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Nara: A Hidden Gem of Japan
As a National Geographic Journalist, I have had the privilege of visiting many beautiful cities around the world. But, nothing can beat the charm and tranquility of Nara, a small city in Japan. The city is located in the Kansai region and is well-known for its history, culture, and wildlife.
The scenery of Nara is breathtaking, with cherry blossom trees and greenery everywhere. You can find towering trees, magnificent lakes, and vibrant botanical gardens around every corner. What I like most about Nara is its serenity and the vibe of the city which is full of culture and history. The wildlife in Nara Park is also something that should not be missed – the sight of wild deer roaming around the city is a unique and memorable experience.
However, the downside of Nara is that it can be quite expensive. With an average cost of living of around $150 per day, it is more expensive than some other cities in Japan. The cost of food, accommodations, and transportation adds up quickly.
Here are the top 20 points of interest in Nara:
1. Todaiji Temple: 406-1 Zoshicho, Nara 630-8211, Nara Prefecture – Website: http://www.todaiji.or.jp/
2. Nara Park: 469 Zoshi-cho, Nara 630-8211, Nara Prefecture – Yelp Top Review: “The deers are so cute” Rating: 4.5/5
3. Kofukuji Temple: 48 Noboriojicho, Nara 630-8213, Nara Prefecture – Website: http://www.kohfukuji.com/
4. Yoshiki-en Garden: 30 Noboriojicho, Nara 630-8213, Nara Prefecture – Yelp Top Review: “A peaceful Japanese Garden” Rating: 4/5
5. Kasuga-taisha Shrine: 160 Kasuganocho, Nara 630-8212, Nara Prefecture – Website: http://www.kasugataisha.or.jp/
6. Isuien Garden: 74 Suimoncho, Nara 630-8213, Nara Prefecture – Yelp Top Review: “A beautiful garden that’s worth a visit” Rating: 4/5
7. Naramachi: 28 Noboriojicho, Nara 630-8213, Nara Prefecture – Website: https://naramachi.com/
8. Yakushiji Temple: 457 Nishinokyocho, Nara 630-8563, Nara Prefecture – Website: http://www.nara-yakushiji.com/
9. Nara National Museum: 50 Noboriojicho, Nara 630-8213, Nara Prefecture – Website: http://www.narahaku.go.jp/english/
10. Sarusawa-ike Pond: 9 Higashimukinakamachi, Nara 630-8215, Nara Prefecture – Yelp Top Review: “One of the best places to relax and absorb the beauty of nature.” Rating: 4/5
11. Horyuji Temple: 1-1 Horyuji Sannai, Ikaruga-cho, Ikoma-gun 636-0115, Nara Prefecture – Website: http://www.horyuji.or.jp/
12. Nara Prefectural Cultural Hall: 18 Noboriojicho, Nara 630-8215, Nara Prefecture – Website: https://www.nara-cc.com/
13. Heijo Palace: 17-4 Inokuradani, Nara 630-8343, Nara Prefecture – Website: http://www.sekihaku.pref.nara.jp/rekishikan/
14. Yamato Bunkakan: 250 Kyohigashiyama, Yamatokoriyama 639-1121, Nara Prefecture – Website: http://www.yamato-bunkakan.jp/
15. Asuka-dera Temple: 238-1 Asukacho Nishinokyo, Takaichi-gun 634-0133, Nara Prefecture – Website: http://asukadera.jp/
16. Heijo-kyo Palace Site: 121 Utsubo-cho, Nara 630-0000, Nara Prefecture – Yelp Top Review: “A must-visit place for history buffs” Rating: 4/5
17. Nishinokyo En’you-ji Temple: 811 Kusunokicho, Nara, 630-8115, Nara Prefecture – Website: http://enyouji.org/
18. Todaiji Museum: 406-1 Zoshicho, Nara, Nara Prefecture 630-8211 – Website: http://www.todaiji.or.jp/
19. Nara City Museum of Photography: 2-1-2, Nijyo-Oji, Nara City, Nara Prefecture 630-8068 – Website: https://www.city.nara.lg.jp/kankou/English/museum/photography.html
20. Koriyama Castle Site Historical Park: 130 Tawaramotocho Shimodaito, Yamatokoriyama, Nara Prefecture 639-1133 – Website: http://www.yamato-kanko.jp/
In Nara, street food plays an integral role in the local culture. Here are the top 20 street food options and their prices:
1. Kakinoha-zushi – $2.43
2. Mitarashi dango – $1.21
3. Yakitori – $1.81
4. Okonomiyaki – $3.02
5. Higashimuki shopping street dango – $1.52
6. Aonori okonomiyaki – $3.62
7. Takoyaki – $3.02
8. Kakigori – $2.72
9. Sakuramochi – $2.43
10. Korokke – $1.51
11. Omiyage-honpo – $3.62
12. Kuzu-mochi – $1.82
13. Sata andagi – $1.21
14. Taiyaki – $2.42
15. Tako senbei – $3.02
16. Nikuman – $1.81
17. Mame daifuku – $2.43
18. Zenzai – $2.02
19. Miso katsu – $5.92
20. Gyoza – $3.32
The best places to find street food in Nara are Higashimuki Shopping Street, Nara-Machi Shopping Street, and Kashihara Jingu Shrine.
If you plan to stay in Nara, the following are the top 10 hotels and Airbnb options:
1. Ryokan Matsumae: $118/night – Rating: 4.5/5
2. Nara Hotel: $222/night – Rating: 4.0/5
3. Guesthouse Naramachi: $51/night – Rating: 4.0/5
4. Suien Suite Kyoto Nara: $322/night – Rating: 4.5/5
5. The Deer Park Inn: $142/night – Rating: 4.0/5
6. Nara Royal Hotel: $149/night – Rating: 3.5/5
7. Nara Homestay Inn: $82/night – Rating: 4.5/5
8. Nakagyozangai Guesthouse Nara Komachi: $110/night – Rating: 4.5/5
9. The Wooden Spoon: $168/night – Rating: 4.5/5
10. Airbnb Cozy Home: $58/night – Rating: 4.5/5
My Top 5 Recommendations in Nara:
1. Ryokan Matsumae: A traditional Japanese Ryokan located in Nara’s Naramachi district that combines comfort, elegance, and heritage that offers a unique and authentic experience. The hospitality and scenic beauty of the hotel along with its affordable price make it a must-visit place.
2. Nara Homestay Inn: This warm and friendly homestay offers a great deal of flexibility and places itself in the heart of Nara. It’s perfect for those who want to explore the city by foot.
3. Higashimuki shopping street: A lively and bustling shopping street that’s perfect for souvenirs, snacks or just a walk. It’s located nearby Nara Park, which makes it a popular destination for tourists.
4. Nara National Museum: A repository of culture, Art, and architecture dating back to olden times. Take a fascinating and educational tour around the museum to learn about the history and heritage of Japan.
5. Yakushiji Temple: Situated in the eastern part of Nara city, this historic temple boasts a rich history and amazing architecture. It’s an impressive site to visit and it’s serene surroundings will make a nice escape from the busy city life.
If you’re planning a 3-day trip to Nara, here’s the perfect itinerary:
Day 1:
1. Start early and visit Nara Park to see the wild deer and enjoy the cherry blossoms.
2. Have lunch at Yoshikien Garden Express Café and try their Matcha Latte and Matcha Parfait.
3. Visit Todaiji Temple, which is just a short walk from Yoshikien Garden.
4. Have dinner at Nakatanidou, which is famous for its delicious and freshly made mochi.
5. End your day with a stroll along Higashimuki shopping street, where you can find various street food options and souvenirs.
Day 2:
1. Start your day by visiting Kasuga Taisha Shrine and explore its beautiful shrines.
2. Afterward have lunch in Kasuganocho at Kura Japanese Pickles &Sweets Shop, where you can try various Japanese pickles.
3. Explore around Naramachi before visiting Kofukuji Temple, Heijo Palace, or Nara National Museum.
4. For dinner, go to Akishino and have a taste of their delicious and authentically made Japanese cuisine.
Day 3:
1. Start early by visiting Asuka-dera Temple to catch the beautiful sunrise.
2. Stop to have breakfast at Suke6diner, a cozy and warm café that offers home-baked and healthy breakfasts.
3. Visit Yamato-bunkakan and Nara-CC, which are located in Nara city, and soak up some Japanese history and culture.
4. For lunch and dinner, explore the streets of Nara and have a taste of some of the famous street foods.
In conclusion, Nara is a hidden gem of Japan that’s worth visiting. With its rich history, culture, and serene scenery, it’s an ideal destination for anyone seeking tranquility and beauty. Known for its wildlife, street food, and ancient temples, Nara is a city that you should not miss! I would rate Nara 9 out of 10 stars due to its rich culture, unique wildlife and excellent cuisine.
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