How much time is needed in Nara?

How much time is needed in Nara? One day is sufficient to see most of the sights within Nara. You can do this itinerary starting and finishing in Kyoto or Osaka if you wish, but you might find it more relaxing to stay one night in Nara.

How much time do you need in Kyoto?

With a medium stay of 4-5 days in Kyoto, you'll have the opportunity to delve deeper into the city's rich history and culture. This extended duration allows you to venture beyond the most famous attractions and explore some of Kyoto's lesser-known gems.

How much is the bullet train from Kyoto to Nara?

The one way trip takes 45 minutes, costs 720 yen and is covered by the Japan Rail Pass. For the same fare, the trip could also be made by twice-hourly local trains in 75 minutes. Twice-hourly limited express trains take about 35 minutes and cost 1280 yen for the one way trip from Kyoto Station to Kintetsu Nara Station.

What food is Nara known for?

Why is Nara so popular?

Nara, once known as Heijo-kyo, was the first capital of Japan (710-794). It's home to 3 of Japan's World Heritage Sites and many impressive shrines, temples and ruins.

Is there anything to do in Nara?

Nara's sights include Todaiji Temple, Kofukuji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Heijo Palace, Nara National Museum, the Neiraku Museum and the Isuien Garden Complex.

Can you do Nara in half a day?

If that is the case, don't despair: A half-day (four hours) is enough to see a lot of Nara's major sights. The itinerary described here is basically an abbreviated version of the one-day itinerary above. Start from Kintetsu Nara Station and walk up Nobori-oji Street.

Can Nara be done on a day trip?

It depends on how much you want to see in Nara. A day trip will be just fine for major sites in central Nara such as Todaiji, Nara Park, Tofukuji and Kasha Shrine, but if you want to see sites not in central Nara such as Horyuji, Toshodaiji and Yakushiji, then you should spend a night.

Is Nara closer to Kyoto or Osaka?

Nara is a small but hugely historic city lying around 40KM to the direct south of Kyoto and 35KM to the east of Osaka – it takes around 50 minutes to reach Nara from both starting points. The city is serviced by two main train stations – Kintetsu-Nara Station and JR Nara Station.

How do you get around Nara?

Buses & Bus Tours Nara Kotsu operates the prefecture's extensive bus network, making it possible to travel to many of the more remote areas not served by rail. They also run many tourist-friendly bus routes linking the key attractions in Nara City, and in other popular areas like Asuka.