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Nara Travel Guide
Home - Travel Guide - Nara Guide
Nara Travel Overview:
"The imperial city of Nara is in its height of glory, like the fragrant flowers in full bloom," as Ono-no-Oyu sang its praises in Man'yo-shu, Japan's first poetry anthology compiled in the 8th century, Nara, the capital city at the time, justifies either an easy day trip for curious sightseers from Kyoto or Osaka or a couple of days visit for history buffs and culture vultures.
Although the permanence of the ancient Heijokyo Capital lasted for only 84 years before the capital was moved the present-day Kyoto, which was then called Heiankyo and had held such honor for more than 1,000 years, it is during the the brief period between 710 and 794 that the maturity of the legendary Yamato Civilization came into being, and it is Nara that still holds a creditable preeminence as Japan's first permanent capital and a veritable supremacy in the number of architectural masterpieces which have been designated as National Treasures in Japan.
With the the beauty of pastel hues of the fragrant flora in spring and fall foliage in autumn, the long-standing ceremonious rites and festivities as well as the traditional arts and crafts, and most noteworthily, the majesty of the UNESCO World Hritage Sites listed temples, shrines and palaces, such as the Todai-ji Temple, Kofuku-ji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Gango-ji Temple, Yakushi-ji Temple, Toshodai-ji Temple and Heijo Palace, Nara is arguably the compact version of Kyoto.
Having much of its glazed green tiled roofs and vermilion pillars, as well as the added attraction of free-roaming deer grazing and gamboling in the verdant pasture, enlosed in the expansive confines of the vast Nara Park instead of yielding their position to the invasion of modernization and urban construction, Nara surely has more foresight to preserve its historical and cultural treasures in a much more instantly agreeable and tangible way than Kyoto.
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1. UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Gango-ji Temple:
Contact: 0742-23-1377;
Location: 11 Chuincho, Nara City;
Highlights: the mandala which Priest Chiko painted, its ancient tiles dati... More>>>
Gango-ji Temple:
Contact: 0742-23-1377;
Location: 11 Chuincho, Nara City;
Highlights: the mandala which Priest Chiko painted, its ancient tiles dati... More>>>
1. UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Gango-ji Temple:
Contact: 0742-23-1377;
Location: 11 Chuincho, Nara City;
Highlights: the mandala which Priest Chiko painted, its ancient tiles dating back to the Asuka era, which are used on roofs of Zenshitsu (Buddhist priests' living quarter), as well as of the Gokurakubo Hondo (main hall), the Stone Buddha images, the miniature Five-story Pagoda, etc.
Heijo Palace Site:
Contact: 0742-34-3931;
Location: in the northern part of Nara, 20 min walk from Kintetsu Saidaiji Station;
Highlights: Chodo-in (formal ceremony venue), Daigoku-den (Great Hall of State, where decrees were issued and national affairs were conducted), Dairi (the Emperor¡¯s residence), Suzaku-Mon Gate (formal gate to the Heijo Palace), To-in (government offices), To-in Garden (site of aristocrats' banquets and ceremonies), Excavation Site Exhibition Hall & Nara Palace Site Museum, etc.
Horyu-ji Temple:
Contact: 0745-75-2555;
Location: 1-1 Horyuji Sannai, Ikaruga-cho, Ikoma-gun;
Hightlights: Kondo (Golden Hall, holds fifty walls of murals and the Shaka Triad, bronze Yakushi and Amida Nyorai statues, Kudara Kannon and other national treasures), the Five-story Pagoda, Yumedono Hall (Hall of Dreams, houses the Yumedono (Guze) Kannon), Chumon (Inner Gate, with its entasis columns and distinct brackets and railings), etc.
Kasuga-yama Hill Primeval Forest:
Contact: 0742-22-0375;
Location: Kasuganocho, on Kasuga-yama hill, to the east of Kasuga Taisha Shrine;
Highlights: an natural area retains its primitive character such as the free-roaming deer and glossy-leafed forest, and its sacred status as the sanctuary of a major Shinto deity enshrined in the Kasuga Taisha Shrine.
Kofuku-ji Temple:
Contact: 0742-22-7755;
Location: 48 Noborioji-machi, Nara City;
Highlights: Kokuhokan (Kofukuji National Treasure House), Gojunoto (Five-storied Pagoda), Sanjunoto (Three-storied Pagoda), Sarusawa-no-ike pond, , Tokondo Hall, Chukondo Hall, Hokuendo Hall, Nan'en-do Hall, Ooyuya Bathhouse, etc.
Kasuga Taisha Shrine:
Contact: 0742-22-7788
Location: 160 Kasugano-cho, Nara City
Highlights: Bronze lanterns within Kasuga Shrine, stone lanterns lining the path leading up to the shrine through the Kasuga-yama Primeval Forest, railings and pillars coated with brilliant vermilion lacquer, verdant Taisha Shrine Jin'en Park, the giant rack of sake barrels near the front gate, fountain-statue of a giant buck, and events throughout the year, etc.
Todaiji Temple:
Contact: 0742-22-5511;
Location: 406-1 Zoshi-cho, Nara-City, in Nara Park;
Highlights: Daibutsu-san (Great Buddha, the largest wooden structure in the world), Daibutsu-den Hall, Kaidan-in (Ordination Hall), Nandai-mon Gate, Shoso-in Shoso (Imperial Repository), Shuro (Belfry), Nigatsudo and Sangatsudo (ritual halls), etc.
Toshodai-ji Temple:
Contact: 0742-33-7900;
Location: 13-46 Gojo-cho , Nara City;
Highlights: Tiles of Tempyo, Kodo (lecture hall), Kondo (Golden Hall), Koro (Drum Tower), Hozo (Treasure Hall), Kyozo (Sutra Hall), Miedo (hall storing the wooden statue of Wajo Ganjin), etc.
Yakushi-ji Temple:
Contact: 0742-33-6001;
Location: 457 Nishino Kyo-machi, Nara City;
Highlights: the headquarters of the Hosso school of Japanese Buddhism, Toto (East Pagoda), West Pagoda, the statue of Yakushi Nyorai, the Healing Buddha, in the Kondo (main hall), Bussoku-do Hall, Toin-do Hall, Lecture Hall, etc.
2.Architecture
Historical Buildings & Ruins:
Former Daijo-in Garden: 1083-1 Takabatake-cho Nara-City (0742-24-0808);
Former Residence of Oyamada Shurei: 155-1 Yagyu-cho,Nara-City (0742-94-0002);
Imanishi-ke Shoin: 24 Fukuchiin-cho,Nara-City (0742-23-2255);
Ishibutai Burial Mound: Asuka Village, Takaichi County (0744-54-4492);
Naramachi Kosi-no-ie: 44 Gangiji-cho,Nara-City (0742-23-4820);
Shiga Naoya Residence: 1237-2 Takabatake-daido-cho,Nara-City (0742-26-6490);
Takamatsu-zuka Burial Mound: 15 min walk from Kintetsu Asuka Station;
Yamato-Koriyama Castle Ruins: Jonai-cho, Yamatokoriyama City (0743-52-2010).
Temples & Shrines:
Akishono-dera Temple: 757 Akishino-cho, Nara-City (0742-45-4600);
Asukadera Temple: 682 Asuka, Asuka-mura, Takaichi-gun, Nara (0744-54-2126);
Byakugo-ji Temple: Nara Park, 392 Byakugoji-cho, Nara-City (0742-26-3392);
Butsuryuji Temple: 1684 Akabane, Haibara-ku, Uda City (0745-82-1301);
Daianji Temple: 2-18-1 Daianji, Nara-City (0742-61-6312);
Denkoji Temple: 24 Ogawa-cho, Nara-City (0742-22-5873);
Enjo-ji Temple: 1273 Nin'nikusen-cho, Nara-City (0742-93-0353);
Enshoji Temple: 1312 Yama-cho, Nara City (0742-27-8478);
Fukuchi-in Temple: Nara Park, 46 Fukuchiin-cho, Nara-City (0742-22-1358);
Futai-ji Temple: 517 Horen-cho, Nara-City (0742-22-5278);
Hannya-ji Temple: 221 Hannyaji-cho, Nara-City (0742-22-6287);
Hase-dera Temple: 731-1 Hatsuse, Sakurai City (07444-7-7001);
Himuro-jinja Shrine: 159 kasugano-cho,Nara-City (0742-23-7297);
Hokiji Temple: 1873 Okamoto, Oaza, Ikaruga-cho, Ikoma-gun, Nara (0745-75-5559);
Hokke-ji Temple: Hokkeji-naka-machi, Nara-City (0742-33-2261);
Hotoku-ji Temple: 445 Yagyu-cho, Nara-City (0742-94-0204);
Isakawa Shrine: Honkomori-cho, Nara-City (0742-22-0832);
Isonokami Jingu Shrine: 384 Furu-cho, Tenri-shi (0743-62-0900);
Jigen-ji Temple: 7 Kitaoji-cho, Nara-City (0742-26-2936);
Junen-ji Temple: 27 Minami-furo-cho, Nara-City (0742-23-2925);
Juri-in Temple: 27 Juriin-cho, Nara-City (0742-26-6635);
Kairyuo-ji Temple: 897 Hokkeji-kita-machi, Nara-City (0742-33-5765);
Kango Shrine (Rin-Shrine): Kangoku-cyo, Nara-City (0742-22-0612);
Kiko-ji Temple: 508 Sugahara-Cho, Nara-City (0742-45-4630);
Konbu-in Monastery: 881 Horen-cho, Nara-City (0742-22-2890);
Konin-ji Temple: 46 Kokuzo-cho, Nara-City (0742-62-9303);
Korin-ji Temple: 32 Inoue-cho, Nara-City (0742-22-0678);
Mimatsuji Temple: 1-26-10 Shichijo, Nara City, 15 min walk from Kintetsu Kujo Station;
Nanmyo-ji Temple: 1005 Sakahara-cho, Nara-City (0742-71-0805);
Nara Zuhiko Shrine: 2489 Narazaka-cho, Nara-City (0742-23-1025);
Niu Shrine: Niu-cho, Nara-City (0742-94-0287);
Obitoke-dera Temple: 734 Imaichi-cho, Nara-City (0742-61-3861);
Onodera Temple: 1680 Ono, Muro-ku, Uda City (0745-92-2220);
Omiwa Jinja Shrine: Omiwa-Jinja, Miwa, Sakurai-shi (0744-42-6633);
Ryosen-ji Temple: 3879 Naka-machi, Nara-City (0742-45-0081);
Saidaiji Temple: 1-1-5 Saidaiji Choba-machi, Nara-City (0742-45-4700);
Sansho-ji Temple: 1-26-10 Shichijo, Nara-City (0742-44-3333);
Shin-Yakushiji Temple: Nara Park, 1352 Fukui-cho, Takahata, Nara City (0742-22-3736);
Shomyo-ji Temple: 7 Shobuike-cho, Nara-City (0742-23-4438);
Shonen-ji Temple: 49 Higashi-kitsuji-cho, Nara-City (0742-22-4282);
Shoryaku-ji Temple: 157 Bodaisen-cho, Nara-City (0742-62-9569);
Sugahara Shrine: 518 Sugahara-cho, Nara-City (0742-45-3576);
Tamuke-yama Hachimangu Shrine: 434 Zoshi-cyo,Nara-City (0742-23-4404);
Tanjo-ji Temple: 2 Mitsumune-cho, Nara-City (0742-22-5333);
Tanzan Shrine: 319 Tonomine, Sakurai City (0744-49-0001);
Tokuyu-ji Temple: 25 Narukawa-cho, Nara-City (0742-22-3881)
Tomi Shrine: 648,Ishiki-cho, Nara-City (0742-45-3965);
Yuga Shrine: 1059 Kitatenma-Cho, Nara-City (0742-27-0883);
3.Art Galleries & Museums
Asuka Historical Museum: 601, Okuyama, Asuka Village, Takaichi County (0744-54-3561);
Kashiba City Nijosan Museum: 1-17-17, Fujiyama, Kashiba City (0745-77-1700);
Kashihara City Insectarium: 624, Nanzan-cho, Kashihara City (0744-24-7246);
Kita Modern Art Museum: 730, Kanaya, Sakurai City (0744-45-2849);
Municipal Gojo Cultural Museum: 930-2 Kitayama-cho, Gojo-shi (07472-4-2011)
Nakano Art Museum: 9-946-2, Ayameike-minami, Nara City (0742-48-1167);
Nara Centennial Hall: 7-1, Miyamae-cho, Sanjo, Nara City (0742-34-0100);
Nara City Historical Materials Preservation House: 1-1 Wakido-cyo, Nara-City (0742-27-0169);
Nara City Museum of Photography: 600-1 Takabatake-cho, Nara City (0742-22-9811);
Nara City Silk Road Exp. Memorial Hall: 3-5-15 Minami, Nijooji,Nara-City (0742-33-7157);
Nara Craft Museum: 1-1 Azemame-cho, Nara-City (0742-27-0033);
Naramachi Siryo-kan: 14 Nishinoshinya-cho, Nara-City (0742-22-5509);
Nara National Museum: 50 Noborioji-cho, Nara City (0742-22-7771);
Nara National Research Institute of Cultural Properties: Saki-cho, Nara City (0742-34-3931);
Nara Park Museum: 469 Zoshi-cho, Nara-City (0742-22-0375);
Nara Prefecture Complex of Man'yo Culture: Asuka Village, Takaichi County (0744-54-1850);
Nara Prefectural Museum (Kashihara Archaeological Institute): 50-2 Unebi-cho, Kashihara City;
Nara Prefectural Museum of Art: 10-6 Noborioji-cho, Nara City (0742-23-3968);
Nara Prefectural Museum of Folk Culture: 545 Yata-cho, Yamato Koriyama-shi (0743-53-3171);
Shouhaku Art Museum: 2-1-4, Tomigaoka, Nara City (0742-41-6666);
Sugawara Clay Image Kiln Park: 403-2 Yokoryo-cho, Nara-City (0742-34-1111);
Sugioka Kason Calligraphy Museum: 3 Wakido-cho, Nara-City (0742-24-4111);
Tenri Sankokan Museum: Tenri University, 1 Soma no uchi, Tenri City (0743-63-1515);
The Museum Yamato Bunkakan: 1-11-6 Gakuen, Minami-Nara City (0742-45-0544);
Toki-no-shiryo-kan: 28 Nishinoshinya-cho, Nara-City (0742-26-5187).
4.Parks, Gardens & Natural Getaways
Byobuiwa Park: Nagano, Soni-mura, Uda-gun (0745-94-2101);
Isui-en Garden: 74 Mima-cho,Nara-City (0742-25-0781);
Joka Center Park: Nukatabe Minami-cho, Yamato Koriyama-shi (0743-59-0036);
Katsuragi Kogen Highlands: Gose City, Nara Prefecture (07456-2-3001, Gose City tourist dept);
Kinki Long Distance Nature Trail: Runs through the Yamato Mts that separates Osaka and Nara;
Manyo Botanical Garden (Kasuga Taisha Garden): 160 Kasugano-cho,Nara-city (0742-22-7788);
Mt. Ikoma-san: NW of Nara, between Nara & Osaka, part of Kongo-Ikoma Quasi-National Park;
Mt. Katsuragi: Kujira, Gose City, Nara Prefecture, known for the Katsuragi Ropeway;
Mt. Shigi-san: northwest of Nara, home to Chogosonshi-ji Temple, where the symbol is the tiger;
Mt. Yoshino: known as the best cherry blossom viewing spot in Japan,with 30,000 cherry trees;
Nara Park: Wakakusayama Hill, Todaiji Temple, Kasuga Shrine, Nara National Museum, etc.
Obuchi Pond Park: Nishi Nakayama-cho, Nara-shi (0742-47-0700);
Sannoko Natural Forest: Ooaza Kaminotani, Kawakamimura, Yoshinogun (07465-2-0111);
Shibasaki Riverside Park: Taki-cho, Gojo City (07472-2-4001);
Takidani Japanese Iris Garden: 348 Takidani, Muro-ku, Uda City (0745-92-3187);
Yagyu-no-sato Iris Garden: 403 Yagyu-cho, Nara-city (0742-94-0400);
Yoshiki-en Garden: 59-4 Noborioji-cho, Nara-city (0742-22-5911).
5.Entertainment & Recreation
Hot Springs:
Asuka no Yu: 10min walk from JR Unebi Sta, 15min walk from Miminashi Sta on Kintetsu Line;
Dorogawa Hot Springs: Dorogawa, Tenkawamura, Yoshino-gun;
Kamiyu Hot Springs: Musashi/Obara, Totsukawa-mura, Yoshino-gun
Hasedera Hot Springs: in front of the Hasedera Temple, in Sakurai City;
Horai Hot Spring: Nara Park Hotel, 4-18-1, Hourai, Nara-shi (0742-44-5255);
Kamikitayama Hot Springs: Kawai, Kamikitayama-mura, Yoshino-gun;
Shigisan Hot Springs: Shigisan Kanko Hotel, 2-40,Shigisannishi,Sangou-cho,Ikoma-gun;
Shimokitayama Hot Springs: Ikehara, Shimokitayama-mura, Yoshino-gun;
Shionoha Hot Springs: Shionoha, Kawakami-mura, Yoshino-gun;
Totsugawa Hot Springs: Hiradani, Totsukawa-mura, Yoshino-gun;
Tousenji Hot Springs: Musashi/Obara, Totsukawa-mura, Yoshino-gun;
Tsukigase Hot Springs: Oyama, Tsukigase-mura, Soekami-gun;
Yoshino Hot Springs: on Mt. Yoshino, about 10 min. by car from Kintetsu Yoshino Station.
Sports:
Dorogawa Ski Area: Dorogawa, Tenkawa-mura, Yoshino-gun (0747-64-0082);
Nara Chuo Budo Gymnasium Annex: 1516 Horen-cho, Nara City (0742-27-6163);
Nara Chuo (Central) Gymnasium: 1516 Horen-cho, Nara City (0742-24-1501);
Nara Konoike Track & Field Stadium: 1530 Horen-cho, Nara City (0742-22-0001);
Nara Nanbu Gymnasium: 5-337-1 Yokoi, Nara City (0742-62-0307);
Nara Nanbu Shogai Sports Center Gym: 467-1 Karamomo-cho, Nara City (0742-61-7029);
Nara Seibu Shogai Sports Center: 4861-1 Nakamachi, Nara City (0742-52-0100);
Wasamatayama Ski Area: Nishihara, Kamikitayama-mura, Yoshino-gun (07468-3-0027);
Yamazoe-mura B & G Marine Center: 59-1 Ooaza Kiriyama, Yamazoe-mura, Yamabe-gun.
Shopping:
What to buy: Carved wooden dolls (Nara Ningyo); Ceramics (Akahada-yaki); Cloth (Nara Sarashi); Fans (Nara Uchiwa); India ink (Nara Sumi); Lacquerware (Nara Shikki); Mask (Koraku Men), Tsunozaiku Crafts and Writing Brushes (Nara Fude), etc.
Where to buy: Higashimuki Shopping Arcade, Mochiidono Shopping Street, Sanjo-dori Avenue, Nara Family Shopping Mall (3min walk from Yamato-Saidaiji station), etc.
Gango-ji Temple:
Contact: 0742-23-1377;
Location: 11 Chuincho, Nara City;
Highlights: the mandala which Priest Chiko painted, its ancient tiles dating back to the Asuka era, which are used on roofs of Zenshitsu (Buddhist priests' living quarter), as well as of the Gokurakubo Hondo (main hall), the Stone Buddha images, the miniature Five-story Pagoda, etc.
Heijo Palace Site:
Contact: 0742-34-3931;
Location: in the northern part of Nara, 20 min walk from Kintetsu Saidaiji Station;
Highlights: Chodo-in (formal ceremony venue), Daigoku-den (Great Hall of State, where decrees were issued and national affairs were conducted), Dairi (the Emperor¡¯s residence), Suzaku-Mon Gate (formal gate to the Heijo Palace), To-in (government offices), To-in Garden (site of aristocrats' banquets and ceremonies), Excavation Site Exhibition Hall & Nara Palace Site Museum, etc.
Horyu-ji Temple:
Contact: 0745-75-2555;
Location: 1-1 Horyuji Sannai, Ikaruga-cho, Ikoma-gun;
Hightlights: Kondo (Golden Hall, holds fifty walls of murals and the Shaka Triad, bronze Yakushi and Amida Nyorai statues, Kudara Kannon and other national treasures), the Five-story Pagoda, Yumedono Hall (Hall of Dreams, houses the Yumedono (Guze) Kannon), Chumon (Inner Gate, with its entasis columns and distinct brackets and railings), etc.
Kasuga-yama Hill Primeval Forest:
Contact: 0742-22-0375;
Location: Kasuganocho, on Kasuga-yama hill, to the east of Kasuga Taisha Shrine;
Highlights: an natural area retains its primitive character such as the free-roaming deer and glossy-leafed forest, and its sacred status as the sanctuary of a major Shinto deity enshrined in the Kasuga Taisha Shrine.
Kofuku-ji Temple:
Contact: 0742-22-7755;
Location: 48 Noborioji-machi, Nara City;
Highlights: Kokuhokan (Kofukuji National Treasure House), Gojunoto (Five-storied Pagoda), Sanjunoto (Three-storied Pagoda), Sarusawa-no-ike pond, , Tokondo Hall, Chukondo Hall, Hokuendo Hall, Nan'en-do Hall, Ooyuya Bathhouse, etc.
Kasuga Taisha Shrine:
Contact: 0742-22-7788
Location: 160 Kasugano-cho, Nara City
Highlights: Bronze lanterns within Kasuga Shrine, stone lanterns lining the path leading up to the shrine through the Kasuga-yama Primeval Forest, railings and pillars coated with brilliant vermilion lacquer, verdant Taisha Shrine Jin'en Park, the giant rack of sake barrels near the front gate, fountain-statue of a giant buck, and events throughout the year, etc.
Todaiji Temple:
Contact: 0742-22-5511;
Location: 406-1 Zoshi-cho, Nara-City, in Nara Park;
Highlights: Daibutsu-san (Great Buddha, the largest wooden structure in the world), Daibutsu-den Hall, Kaidan-in (Ordination Hall), Nandai-mon Gate, Shoso-in Shoso (Imperial Repository), Shuro (Belfry), Nigatsudo and Sangatsudo (ritual halls), etc.
Toshodai-ji Temple:
Contact: 0742-33-7900;
Location: 13-46 Gojo-cho , Nara City;
Highlights: Tiles of Tempyo, Kodo (lecture hall), Kondo (Golden Hall), Koro (Drum Tower), Hozo (Treasure Hall), Kyozo (Sutra Hall), Miedo (hall storing the wooden statue of Wajo Ganjin), etc.
Yakushi-ji Temple:
Contact: 0742-33-6001;
Location: 457 Nishino Kyo-machi, Nara City;
Highlights: the headquarters of the Hosso school of Japanese Buddhism, Toto (East Pagoda), West Pagoda, the statue of Yakushi Nyorai, the Healing Buddha, in the Kondo (main hall), Bussoku-do Hall, Toin-do Hall, Lecture Hall, etc.
2.Architecture
Historical Buildings & Ruins:
Former Daijo-in Garden: 1083-1 Takabatake-cho Nara-City (0742-24-0808);
Former Residence of Oyamada Shurei: 155-1 Yagyu-cho,Nara-City (0742-94-0002);
Imanishi-ke Shoin: 24 Fukuchiin-cho,Nara-City (0742-23-2255);
Ishibutai Burial Mound: Asuka Village, Takaichi County (0744-54-4492);
Naramachi Kosi-no-ie: 44 Gangiji-cho,Nara-City (0742-23-4820);
Shiga Naoya Residence: 1237-2 Takabatake-daido-cho,Nara-City (0742-26-6490);
Takamatsu-zuka Burial Mound: 15 min walk from Kintetsu Asuka Station;
Yamato-Koriyama Castle Ruins: Jonai-cho, Yamatokoriyama City (0743-52-2010).
Temples & Shrines:
Akishono-dera Temple: 757 Akishino-cho, Nara-City (0742-45-4600);
Asukadera Temple: 682 Asuka, Asuka-mura, Takaichi-gun, Nara (0744-54-2126);
Byakugo-ji Temple: Nara Park, 392 Byakugoji-cho, Nara-City (0742-26-3392);
Butsuryuji Temple: 1684 Akabane, Haibara-ku, Uda City (0745-82-1301);
Daianji Temple: 2-18-1 Daianji, Nara-City (0742-61-6312);
Denkoji Temple: 24 Ogawa-cho, Nara-City (0742-22-5873);
Enjo-ji Temple: 1273 Nin'nikusen-cho, Nara-City (0742-93-0353);
Enshoji Temple: 1312 Yama-cho, Nara City (0742-27-8478);
Fukuchi-in Temple: Nara Park, 46 Fukuchiin-cho, Nara-City (0742-22-1358);
Futai-ji Temple: 517 Horen-cho, Nara-City (0742-22-5278);
Hannya-ji Temple: 221 Hannyaji-cho, Nara-City (0742-22-6287);
Hase-dera Temple: 731-1 Hatsuse, Sakurai City (07444-7-7001);
Himuro-jinja Shrine: 159 kasugano-cho,Nara-City (0742-23-7297);
Hokiji Temple: 1873 Okamoto, Oaza, Ikaruga-cho, Ikoma-gun, Nara (0745-75-5559);
Hokke-ji Temple: Hokkeji-naka-machi, Nara-City (0742-33-2261);
Hotoku-ji Temple: 445 Yagyu-cho, Nara-City (0742-94-0204);
Isakawa Shrine: Honkomori-cho, Nara-City (0742-22-0832);
Isonokami Jingu Shrine: 384 Furu-cho, Tenri-shi (0743-62-0900);
Jigen-ji Temple: 7 Kitaoji-cho, Nara-City (0742-26-2936);
Junen-ji Temple: 27 Minami-furo-cho, Nara-City (0742-23-2925);
Juri-in Temple: 27 Juriin-cho, Nara-City (0742-26-6635);
Kairyuo-ji Temple: 897 Hokkeji-kita-machi, Nara-City (0742-33-5765);
Kango Shrine (Rin-Shrine): Kangoku-cyo, Nara-City (0742-22-0612);
Kiko-ji Temple: 508 Sugahara-Cho, Nara-City (0742-45-4630);
Konbu-in Monastery: 881 Horen-cho, Nara-City (0742-22-2890);
Konin-ji Temple: 46 Kokuzo-cho, Nara-City (0742-62-9303);
Korin-ji Temple: 32 Inoue-cho, Nara-City (0742-22-0678);
Mimatsuji Temple: 1-26-10 Shichijo, Nara City, 15 min walk from Kintetsu Kujo Station;
Nanmyo-ji Temple: 1005 Sakahara-cho, Nara-City (0742-71-0805);
Nara Zuhiko Shrine: 2489 Narazaka-cho, Nara-City (0742-23-1025);
Niu Shrine: Niu-cho, Nara-City (0742-94-0287);
Obitoke-dera Temple: 734 Imaichi-cho, Nara-City (0742-61-3861);
Onodera Temple: 1680 Ono, Muro-ku, Uda City (0745-92-2220);
Omiwa Jinja Shrine: Omiwa-Jinja, Miwa, Sakurai-shi (0744-42-6633);
Ryosen-ji Temple: 3879 Naka-machi, Nara-City (0742-45-0081);
Saidaiji Temple: 1-1-5 Saidaiji Choba-machi, Nara-City (0742-45-4700);
Sansho-ji Temple: 1-26-10 Shichijo, Nara-City (0742-44-3333);
Shin-Yakushiji Temple: Nara Park, 1352 Fukui-cho, Takahata, Nara City (0742-22-3736);
Shomyo-ji Temple: 7 Shobuike-cho, Nara-City (0742-23-4438);
Shonen-ji Temple: 49 Higashi-kitsuji-cho, Nara-City (0742-22-4282);
Shoryaku-ji Temple: 157 Bodaisen-cho, Nara-City (0742-62-9569);
Sugahara Shrine: 518 Sugahara-cho, Nara-City (0742-45-3576);
Tamuke-yama Hachimangu Shrine: 434 Zoshi-cyo,Nara-City (0742-23-4404);
Tanjo-ji Temple: 2 Mitsumune-cho, Nara-City (0742-22-5333);
Tanzan Shrine: 319 Tonomine, Sakurai City (0744-49-0001);
Tokuyu-ji Temple: 25 Narukawa-cho, Nara-City (0742-22-3881)
Tomi Shrine: 648,Ishiki-cho, Nara-City (0742-45-3965);
Yuga Shrine: 1059 Kitatenma-Cho, Nara-City (0742-27-0883);
3.Art Galleries & Museums
Asuka Historical Museum: 601, Okuyama, Asuka Village, Takaichi County (0744-54-3561);
Kashiba City Nijosan Museum: 1-17-17, Fujiyama, Kashiba City (0745-77-1700);
Kashihara City Insectarium: 624, Nanzan-cho, Kashihara City (0744-24-7246);
Kita Modern Art Museum: 730, Kanaya, Sakurai City (0744-45-2849);
Municipal Gojo Cultural Museum: 930-2 Kitayama-cho, Gojo-shi (07472-4-2011)
Nakano Art Museum: 9-946-2, Ayameike-minami, Nara City (0742-48-1167);
Nara Centennial Hall: 7-1, Miyamae-cho, Sanjo, Nara City (0742-34-0100);
Nara City Historical Materials Preservation House: 1-1 Wakido-cyo, Nara-City (0742-27-0169);
Nara City Museum of Photography: 600-1 Takabatake-cho, Nara City (0742-22-9811);
Nara City Silk Road Exp. Memorial Hall: 3-5-15 Minami, Nijooji,Nara-City (0742-33-7157);
Nara Craft Museum: 1-1 Azemame-cho, Nara-City (0742-27-0033);
Naramachi Siryo-kan: 14 Nishinoshinya-cho, Nara-City (0742-22-5509);
Nara National Museum: 50 Noborioji-cho, Nara City (0742-22-7771);
Nara National Research Institute of Cultural Properties: Saki-cho, Nara City (0742-34-3931);
Nara Park Museum: 469 Zoshi-cho, Nara-City (0742-22-0375);
Nara Prefecture Complex of Man'yo Culture: Asuka Village, Takaichi County (0744-54-1850);
Nara Prefectural Museum (Kashihara Archaeological Institute): 50-2 Unebi-cho, Kashihara City;
Nara Prefectural Museum of Art: 10-6 Noborioji-cho, Nara City (0742-23-3968);
Nara Prefectural Museum of Folk Culture: 545 Yata-cho, Yamato Koriyama-shi (0743-53-3171);
Shouhaku Art Museum: 2-1-4, Tomigaoka, Nara City (0742-41-6666);
Sugawara Clay Image Kiln Park: 403-2 Yokoryo-cho, Nara-City (0742-34-1111);
Sugioka Kason Calligraphy Museum: 3 Wakido-cho, Nara-City (0742-24-4111);
Tenri Sankokan Museum: Tenri University, 1 Soma no uchi, Tenri City (0743-63-1515);
The Museum Yamato Bunkakan: 1-11-6 Gakuen, Minami-Nara City (0742-45-0544);
Toki-no-shiryo-kan: 28 Nishinoshinya-cho, Nara-City (0742-26-5187).
4.Parks, Gardens & Natural Getaways
Byobuiwa Park: Nagano, Soni-mura, Uda-gun (0745-94-2101);
Isui-en Garden: 74 Mima-cho,Nara-City (0742-25-0781);
Joka Center Park: Nukatabe Minami-cho, Yamato Koriyama-shi (0743-59-0036);
Katsuragi Kogen Highlands: Gose City, Nara Prefecture (07456-2-3001, Gose City tourist dept);
Kinki Long Distance Nature Trail: Runs through the Yamato Mts that separates Osaka and Nara;
Manyo Botanical Garden (Kasuga Taisha Garden): 160 Kasugano-cho,Nara-city (0742-22-7788);
Mt. Ikoma-san: NW of Nara, between Nara & Osaka, part of Kongo-Ikoma Quasi-National Park;
Mt. Katsuragi: Kujira, Gose City, Nara Prefecture, known for the Katsuragi Ropeway;
Mt. Shigi-san: northwest of Nara, home to Chogosonshi-ji Temple, where the symbol is the tiger;
Mt. Yoshino: known as the best cherry blossom viewing spot in Japan,with 30,000 cherry trees;
Nara Park: Wakakusayama Hill, Todaiji Temple, Kasuga Shrine, Nara National Museum, etc.
Obuchi Pond Park: Nishi Nakayama-cho, Nara-shi (0742-47-0700);
Sannoko Natural Forest: Ooaza Kaminotani, Kawakamimura, Yoshinogun (07465-2-0111);
Shibasaki Riverside Park: Taki-cho, Gojo City (07472-2-4001);
Takidani Japanese Iris Garden: 348 Takidani, Muro-ku, Uda City (0745-92-3187);
Yagyu-no-sato Iris Garden: 403 Yagyu-cho, Nara-city (0742-94-0400);
Yoshiki-en Garden: 59-4 Noborioji-cho, Nara-city (0742-22-5911).
5.Entertainment & Recreation
Hot Springs:
Asuka no Yu: 10min walk from JR Unebi Sta, 15min walk from Miminashi Sta on Kintetsu Line;
Dorogawa Hot Springs: Dorogawa, Tenkawamura, Yoshino-gun;
Kamiyu Hot Springs: Musashi/Obara, Totsukawa-mura, Yoshino-gun
Hasedera Hot Springs: in front of the Hasedera Temple, in Sakurai City;
Horai Hot Spring: Nara Park Hotel, 4-18-1, Hourai, Nara-shi (0742-44-5255);
Kamikitayama Hot Springs: Kawai, Kamikitayama-mura, Yoshino-gun;
Shigisan Hot Springs: Shigisan Kanko Hotel, 2-40,Shigisannishi,Sangou-cho,Ikoma-gun;
Shimokitayama Hot Springs: Ikehara, Shimokitayama-mura, Yoshino-gun;
Shionoha Hot Springs: Shionoha, Kawakami-mura, Yoshino-gun;
Totsugawa Hot Springs: Hiradani, Totsukawa-mura, Yoshino-gun;
Tousenji Hot Springs: Musashi/Obara, Totsukawa-mura, Yoshino-gun;
Tsukigase Hot Springs: Oyama, Tsukigase-mura, Soekami-gun;
Yoshino Hot Springs: on Mt. Yoshino, about 10 min. by car from Kintetsu Yoshino Station.
Sports:
Dorogawa Ski Area: Dorogawa, Tenkawa-mura, Yoshino-gun (0747-64-0082);
Nara Chuo Budo Gymnasium Annex: 1516 Horen-cho, Nara City (0742-27-6163);
Nara Chuo (Central) Gymnasium: 1516 Horen-cho, Nara City (0742-24-1501);
Nara Konoike Track & Field Stadium: 1530 Horen-cho, Nara City (0742-22-0001);
Nara Nanbu Gymnasium: 5-337-1 Yokoi, Nara City (0742-62-0307);
Nara Nanbu Shogai Sports Center Gym: 467-1 Karamomo-cho, Nara City (0742-61-7029);
Nara Seibu Shogai Sports Center: 4861-1 Nakamachi, Nara City (0742-52-0100);
Wasamatayama Ski Area: Nishihara, Kamikitayama-mura, Yoshino-gun (07468-3-0027);
Yamazoe-mura B & G Marine Center: 59-1 Ooaza Kiriyama, Yamazoe-mura, Yamabe-gun.
Shopping:
What to buy: Carved wooden dolls (Nara Ningyo); Ceramics (Akahada-yaki); Cloth (Nara Sarashi); Fans (Nara Uchiwa); India ink (Nara Sumi); Lacquerware (Nara Shikki); Mask (Koraku Men), Tsunozaiku Crafts and Writing Brushes (Nara Fude), etc.
Where to buy: Higashimuki Shopping Arcade, Mochiidono Shopping Street, Sanjo-dori Avenue, Nara Family Shopping Mall (3min walk from Yamato-Saidaiji station), etc.
Unlike the rest of the Kansai Region, Nara Prefecture is landlocked in its entirety.
No wonder the area holds a creditable claim to be the country's hottest prefecture, where heavy rainfall and h... More>>>
No wonder the area holds a creditable claim to be the country's hottest prefecture, where heavy rainfall and h... More>>>
Unlike the rest of the Kansai Region, Nara Prefecture is landlocked in its entirety.
No wonder the area holds a creditable claim to be the country's hottest prefecture, where heavy rainfall and high temperature are observed at the height of summer, snow is a rarity in winter, except some nice accumulation in the southern mountains, and the temperate and beautiful shoulder seasons of spring and autumn which are respectively tinted with pastel pink of cherry blossoms and nature's pyrotechnic displays of fall foliage.
While the overall climate pattern of the region is generally warmer than that of the Wakayama prefecture and Osaka prefecture to its west, Kyoto prefecture and Aichi prefecture on the north, and the Mie prefecture in the south, there are distinct climatic differences within the prefecture that are very much worthy of the attention of those of you who are coming in town for some serious exploration into the spendor of mother nature and the glory of Nara's history and culture.
The north-western basin area of the prefecture, including Nara city itself, are bounded by some of Kansai's tallest mountains which separate Nara from Osaka and spread across the rest of the prefecture, creating a much palpable temperature variance range, either within the same day, between summer and winter extremities, or between the inland basin area and the mountainous southern part.
So while you're wholeheartedly devoting yourself to communing with the ancestors, deities or nature, take care not to catch common ailments caused by such temperature differences, or to be caught in unexpected weather conditions.
Those of the time-pressed tourists who would rather omit Nara from your Kinki region itinerary or cut it short into a day trip from Kyoto or Osaka, fear not, Nara city is quite shady to shelter you from much of the weather discomfort, especially in summer.
Just feel free to put on what you usually wear during your daytime sightseeing in Kyoto or Osaka, like loose-fitting short sleeve T-shirts, shorts and rain gear, plus a light jacket for the air-conditioned indoors, during summer, warm overcoats, hats and gloves for winter outings, jeans, long-sleeve shirts, and light jackets for cherry blossom viewing in spring and changing leaves viewing in autumn.
But do remember to wear a pair of good walking shoes or sports shoes, as you're undoubtedly doing quite a lot of walking in Nara Park and its outskirts around Central Nara alone, not to mention some of the UNESCO World Heritage Site listed attractions in the outlying districts.
No wonder the area holds a creditable claim to be the country's hottest prefecture, where heavy rainfall and high temperature are observed at the height of summer, snow is a rarity in winter, except some nice accumulation in the southern mountains, and the temperate and beautiful shoulder seasons of spring and autumn which are respectively tinted with pastel pink of cherry blossoms and nature's pyrotechnic displays of fall foliage.
While the overall climate pattern of the region is generally warmer than that of the Wakayama prefecture and Osaka prefecture to its west, Kyoto prefecture and Aichi prefecture on the north, and the Mie prefecture in the south, there are distinct climatic differences within the prefecture that are very much worthy of the attention of those of you who are coming in town for some serious exploration into the spendor of mother nature and the glory of Nara's history and culture.
The north-western basin area of the prefecture, including Nara city itself, are bounded by some of Kansai's tallest mountains which separate Nara from Osaka and spread across the rest of the prefecture, creating a much palpable temperature variance range, either within the same day, between summer and winter extremities, or between the inland basin area and the mountainous southern part.
So while you're wholeheartedly devoting yourself to communing with the ancestors, deities or nature, take care not to catch common ailments caused by such temperature differences, or to be caught in unexpected weather conditions.
Those of the time-pressed tourists who would rather omit Nara from your Kinki region itinerary or cut it short into a day trip from Kyoto or Osaka, fear not, Nara city is quite shady to shelter you from much of the weather discomfort, especially in summer.
Just feel free to put on what you usually wear during your daytime sightseeing in Kyoto or Osaka, like loose-fitting short sleeve T-shirts, shorts and rain gear, plus a light jacket for the air-conditioned indoors, during summer, warm overcoats, hats and gloves for winter outings, jeans, long-sleeve shirts, and light jackets for cherry blossom viewing in spring and changing leaves viewing in autumn.
But do remember to wear a pair of good walking shoes or sports shoes, as you're undoubtedly doing quite a lot of walking in Nara Park and its outskirts around Central Nara alone, not to mention some of the UNESCO World Heritage Site listed attractions in the outlying districts.
1.What to eat
Local Specialties:
Kakinoha-Zushi: sushi (mackerel and/or salmon) wrapped in persimmon leaves;
Narazuke Pickles: pickled shirouri (cucurbitaceous fruit) using sakekas... More>>>
Local Specialties:
Kakinoha-Zushi: sushi (mackerel and/or salmon) wrapped in persimmon leaves;
Narazuke Pickles: pickled shirouri (cucurbitaceous fruit) using sakekas... More>>>
1.What to eat
Local Specialties:
Kakinoha-Zushi: sushi (mackerel and/or salmon) wrapped in persimmon leaves;
Narazuke Pickles: pickled shirouri (cucurbitaceous fruit) using sakekasu (sake sediment);
Kuzu Ryori: starch made from Kuzu (legume vegetable) and used in kuzu noodles/ wagashi;
Asuka Nabe: Vegetables&chicken cooked in a broth of milk, soy bean paste and chicken;
Chagayu: rice porridge made of rice, water and tea, and used in Chagayu Kaiseki or Bento;
Somen: thin wheat noodles usually cooked, cooled and served with soup called somen tsuyu;
Kansai Dishes:
Bamboo Shoot (takenoko) Dish: grilled/ spicy boiled, or used in sashimi, takenoko rice, etc;
Botan nabe: sliced boar meat boiled with white leek, tofu, mushroom, radish, burdock, etc;
Crab Dish: crab sashimi, baked crab, crab nabe, etc;
Eel Dish: eaten grilled or boiled, or used in sushi, fish paste or hot pot, etc.
Pheasant Dish: pheasant sashimi, chopped pheasant, pheasant rice, nabe, suki, barbecue, etc;
Kaiseki: plain dishes using seasonal ingredients, strong in original flavor, free of strong spices;
Kitsune Udon: Noodles with fried tofu skin;
Kobe beef: world-famous selective Tajima beef used in plate grilling, steaks, shabu-shabu, etc;
Kushiage: Battered and deep-fried meat, vegetables, cheese, etc on skewers;
Okonomiyaki: Japanese pancake with finely sliced meat or seafood, shredded cabbage, etc;
Shojin Cuisine: Buddhist dishes using vegetables of the season, vegetable oil, miso, tofu etc.
Japanese Delicacies:
Bento: packed traditional Japanese meals in boxes;
Ramen: Japanese noodles cooked in a stock with flavors unique to each locale;
Soba/ Udon: Noodles made from buckwheat, served hot in soup or cold with a dipping sauce;
Sukiyaki/Shabu-Shabu: fine beef & vegetables boiled/quick cooked at your table on an iron pan;
Sushi: sliced raw fish &other ingredients placed on top of vinegared rice, eaten with soy sauce;
Tempura: Seafood and vegetables deep-fried in a batter made from flour and egg;
Yakitori: skewered chicken grilled on an open flame and eaten with special sauces and salts;
2.Where to eat
Japanese:
Banka: 4-18-1 Horai-cho, Nara City (0742-44-5255);
Edosan: 1167 Takebatake-cho, Nara City (0742-26-2662);
Harishin: 15 Nakashinya-cho, Nara City (0742/22-2669);
Hiraso: 30-1 Imamikadocho, Nara City (0742-22-3900);
Isuien Sanshyu: 74 Suimoncho, Nara City (0742/22-2173);
Kappo Tokichi: 594 Sanjooji, Nara City (0742-35-0555);
Kusanoe: 151 Rokujo-cho, Nara City (0742-33-3017);
Mimiu Nara Sogo: 1-3-1 Nijoojiminami, Nara City (0742-36-3428);
Miyama: 11 Kasugano-cho, Nara City (0742-23-0218);
Mizutani-chaya: At the foot of Wakakusa-yama Hill (0742-22-0627);
Nakaya Dou: 29 Hasimoto-cho, Nara City (0742-23-0141);
Nara Shoya: Keiwa building B1F, 48-5 Takama-cho, Nara City (0742-24-2151);
Okaru: Higashimuki Shopping Street Arcade 13 Higashimuki-Minamimachi (0742-24-3686);
Okonomi Tarou: 29-4, Nishi-Mikado-cho, Nara-shi, (0742-24-3983);
Sakura: 15 Hashimoto-cho, Nara City (0742-22-2310);
Tenpura Asuka: 11-1 Shonami-cho, Nara City (0742-26-4308);
To-no-chaya: 47 Noboriojicho, Nara City (0742-22-4348);
Tsukihitei: 158 Kasuganocho, Nara City (0742-26-2021);
Udon-tei: Higashimuki Shopping Street Arcade, 6 Higashimuki-Nakamachi (0742-23-5471);
Uma no Me: 1158 Takabatakecho, Nara City (0742-23-7784);
Yanagi-ja-ya: 48 Teraojicho, Nara City (0742-22-7560);
Yakiniku Kofujin: Raffine-toyo 5F, 8-1, Konishi-cho, Nara-shi (0742-24-5665);
Yamazakiya: 5 Higashi-muki Dori, Minami-machicho, Nara City (0742-27-3715);
Yanagi-jaya: 48Teraojicho, Nara City (0742-22-7560);
Yatagarasu: 13-1 Hayashi-koji-cho, Nara City (0742-20-0808);
Other:
Eiraku (Fusion): 488 Zoshi-cho, Nara City (0742-26-2211);
Kikusui (Fusion):1130 Takebatake-cho, Nara City (0742-23-2001);
Ichiban (Steak House): 5-2-7 Tomigaoka, Nara City (0742-48-8100);
TRATTORIA Piano (Italian): 15-1, Hashimoto-cho, Nara-shi (0742-26-1837).
Local Specialties:
Kakinoha-Zushi: sushi (mackerel and/or salmon) wrapped in persimmon leaves;
Narazuke Pickles: pickled shirouri (cucurbitaceous fruit) using sakekasu (sake sediment);
Kuzu Ryori: starch made from Kuzu (legume vegetable) and used in kuzu noodles/ wagashi;
Asuka Nabe: Vegetables&chicken cooked in a broth of milk, soy bean paste and chicken;
Chagayu: rice porridge made of rice, water and tea, and used in Chagayu Kaiseki or Bento;
Somen: thin wheat noodles usually cooked, cooled and served with soup called somen tsuyu;
Kansai Dishes:
Bamboo Shoot (takenoko) Dish: grilled/ spicy boiled, or used in sashimi, takenoko rice, etc;
Botan nabe: sliced boar meat boiled with white leek, tofu, mushroom, radish, burdock, etc;
Crab Dish: crab sashimi, baked crab, crab nabe, etc;
Eel Dish: eaten grilled or boiled, or used in sushi, fish paste or hot pot, etc.
Pheasant Dish: pheasant sashimi, chopped pheasant, pheasant rice, nabe, suki, barbecue, etc;
Kaiseki: plain dishes using seasonal ingredients, strong in original flavor, free of strong spices;
Kitsune Udon: Noodles with fried tofu skin;
Kobe beef: world-famous selective Tajima beef used in plate grilling, steaks, shabu-shabu, etc;
Kushiage: Battered and deep-fried meat, vegetables, cheese, etc on skewers;
Okonomiyaki: Japanese pancake with finely sliced meat or seafood, shredded cabbage, etc;
Shojin Cuisine: Buddhist dishes using vegetables of the season, vegetable oil, miso, tofu etc.
Japanese Delicacies:
Bento: packed traditional Japanese meals in boxes;
Ramen: Japanese noodles cooked in a stock with flavors unique to each locale;
Soba/ Udon: Noodles made from buckwheat, served hot in soup or cold with a dipping sauce;
Sukiyaki/Shabu-Shabu: fine beef & vegetables boiled/quick cooked at your table on an iron pan;
Sushi: sliced raw fish &other ingredients placed on top of vinegared rice, eaten with soy sauce;
Tempura: Seafood and vegetables deep-fried in a batter made from flour and egg;
Yakitori: skewered chicken grilled on an open flame and eaten with special sauces and salts;
2.Where to eat
Japanese:
Banka: 4-18-1 Horai-cho, Nara City (0742-44-5255);
Edosan: 1167 Takebatake-cho, Nara City (0742-26-2662);
Harishin: 15 Nakashinya-cho, Nara City (0742/22-2669);
Hiraso: 30-1 Imamikadocho, Nara City (0742-22-3900);
Isuien Sanshyu: 74 Suimoncho, Nara City (0742/22-2173);
Kappo Tokichi: 594 Sanjooji, Nara City (0742-35-0555);
Kusanoe: 151 Rokujo-cho, Nara City (0742-33-3017);
Mimiu Nara Sogo: 1-3-1 Nijoojiminami, Nara City (0742-36-3428);
Miyama: 11 Kasugano-cho, Nara City (0742-23-0218);
Mizutani-chaya: At the foot of Wakakusa-yama Hill (0742-22-0627);
Nakaya Dou: 29 Hasimoto-cho, Nara City (0742-23-0141);
Nara Shoya: Keiwa building B1F, 48-5 Takama-cho, Nara City (0742-24-2151);
Okaru: Higashimuki Shopping Street Arcade 13 Higashimuki-Minamimachi (0742-24-3686);
Okonomi Tarou: 29-4, Nishi-Mikado-cho, Nara-shi, (0742-24-3983);
Sakura: 15 Hashimoto-cho, Nara City (0742-22-2310);
Tenpura Asuka: 11-1 Shonami-cho, Nara City (0742-26-4308);
To-no-chaya: 47 Noboriojicho, Nara City (0742-22-4348);
Tsukihitei: 158 Kasuganocho, Nara City (0742-26-2021);
Udon-tei: Higashimuki Shopping Street Arcade, 6 Higashimuki-Nakamachi (0742-23-5471);
Uma no Me: 1158 Takabatakecho, Nara City (0742-23-7784);
Yanagi-ja-ya: 48 Teraojicho, Nara City (0742-22-7560);
Yakiniku Kofujin: Raffine-toyo 5F, 8-1, Konishi-cho, Nara-shi (0742-24-5665);
Yamazakiya: 5 Higashi-muki Dori, Minami-machicho, Nara City (0742-27-3715);
Yanagi-jaya: 48Teraojicho, Nara City (0742-22-7560);
Yatagarasu: 13-1 Hayashi-koji-cho, Nara City (0742-20-0808);
Other:
Eiraku (Fusion): 488 Zoshi-cho, Nara City (0742-26-2211);
Kikusui (Fusion):1130 Takebatake-cho, Nara City (0742-23-2001);
Ichiban (Steak House): 5-2-7 Tomigaoka, Nara City (0742-48-8100);
TRATTORIA Piano (Italian): 15-1, Hashimoto-cho, Nara-shi (0742-26-1837).
1.Guesthouse Yougendo
Tel: +81-(0)745-32-0514
Location: 13-25 Kudo 2 chome Oji Cho Kita Katsuragi Gun, Nara
Built in 1909 using entirely natural materials, constructed without the use of ... More>>>
Tel: +81-(0)745-32-0514
Location: 13-25 Kudo 2 chome Oji Cho Kita Katsuragi Gun, Nara
Built in 1909 using entirely natural materials, constructed without the use of ... More>>>
1.Guesthouse Yougendo
Tel: +81-(0)745-32-0514
Location: 13-25 Kudo 2 chome Oji Cho Kita Katsuragi Gun, Nara
Built in 1909 using entirely natural materials, constructed without the use of nails or metal, located only 1 minute walk from JR Oji station on JR or Kintetsu Line and 15 minutes bicycle or bus ride from the world heritage Horyuji Temple, set in it's own expansive private grounds in the surroundings of an exquisite landscaped garden with an abundance of seasonal flora, and operated by an international couple, who have tried every means to introduce and install services and standards of a modern hotel, like Wi-Fi Internet Access, safe storage for valuables, comprehensive travel and city information, air-conditioner in all guest rooms bath with a jacuzzi, shower, while retaining the feel and familiarity of budget Japanese style travellers inn that's rapidly disappearing from Japan, like wattle and daub walls, tatami mat room with rice straw flooring, paper sliding doors, home cooked breakfast using locally sourced materials, Yukata style pajamas and Jimbei jumper, etc, this Japanese-style guesthouse is definetely in the height of its charm.
2.Hotel Fujita Nara
Tel: +81-(0)742-23-8111
Location: 47-1 Shimosanjo-cho, Nara
With its central location just steps away from the Nara City Tourist Center, a 5-minute walk from the Nara Station on JR or Kintetsu Line, and 10-minute walk from the free-roaming deer, world heritage listed temples, and eye-pleasing greenery and mind-soothing scenery of Nara Park, and its services and facilities of an international standard business hotel such as in-room hair dryer, television, telephone, refrigerator, bath or shower and on-site conference rooms, fax service, coffee shop, bar, a western-style Cerfd'Argent Restaurant with a beautiful garden view, and the Wakakusa Restaurant with traditional Kaiseki Japanese course meals as well as seasonal a la carte menus, Hotel Fujita Nara counts itself among some of the best suited basese in town from which to comfortably and conveniently commune with nature and culture in this ancient city.
3.Hotel Halftime
Tel: +81-(0)742-33-5656
Location: 2-11-1 Shibatsuji-cho, Nara
With flexible versatility, functional amenities and friendly service in free parking, non-smoking rooms, Tohkokuro Chinese Restaurant, La Pause French Cake Shop, English speaking receptionists, meeting/banquet facilities, business corner with Interne acess and fax/photocopying services, safety box and free walking tour of Nara at your request, and most importantly, its its compact but cozy rooms with basics like Air Conditioning, Telephone, TV, Hairdryer, Tea/Coffee Maker, Work Desk, Bath, Shower, and Toilet, and its strategical location only 1 min walk from Shin-Omiya Station and 15 min walk from JR Nara Station, from where getting to Kyoto or Osaka requires only 40 minutes, Hotel Halftime surely is cozy, comfortable, and convenient enough to satisfy the business travelers and leisure tourists from foreign countries.
4.Hotel Nikko Nara
Tel: +81-(0)742-35-8831
Location: 8-1 Sanjo-Hommachi, Nara
Typical of the Nikko Hotels International chain and JAL group hotels, Hotel Nikko Nara has a lot of comfort and conveniences to offer the demanding and weary business and leisure tourists traveling on the road, such as a great deal of discounts and special packages for those sightseeing or conducting business affairs in town or just passing by, superb location only 1 minute walk from JR Nara Station West Exit, and 15 minutes walk from Kintetsu Nara Station, comfortable accommodations with heaps of modern amenities and style, plus extra privacy and space, functional rooms to host your next social event, business conferences, banquets, receptions, or weddings, and first-class food and beverage facilities specializing in a wide variety of dining and drinking options, including American, Japanese, Chinese food, teppanyaki grill, tea, etc.
5.Kikusuiro
Tel: +81-(0)742-23-2001
Location: 1130 Takabatake-cho, Nara
An examplary Japanese-style ryokan done in a deluxe ornamental way, with Ara-ike Pond facing traditional style rooms which are decked out with an extravaganza of authentic antiques and precious scrolls, 2 restaurants capable of dishing out both Western and Japanese cuisine, banquet hall, conference room, coffee shop, kiosk, as well as wedding hall, all rambling along the wooden corridors of an imposing heritage structure which has been designated a private cultural asset by the Ministry of Culture, the 130-year-old Kikusuiro, known as the Water Chrysanthemum Tower, boasts the distinction as the oldest ryokan in Nara and a Zen-like atmosphere, thanks to its idyllic location in a corner of Nara Park right across the Sarusawa-ike Pond and the world heritage Kofukuji Temple, and a beautiful garden of its own.
6.Nara Hotel
Tel: +81-(0)742-26-3300
Location: 1096 Takabatake-cho, Nara
A landmark built of cypress in Meiju-era architectural style in the embrace of Nature's bounty and historical glory of the ancient city of Nara, which is right atop a hill overlooking the Ara-ike Pond within the scenic grounds of the well-known tourist attraction Nara Park, within walking distance to many tourist attractions such as Daijo-in Garden, Jodaiji Temple, Kofukuji Temple, Gangoji Temple, Nara National Museum, Yuga-jinjia Shrine, and Fukuchi-in Temple, only 5 minutes bus ride from Kintetsu Nara Station and 8 minutes from JR Nara Station, and having been accommodating foreigne guests and imperial family members ever since its opening in 1909, Nara Hotel falls into the catalogue of a classic westernized style hotel of deluxe class successfully blending the best elements of traditional Japanese character and Western styles, such as the elegant guest rooms decorated in a cozy old-fashioned style with mantelpiece, wooden beam, high ceilings and antique light fixtures, 2 restaurants, bar and lounge where you can relish Japanese delicacies as well as European style food and beverage.
7.Ryokan Matsumae
Tel: +81-(0)742-22-3686
Location: 28-1 Higashi-Terabayashi-cho, Nara
A traditional style travelers inn set off Sanjo-dori within the expansive grounds of Nara Park, close to Sarusawa Pond, Gango-ji Temple, Kofukuji Temple, and Daijo-in Garden, only 2 min walk from Nara Deer Park, 7 minutes walk from Kintetsu Nara Station, and 15 minutes from JR Nara Station, Ryokan Matsumae has just about everything a backpacking college student or a budget world traveller would need for a comfortable and convenient night¡¯s sleep in the thick of the essence of Nara¡¯s culture and nature , such as free parking, Internet access at the lobby, cozy Japanese-style rooms with air-conditioning, tea set, thermos pot, TV, and bathroom with yukata ,bath towel, face towel,soap, shampoo& conditioner, etc,
8.Ryokan Seikan-so
Tel: +81-(0)742-22-2670
Location: 29 Higashi-Kitsuji-cho, Nara
With a long-standing reputation dates back to the early 20th century, a fairly central and convenient location in a quiet neighborhood about a 10 min walk south of Nara Park and 15 min walk from Kintetsu Nara Station, close to such major tourist attractions as the Kasuga Shrine, Todaiji Temple and Kofukuji Temple, and a very Japanese feel with its tatami dining room where Japanese or western breakfast is available, shared bathrooms, and tatami guest rooms with samovar and a small veranda overlooking perhaps the lushest garden of any Japanese ryokan you've ever seen which is replete with an eyeful of greenery with manicured lawns and ornamental plants and groomed azalea bushes and other flower plants, you have no reason not to forgive the limited English knowledge of the manager of Ryokan Seikan-so.
9.Sunroute Hotel Nara
Tel: +81-(0)742-22-5151
Location: 1110 Takabatake-cho, Nara
Ideally located in the heart of Nara, and surrounded by the scenery and serenity of the famous Nara Park and Nara-machi, Sunroute Hotel Nara manages to strike a perfect balance between pleasing surroundings and polished service, with well-appointed rooms which are furnished with all basic amenities like air-conditioning, Internet access, refrigerator, micro wave oven, telephone, satellite cable TV, and bathroom with a shower and complimentary toiletry, on-site restaurant and coffee shop where you can enjoy your choice of casual bite, refreshing drink or full-course dinner, well-equipped function rooms and conference facilities for organising your business meetings, shuttle services to the city center, and personalized services meant to meet very specific need of visitors to Nara.
Tel: +81-(0)745-32-0514
Location: 13-25 Kudo 2 chome Oji Cho Kita Katsuragi Gun, Nara
Built in 1909 using entirely natural materials, constructed without the use of nails or metal, located only 1 minute walk from JR Oji station on JR or Kintetsu Line and 15 minutes bicycle or bus ride from the world heritage Horyuji Temple, set in it's own expansive private grounds in the surroundings of an exquisite landscaped garden with an abundance of seasonal flora, and operated by an international couple, who have tried every means to introduce and install services and standards of a modern hotel, like Wi-Fi Internet Access, safe storage for valuables, comprehensive travel and city information, air-conditioner in all guest rooms bath with a jacuzzi, shower, while retaining the feel and familiarity of budget Japanese style travellers inn that's rapidly disappearing from Japan, like wattle and daub walls, tatami mat room with rice straw flooring, paper sliding doors, home cooked breakfast using locally sourced materials, Yukata style pajamas and Jimbei jumper, etc, this Japanese-style guesthouse is definetely in the height of its charm.
2.Hotel Fujita Nara
Tel: +81-(0)742-23-8111
Location: 47-1 Shimosanjo-cho, Nara
With its central location just steps away from the Nara City Tourist Center, a 5-minute walk from the Nara Station on JR or Kintetsu Line, and 10-minute walk from the free-roaming deer, world heritage listed temples, and eye-pleasing greenery and mind-soothing scenery of Nara Park, and its services and facilities of an international standard business hotel such as in-room hair dryer, television, telephone, refrigerator, bath or shower and on-site conference rooms, fax service, coffee shop, bar, a western-style Cerfd'Argent Restaurant with a beautiful garden view, and the Wakakusa Restaurant with traditional Kaiseki Japanese course meals as well as seasonal a la carte menus, Hotel Fujita Nara counts itself among some of the best suited basese in town from which to comfortably and conveniently commune with nature and culture in this ancient city.
3.Hotel Halftime
Tel: +81-(0)742-33-5656
Location: 2-11-1 Shibatsuji-cho, Nara
With flexible versatility, functional amenities and friendly service in free parking, non-smoking rooms, Tohkokuro Chinese Restaurant, La Pause French Cake Shop, English speaking receptionists, meeting/banquet facilities, business corner with Interne acess and fax/photocopying services, safety box and free walking tour of Nara at your request, and most importantly, its its compact but cozy rooms with basics like Air Conditioning, Telephone, TV, Hairdryer, Tea/Coffee Maker, Work Desk, Bath, Shower, and Toilet, and its strategical location only 1 min walk from Shin-Omiya Station and 15 min walk from JR Nara Station, from where getting to Kyoto or Osaka requires only 40 minutes, Hotel Halftime surely is cozy, comfortable, and convenient enough to satisfy the business travelers and leisure tourists from foreign countries.
4.Hotel Nikko Nara
Tel: +81-(0)742-35-8831
Location: 8-1 Sanjo-Hommachi, Nara
Typical of the Nikko Hotels International chain and JAL group hotels, Hotel Nikko Nara has a lot of comfort and conveniences to offer the demanding and weary business and leisure tourists traveling on the road, such as a great deal of discounts and special packages for those sightseeing or conducting business affairs in town or just passing by, superb location only 1 minute walk from JR Nara Station West Exit, and 15 minutes walk from Kintetsu Nara Station, comfortable accommodations with heaps of modern amenities and style, plus extra privacy and space, functional rooms to host your next social event, business conferences, banquets, receptions, or weddings, and first-class food and beverage facilities specializing in a wide variety of dining and drinking options, including American, Japanese, Chinese food, teppanyaki grill, tea, etc.
5.Kikusuiro
Tel: +81-(0)742-23-2001
Location: 1130 Takabatake-cho, Nara
An examplary Japanese-style ryokan done in a deluxe ornamental way, with Ara-ike Pond facing traditional style rooms which are decked out with an extravaganza of authentic antiques and precious scrolls, 2 restaurants capable of dishing out both Western and Japanese cuisine, banquet hall, conference room, coffee shop, kiosk, as well as wedding hall, all rambling along the wooden corridors of an imposing heritage structure which has been designated a private cultural asset by the Ministry of Culture, the 130-year-old Kikusuiro, known as the Water Chrysanthemum Tower, boasts the distinction as the oldest ryokan in Nara and a Zen-like atmosphere, thanks to its idyllic location in a corner of Nara Park right across the Sarusawa-ike Pond and the world heritage Kofukuji Temple, and a beautiful garden of its own.
6.Nara Hotel
Tel: +81-(0)742-26-3300
Location: 1096 Takabatake-cho, Nara
A landmark built of cypress in Meiju-era architectural style in the embrace of Nature's bounty and historical glory of the ancient city of Nara, which is right atop a hill overlooking the Ara-ike Pond within the scenic grounds of the well-known tourist attraction Nara Park, within walking distance to many tourist attractions such as Daijo-in Garden, Jodaiji Temple, Kofukuji Temple, Gangoji Temple, Nara National Museum, Yuga-jinjia Shrine, and Fukuchi-in Temple, only 5 minutes bus ride from Kintetsu Nara Station and 8 minutes from JR Nara Station, and having been accommodating foreigne guests and imperial family members ever since its opening in 1909, Nara Hotel falls into the catalogue of a classic westernized style hotel of deluxe class successfully blending the best elements of traditional Japanese character and Western styles, such as the elegant guest rooms decorated in a cozy old-fashioned style with mantelpiece, wooden beam, high ceilings and antique light fixtures, 2 restaurants, bar and lounge where you can relish Japanese delicacies as well as European style food and beverage.
7.Ryokan Matsumae
Tel: +81-(0)742-22-3686
Location: 28-1 Higashi-Terabayashi-cho, Nara
A traditional style travelers inn set off Sanjo-dori within the expansive grounds of Nara Park, close to Sarusawa Pond, Gango-ji Temple, Kofukuji Temple, and Daijo-in Garden, only 2 min walk from Nara Deer Park, 7 minutes walk from Kintetsu Nara Station, and 15 minutes from JR Nara Station, Ryokan Matsumae has just about everything a backpacking college student or a budget world traveller would need for a comfortable and convenient night¡¯s sleep in the thick of the essence of Nara¡¯s culture and nature , such as free parking, Internet access at the lobby, cozy Japanese-style rooms with air-conditioning, tea set, thermos pot, TV, and bathroom with yukata ,bath towel, face towel,soap, shampoo& conditioner, etc,
8.Ryokan Seikan-so
Tel: +81-(0)742-22-2670
Location: 29 Higashi-Kitsuji-cho, Nara
With a long-standing reputation dates back to the early 20th century, a fairly central and convenient location in a quiet neighborhood about a 10 min walk south of Nara Park and 15 min walk from Kintetsu Nara Station, close to such major tourist attractions as the Kasuga Shrine, Todaiji Temple and Kofukuji Temple, and a very Japanese feel with its tatami dining room where Japanese or western breakfast is available, shared bathrooms, and tatami guest rooms with samovar and a small veranda overlooking perhaps the lushest garden of any Japanese ryokan you've ever seen which is replete with an eyeful of greenery with manicured lawns and ornamental plants and groomed azalea bushes and other flower plants, you have no reason not to forgive the limited English knowledge of the manager of Ryokan Seikan-so.
9.Sunroute Hotel Nara
Tel: +81-(0)742-22-5151
Location: 1110 Takabatake-cho, Nara
Ideally located in the heart of Nara, and surrounded by the scenery and serenity of the famous Nara Park and Nara-machi, Sunroute Hotel Nara manages to strike a perfect balance between pleasing surroundings and polished service, with well-appointed rooms which are furnished with all basic amenities like air-conditioning, Internet access, refrigerator, micro wave oven, telephone, satellite cable TV, and bathroom with a shower and complimentary toiletry, on-site restaurant and coffee shop where you can enjoy your choice of casual bite, refreshing drink or full-course dinner, well-equipped function rooms and conference facilities for organising your business meetings, shuttle services to the city center, and personalized services meant to meet very specific need of visitors to Nara.
1.By Air
Nearest International Airport:
Kansai International Airport: on an artificial island off-shore in Osaka Bay, 50 km S of Osaka;
For more detailed information, contact the ... More>>>
Nearest International Airport:
Kansai International Airport: on an artificial island off-shore in Osaka Bay, 50 km S of Osaka;
For more detailed information, contact the ... More>>>
1.By Air
Nearest International Airport:
Kansai International Airport: on an artificial island off-shore in Osaka Bay, 50 km S of Osaka;
For more detailed information, contact the airport on +81-(0)724-55-2500.
Airport Transfer:
Kansai Airport (JR Hanwa Line, 29min)- Tennoji (JR Yamatoji Line, 29min)-JR Nara;
Kansai Airport (Nankai Line, 29min)-Namba (Kintetsu Nara Line, 32min)-Kintetsu Nara;
Kansai Airport (Limousin Bus, 95min)- JR Nara Station Bus Stop.
Nearest Domestic Airport:
Osaka International (Itami) Airport: 10 km north of central Osaka;
For more detailed information, contact the airport on +81-(0)6-6856-6781.
Airport Transfer:
Itami Airport(Airport Bus,30min)-Kintetsu Uehommachi(Kintetsu Nara Line,29min)-Kintetsu Nara.
2.By Rail
From Kyoto:
JR Kyoto (JR Nara Line, Local Train, 58min)- JR Nara;
Kintetsu Kyoto (Kintetsu Kyoto Line, 33min/ 41min)- Kintetsu Nara;
From Osaka:
JR Osaka (Osaka Loop Line/ Yamatoji Line, 48min)- JR Nara;
Kintetsu Namba (Kintetsu Nara Line, Rapid Service Express, 32min)-Kintetsu Nara;
Hommachi (Kintetsu Higashi-Osaka Line, 30min)- Ikoma (Kintetsu Nara Line, 12min)-Kintetsu Nara;
Ferry Terminal (New Tram, 9min)-Suminoekoen- (Subway, 13min)-Tennoji (JR Yamatoji Line, 29min)-JR Nara;
Ferry Terminal (New Tram, 9min)-Suminoekoen- (Subway, 13min)- Namba (Kintetsu Nara Line, 32min)-Kintetsu Nara.
Nearest International Airport:
Kansai International Airport: on an artificial island off-shore in Osaka Bay, 50 km S of Osaka;
For more detailed information, contact the airport on +81-(0)724-55-2500.
Airport Transfer:
Kansai Airport (JR Hanwa Line, 29min)- Tennoji (JR Yamatoji Line, 29min)-JR Nara;
Kansai Airport (Nankai Line, 29min)-Namba (Kintetsu Nara Line, 32min)-Kintetsu Nara;
Kansai Airport (Limousin Bus, 95min)- JR Nara Station Bus Stop.
Nearest Domestic Airport:
Osaka International (Itami) Airport: 10 km north of central Osaka;
For more detailed information, contact the airport on +81-(0)6-6856-6781.
Airport Transfer:
Itami Airport(Airport Bus,30min)-Kintetsu Uehommachi(Kintetsu Nara Line,29min)-Kintetsu Nara.
2.By Rail
From Kyoto:
JR Kyoto (JR Nara Line, Local Train, 58min)- JR Nara;
Kintetsu Kyoto (Kintetsu Kyoto Line, 33min/ 41min)- Kintetsu Nara;
From Osaka:
JR Osaka (Osaka Loop Line/ Yamatoji Line, 48min)- JR Nara;
Kintetsu Namba (Kintetsu Nara Line, Rapid Service Express, 32min)-Kintetsu Nara;
Hommachi (Kintetsu Higashi-Osaka Line, 30min)- Ikoma (Kintetsu Nara Line, 12min)-Kintetsu Nara;
Ferry Terminal (New Tram, 9min)-Suminoekoen- (Subway, 13min)-Tennoji (JR Yamatoji Line, 29min)-JR Nara;
Ferry Terminal (New Tram, 9min)-Suminoekoen- (Subway, 13min)- Namba (Kintetsu Nara Line, 32min)-Kintetsu Nara.
1.Best Season to vist
Spring: Preferably around Mar/April, for cherry blossom bloom, best viewed in Mt. Yoshino;
Autumn: Preferably around Oct/Nov, for changing autumn leaves, best viewed ... More>>>
Spring: Preferably around Mar/April, for cherry blossom bloom, best viewed in Mt. Yoshino;
Autumn: Preferably around Oct/Nov, for changing autumn leaves, best viewed ... More>>>
1.Best Season to vist
Spring: Preferably around Mar/April, for cherry blossom bloom, best viewed in Mt. Yoshino;
Autumn: Preferably around Oct/Nov, for changing autumn leaves, best viewed in Nara Park.
2.National Holidays
1 January: Ganjitsu, New Year's Day;
2nd Monday in January: Senjin-no-hi, Coming of Age Day;
11 February: Kenkoku Kinen-no-bi, National Foundation Day;
20 or 21 March: Shumbun-no-hi, Vernal Equinox;
29 April: Midori-no-hi, Greenery Day;
3 May: Kempo Kinen-bi, Constitution Day;
5 May : Kodomo-no-hi, Children's Day;
3d Monday in July: Umi-no-hi, Marine Day;
3d Monday in September: Keiro-no-hi, Respect for the Aged Day;
23 or 24 September: Shubun-no-hi, Autumnal Equinox;
2nd Monday in October: Taiiku-no-hi, Sports Day;
3 November: Bunka-no-hi, Culture Day;
23 November: Kinro Kansha-no-hi, Labor Thanksgiving Day;
23 December: Tenno Tanjobi, Emperor's Birthday.
3.Festivals & Fun Events
Yamayaki (Grass-Burning) Festival: The day before the 2nd Mon of Jan, Wakakusa-yama hill;
Oh-chamori (Grand Tea Ceremony): January 15, Saidai-ji Temple;
Konin-e Ceremony: January 23, Daian-ji Temple;
Festival of Rice Transplanting: February 9, Sugawara Shrine;
Mantoro: Setsubun (on the eve of Vernal Equinox), Kasuga Grand Shrine;
Shuni-e: March 1-14, Todai-ji Nigatsu-do Hall;
Rice-transplanting Festival (Rice-transplanting Shinto ritual): March 15, Kasuga Grand Shrine;
Oh-chamori (Grand Tea Ceremony): 2nd Saturday and Sunday of April, Saidai-ji Temple;
Kenpyo-sai(Ice Dedication Festival): May 1, Himuro Shrine;
Takigi-noh (Firelight Noh): May 11 & 12, Kasuga Grand Shrine & Kofoku-ji Temple;
Uchiwa-maki (Fan-throwing Ceremony): May 19, Toshodai-ji Temple;
Mass for Bamboos & Incantation against Cancer: June 23, Daian-ji Temple;
Light-up Promnade Nara: July 1 to October 31, Todaiji Temple;
Nara Toka-e: 10 days in mid-August, Nara Park;
Man-toro (Ten-thousand Lantern Festival): August 14 & 15, Kasuga Grand Shrine;
Daimonji-okuribi (Great Bonfire Festival): August 15, Mt.Takamado, Tobihino;
Lantern Mass for the Great Buddha's Hall: August 15, Todai-ji Temple;
Jizoe-mantokuyo: August 23 & 24, Gokuraku-bo of Gango-ji Temple;
Uneme Matsuri(Festival for the Consolation of Uneme): Full-moon Day of Sep, Uneme Shrine;
Deer-horn Cutting Ceremony: Sundays & holidays of October, Kasuga Taisha Shrine Rokuen;
Kasuga Wakamiya Festival: December 17, Kasuga Grand Shrine.
4. Health & Safety Tips
No inoculation is required for entering Japan from anywhere around the world;
Tap water is safe to drink anywhere in Nara, but bottled water surely tastes better;
Nara Prefec.has about 450 medical facilities capable of offering services in foreign languages;
High standard medical services are expected in facilities of Nara's medical system;
Wash your hands after fondling a deer in Nara Park and its outskirts;
Never feed the deer on plastic bags, amd better keep the kids watching while feeding them;
Those allergic to pollen should prepare themselves accordingly for a visit during mid-February to April, when the most active Yoshino cedar pollen fluctuation occurs;
Foreigners in need of daily life counseling can Nara International Foundation -Commemorating the Silk Road Exposition (NIFS) on 0742-27-2436.
5. Useful Phone Numbers
Emergency:
Police: 110;
Fire/ Ambulance:119.
Tourist Information:
Horyuji I Center (Ikaruga no sato Information): 0745-74-6800;
Nara City Tourist Information Office in JR's Nara Station: 0742-22-9821;
Nara City Tourist Information Office in Kintetsu Nara Station: 0742-24-4858;
Nara City Tourist Information Office on Sarusawanoike Pond: 0742-26-1991;
Nara City Tourist Center: 0742-22-3900(Japanese), 0742-22-5595(Foreign language);
Nara Prefectural Passport Office: 0742-35-8601;
Nara Prefectural Government,Planning Department, International Affairs Division: 0742-24-2485;
Nara International Foundation-Commemorating the Silk Road Exposition (NIFS): 0742-27-2436.
Spring: Preferably around Mar/April, for cherry blossom bloom, best viewed in Mt. Yoshino;
Autumn: Preferably around Oct/Nov, for changing autumn leaves, best viewed in Nara Park.
2.National Holidays
1 January: Ganjitsu, New Year's Day;
2nd Monday in January: Senjin-no-hi, Coming of Age Day;
11 February: Kenkoku Kinen-no-bi, National Foundation Day;
20 or 21 March: Shumbun-no-hi, Vernal Equinox;
29 April: Midori-no-hi, Greenery Day;
3 May: Kempo Kinen-bi, Constitution Day;
5 May : Kodomo-no-hi, Children's Day;
3d Monday in July: Umi-no-hi, Marine Day;
3d Monday in September: Keiro-no-hi, Respect for the Aged Day;
23 or 24 September: Shubun-no-hi, Autumnal Equinox;
2nd Monday in October: Taiiku-no-hi, Sports Day;
3 November: Bunka-no-hi, Culture Day;
23 November: Kinro Kansha-no-hi, Labor Thanksgiving Day;
23 December: Tenno Tanjobi, Emperor's Birthday.
3.Festivals & Fun Events
Yamayaki (Grass-Burning) Festival: The day before the 2nd Mon of Jan, Wakakusa-yama hill;
Oh-chamori (Grand Tea Ceremony): January 15, Saidai-ji Temple;
Konin-e Ceremony: January 23, Daian-ji Temple;
Festival of Rice Transplanting: February 9, Sugawara Shrine;
Mantoro: Setsubun (on the eve of Vernal Equinox), Kasuga Grand Shrine;
Shuni-e: March 1-14, Todai-ji Nigatsu-do Hall;
Rice-transplanting Festival (Rice-transplanting Shinto ritual): March 15, Kasuga Grand Shrine;
Oh-chamori (Grand Tea Ceremony): 2nd Saturday and Sunday of April, Saidai-ji Temple;
Kenpyo-sai(Ice Dedication Festival): May 1, Himuro Shrine;
Takigi-noh (Firelight Noh): May 11 & 12, Kasuga Grand Shrine & Kofoku-ji Temple;
Uchiwa-maki (Fan-throwing Ceremony): May 19, Toshodai-ji Temple;
Mass for Bamboos & Incantation against Cancer: June 23, Daian-ji Temple;
Light-up Promnade Nara: July 1 to October 31, Todaiji Temple;
Nara Toka-e: 10 days in mid-August, Nara Park;
Man-toro (Ten-thousand Lantern Festival): August 14 & 15, Kasuga Grand Shrine;
Daimonji-okuribi (Great Bonfire Festival): August 15, Mt.Takamado, Tobihino;
Lantern Mass for the Great Buddha's Hall: August 15, Todai-ji Temple;
Jizoe-mantokuyo: August 23 & 24, Gokuraku-bo of Gango-ji Temple;
Uneme Matsuri(Festival for the Consolation of Uneme): Full-moon Day of Sep, Uneme Shrine;
Deer-horn Cutting Ceremony: Sundays & holidays of October, Kasuga Taisha Shrine Rokuen;
Kasuga Wakamiya Festival: December 17, Kasuga Grand Shrine.
4. Health & Safety Tips
No inoculation is required for entering Japan from anywhere around the world;
Tap water is safe to drink anywhere in Nara, but bottled water surely tastes better;
Nara Prefec.has about 450 medical facilities capable of offering services in foreign languages;
High standard medical services are expected in facilities of Nara's medical system;
Wash your hands after fondling a deer in Nara Park and its outskirts;
Never feed the deer on plastic bags, amd better keep the kids watching while feeding them;
Those allergic to pollen should prepare themselves accordingly for a visit during mid-February to April, when the most active Yoshino cedar pollen fluctuation occurs;
Foreigners in need of daily life counseling can Nara International Foundation -Commemorating the Silk Road Exposition (NIFS) on 0742-27-2436.
5. Useful Phone Numbers
Emergency:
Police: 110;
Fire/ Ambulance:119.
Tourist Information:
Horyuji I Center (Ikaruga no sato Information): 0745-74-6800;
Nara City Tourist Information Office in JR's Nara Station: 0742-22-9821;
Nara City Tourist Information Office in Kintetsu Nara Station: 0742-24-4858;
Nara City Tourist Information Office on Sarusawanoike Pond: 0742-26-1991;
Nara City Tourist Center: 0742-22-3900(Japanese), 0742-22-5595(Foreign language);
Nara Prefectural Passport Office: 0742-35-8601;
Nara Prefectural Government,Planning Department, International Affairs Division: 0742-24-2485;
Nara International Foundation-Commemorating the Silk Road Exposition (NIFS): 0742-27-2436.
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