjo-dori, a narrow street lined with local shops. One noteworthy stop was Nakatani-dou Mochi shop. We even missed the world-famous mochi pounding performance, indulged in the soft Yomogi-mochi (Japanese mugwort mochi) filled with red bean paste coated with soy bean powder, It was a delightful introduction to Nara's culinary delights.
2.Nara Park
A brief 15-minute walk from the station brought us to the enchanting Nara Park.
The park is established in 1880, it’s also a home to approximately 1300 deer, and the iconic Shika senbei (deer crackers), 220 yen, provided us with the unique opportunity to interact with these cute animals. The deer, known for their bowing, added a touch of whimsy to the picturesque surroundings.
3.Kasuga Taisha Shrine
Continuing our journey through the park, we reached Kasuga Taisha, a stunning shrine boasting a vibrant red facade.
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the shrine is adorned with 3,000 Tourou lights, traditional Japanese lanterns that have graced the surroundings for centuries. The shrine's commitment to preservation, with a fresh coat of red paint every two decades, added to the allure of this cultural gem.
4.Todaiji
Our exploration culminated at Todaiji Temple, once among the seven greatest temples in Japan.
The Daibutsu-den, a colossal hall housing the world's largest bronze Buddha, captivated our senses. The intricate details of the Minami Daimon, the south gate guarded by two towering Kongo-Rikishi-Zou figures, showcased the awe-inspiring craftsmanship of ancient Japan.
While the temple complex offers a museum and more, we recommend allocating 2-3 hours to fully appreciate its grandeur.
5.Travel Nara City Tip
For those weary from exploration, the Nara City Loop Line Bus proves to be a convenient option.
Priced at 220 yen per ride, the bus stops at major tourist spots and temples. We found it particularly useful on our journey back from Todaiji Temple to JR Nara Station, offering a comfortable respite for tired feet.
Lastly:
Nara, with its seamless blend of history and nature left an indelible mark on our travel memories. From the playful interactions with deer to the serene beauty of shrines and temples, every moment in this ancient city felt like a step back in time, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling modernity of urban Japan.
