Best Things to do in Nara | Must-see attractions 2025

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Todai-ji Temple

8:00 AM–5:30 PM

Monument

雑司町406-1

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Todai-ji Temple in Nara, Japan features the world's largest bronze Buddha statue, offering a rich historical experience in one of Japan's most significant Buddhist sites.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Paid entry. Adults: ¥600, Students: ¥300, Children under 6: Free.

Nigatsu-do Temple

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

406-1 Zoshicho Todaiji Temple

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Nigatsu-do Temple in Nara, Japan, is a significant Buddhist temple founded in 752 AD, known for its unique architecture and breathtaking views of the city.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required.

Toshodai-ji

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

13-46 Gojocho

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Toshodai-ji is an 8th-century Buddhist temple in Nara, Japan, renowned for its Golden Hall, recognized as a national treasure and UNESCO World Heritage site.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may have an entrance fee.

Isui-en

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Park

74 Suimoncho

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Isui-en is a historic Japanese garden in Nara, Japan, featuring tea houses, ponds, and ancient trees, offering a glimpse into traditional landscape design.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

600 JPY per adult; Free for children under 15.

Nara National Museum

10:00 AM–5:50 PM

Museum

50 Noboriojicho

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Nara National Museum showcases Buddhist art, featuring over 100 statues and ancient bronzes. Explore cultural treasures and detailed exhibitions in a modern setting.

Duration: 2-3 hours recommended.

General admission is free, but special exhibitions may require tickets (e.g., ¥1100 for fall exhibit).

Yakushi-ji

Mo-Su 08:30-17:00

Church

西ノ京町457

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Yakushi-ji is a 7th-century Buddhist temple in Nara, Japan, originally established by Emperor Temmu in 680 as a prayer for his wife’s health. It features historic Buddhist art.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require paid tickets.

Saidai-ji

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

1 Chome-1-5 西大寺芝町 Nara

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Saidai-ji, founded in 765 CE, is a significant Buddhist temple in Nara, Japan, serving as the main temple for the Shingon Risshu sect.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a paid ticket.

Akishinodera Temple

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

757 Akishinocho

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Akishinodera Temple, a significant Buddhist temple in Nara, Japan, is known for its historical architecture and serene gardens.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance.

Nara Prefectural Office Bldg. Rooftop Plaza

Open all day

Public Building

30 Noboriojicho

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Nara Prefectural Office Bldg. Rooftop Plaza offers panoramic city views, a green relaxation area, and artworks, ideal for a quiet break in Nara, Japan.

Duration: 30-60 minutes.

Free.

Hokkeji Temple

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

882 Hokkejicho

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Hokkeji Temple in Nara, Japan, is a historic Buddhist site known for its unique architecture and serene surroundings, offering a glimpse into Japan's spiritual heritage.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Special events may require a paid ticket.

Hannyaji Temple

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

221 Hannyajicho

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Hannyaji Temple, a historical Buddhist temple in Nara, Japan, offers unique architecture and a serene natural setting, attracting visitors with its cultural significance.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for temple maintenance.

Naramachi Museum

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Museum

14-2 Nishinoshinyacho

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Naramachi Museum in Nara, Japan displays Edo and Meiji Period artifacts, showcasing tools and items collected since 1907 by the Minami family.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for special exhibitions.

Daian-ji

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

大安寺2-18-1

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Daian-ji is a historic Buddhist temple in Nara, Japan, housing unique architectural features and cultural artifacts, offering insight into Japan's spiritual heritage.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Special guided tours may incur a fee.

Ryosen-ji

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

3879 Nakamachi

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Ryosen-ji, a Buddhist temple in Nara, Japan, established in the eighth century, features a National Treasure Hondō and several Important Cultural Properties.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Yoshiki-en

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Garden

60-1 Noboriojicho

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Yoshiki-en is a Japanese garden in Nara, Japan, renowned for its traditional layout, moss garden, and historic significance since 1919.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free for foreign guests with a passport. Standard admission may apply for domestic visitors.

The Nara Episcopal Church

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

45 Noborioji-cho

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The Nara Episcopal Church in Nara, Japan, is an Anglican church known for its historical significance and unique architectural features within a serene environment.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are accepted for maintenance and community services.

Ruins of the Koriyama Castle

Open 24 hours

Castle

2 Jonaicho

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Ruins of the Koriyama Castle in Nara, Japan, offer a glimpse into Sengoku-era history with scenic views and vibrant autumn foliage.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. No charge for access to the ruins and surrounding park.

Naramachi Mechanical Toy Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

7

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Naramachi Mechanical Toy Museum in Nara, Japan exhibits over 400 traditional Japanese toys, showcasing the artistry in mechanical craftsmanship and cultural heritage.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

Adults: 600 JPY, Children: 300 JPY. Discounts available for groups.

Omiya Bridge

Open 24 hours

Bridge

150 Horencho

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Omiya Bridge in Nara, Japan, spans a picturesque lake, renowned for its scenic views and striking architecture, attracting visitors for its history and beauty.

Duration: 30 minutes.

Free.

Manyo Botanical Garden

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Garden

160 Kasuganocho Kasuga Grand Shrine

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Manyo Botanical Garden, established in 1932, is located next to Kasuga Shrine in Nara, Japan, showcasing diverse plant species and serene landscapes.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. Special events may have a fee.

Nara Prefectural Museum of Art

10:00 AM–5:30 PM

Museum

登大路町10-6

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Nara Prefectural Museum of Art in Nara, Japan, displays a diverse collection of Japanese art, emphasizing local cultural heritage and artistic achievements.

Duration: 2 hours.

Paid. Adult tickets cost 500 yen, and discounts are available for students and seniors.

Kofuku-ji Temple National Treasure Hall

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

48 Noboriojicho

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Kofuku-ji Temple National Treasure Hall in Nara houses important Buddhist artifacts, including statues and scrolls. A key cultural site in Japan, established in the 8th century.

Duration: 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Okumura Commemorative Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

4 Kasuganocho

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Okumura Commemorative Museum in Nara, Japan, showcases the legacy of inventor Masayuki Okumura, featuring historical technology and innovative exhibits.

Duration: 2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a paid ticket.

Irie Taikichi Memorial Museum of Photography Nara City

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

600-1 Takabatakecho

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Irie Taikichi Memorial Museum of Photography Nara City features photography exhibits in a contemporary glass-walled building located in Nara, Japan.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Yamato Koriyama Catholic Church

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

1-33 Jonancho

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Yamato Koriyama Catholic Church in Nara, Japan, features beautiful Gothic architecture and serves as a significant cultural and spiritual landmark in the region.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations accepted for maintenance and events.

Hokke-do Hall

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

雑司町406-1 (東大寺)

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Hokke-do Hall in Nara, Japan, features serene Buddha statues and intricate wood carvings, showcasing traditional Buddhist architecture with historical significance.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Great South Gate

All day access

Pagoda

406-1 Zoshicho Todai-ji Temple

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Great South Gate in Nara, Japan, dates back to 1199, showcasing traditional Japanese architecture and rich historical significance, serving as the main entrance to Todai-ji Temple.

Duration: Approx. 1 hour.

Free.

Nara Palace Site Historical Park

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

佐紀町字大り宮

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Nara Palace Site Historical Park features the remnants of the Nara Palace, the former imperial residence of Japan's Nara period (710-794 AD), set in a spacious outdoor park.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some guided tours may incur a fee.

Fuku-in Temple

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

1365 Takabatakecho south of Shinyakushi-ji Temple

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Fuku-in Temple in Nara, Japan, is a serene site dedicated to matchmaking and relationship healing, attracting visitors seeking love and closure.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Prayer services may incur a donation.

Buddhist Art Library

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

50 Noboriojicho Nara National Museum

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The Buddhist Art Library in Nara, Japan hosts a vast collection of Buddhist manuscripts and artifacts, serving as a center for research and preservation.

Duration: 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may have entry fees.

Yaezakura Country Club

6:30 AM–6:00 PM

Golf Course

1211 Yamadacho

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Yaezakura Country Club in Nara, Japan, offers a meticulously designed golf experience amid lush landscapes and a serene environment.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

Paid. Adult: ¥8,000, Child: ¥4,000. Discounts for seniors available.

Shin-Yakushi-ji

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

1352 Takabatakecho

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Shin-Yakushi-ji in Nara, Japan, is an 8th-century Buddhist temple housing revered statues of the Twelve Heavenly Generals and exquisite Buddhist treasures.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Kofuku-ji Temple 3 Storey Tower

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

48 Noboriojicho Kofuku-ji Temple

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Kofuku-ji Temple's 3 Storey Tower in Nara, Japan, is a historic Buddhist structure founded in 710 A.D., symbolizing the country's rich cultural heritage.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not mandatory.

Yoshikien Garden

8:30 AM–5:00 PM

Garden

登大路町63

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Yoshikien Garden is a tranquil garden in Nara, Japan, featuring beautiful landscapes, traditional Japanese design, and seasonal flora. It offers a peaceful retreat for visitors.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. No paid tickets are required.

Todaiji-museum

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

水門町100

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Todaiji Museum in Nara, Japan, exhibits art and artifacts related to Buddhist culture, housed in a modern architectural space adjacent to the Great Buddha.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Nara Kasugano International Forum Iraka

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

雑司町469

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Nara Kasugano International Forum Iraka is a modern convention center in Nara, Japan, known for its autumn foliage and hosting various cultural and business events.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free entry to the center; specific events may have paid admission.

Yata-dera

Open 24 hours

Pagoda

Japan

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Yata-dera, a historic Buddhist temple in Yamatokoriyama, Nara, Japan, is renowned for its autumn foliage and hiking trails.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. No admission fee required.

The Kids' Science Museum of Photons

10:00 - 16:30

Museum

8 Chome-1-6 Umemidai

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The Kids' Science Museum of Photons in Kizugawa, Japan, focuses on engaging children in science through interactive exhibits, experiments, and educational programs.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special workshops may require a nominal fee.

Nara Park

Open 24 hours

Park

469 Zoshicho

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Nara Park in Nara, Japan, features ancient temples, the Nara National Museum, and free-roaming deer, offering a mix of culture and nature in a landscaped setting.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free. Some museums and temples may charge an entry fee.

Nara University

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

山陵町1500

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Nara University, located in Misasagi-cho, Nara, Japan, offers diverse academic programs and a beautiful campus that merges modern architecture with natural surroundings.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Access to university grounds is open to the public, but specific events may charge fees.

Nara University of Education

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

高畑町

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Nara University of Education is a distinguished higher education institution in Nara, Japan, focusing on training educators with a strong emphasis on research and community involvement.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events may require a paid ticket.

Tezukayama University

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

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Tezukayama University in Nara, Japan, focuses on innovative education and cultural development with a strong emphasis on community engagement and research.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free access to public areas. Specific events may require tickets.

Nara Prefectural University

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

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Nara Prefectural University in Nara, Japan, offers higher education with a focus on local culture, nature, and sustainability.

Duration: Around 2 hours.

Free. Some specific events may require a paid ticket.

Neiraku Art Museum

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Japan

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Neiraku Art Museum in Nara, Japan, presents an elegant garden, Isui-en, and a collection of Chinese and Korean ceramics and bronzes, all with a rich historical background.

Duration: About 2 hours.

¥850. Admission covers the museum and garden access.

Great Buddha Hall

8:00 AM–5:30 PM

Church

雑司町406-1 (東大寺)

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Great Buddha Hall in Nara, Japan, houses the world's largest bronze Buddha statue, surrounded by historical architecture and serene nature.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.