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Nara
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Nara, known as the 'Realm of Deer,' captivates international travelers with its allure. @lunafujimotooo
1. Introduction to the Charming City of Nara, Japan
Nara
2. Ideal Times to Explore the City of Nara
Nara Travel
Spring months are perfect for traveling. @jophyliong
June marks the beginning of the rainy season, resulting in fewer tourists, allowing you to leisurely explore the city without worrying about crowds. If you want to experience festivals, then traveling during the summer months is recommended.
3. How to Get to Nara?
Nara
Travelers heading to Nara must catch a flight to Osaka's Itami Airport first. @shutterstock
Visitors from neighboring cities like Osaka or Kyoto can reach this city by train. It takes about 45 minutes from Osaka and approximately 1 hour from Kyoto.
4. Transportation Within the City
Like other cities in Japan, transportation infrastructure here is highly developed. To travel to attractions, you can choose buses, taxis, or electric cars. Bus and electric car fares are only around 150 yen per trip (~ 26,000 VND), or opt for a day pass for 500 yen (~ 87,000 VND) for more savings.
Buses offer affordable transportation for exploring the city. @shutterstock
Additionally, you can also rent bicycles to explore the city on your own. The rental price is 300 yen per day for regular bikes (~ 52,000 VND) and 1,500 yen per day for electric bikes (~ 263,000 VND).
5. Accommodation Options in Nara City
Nara
Visit Mytour to find great deals on Nara hotels, book in advance for Osaka hotels, and make online payments through the app.
Location: 1 2 Sanjo Honmachi
Price Range: from 1,900,000 VND per night
Super Hotel Lohas JR Nara Station is an excellent choice for those seeking a well-equipped hotel at a reasonable price. Its greatest advantage is its proximity to famous attractions, saving you travel time. In addition to comfortable rooms, Lohas JR Nara Station also offers relaxation services and hot spring baths for guests.
Location: 8 - 1 Sanjo Honmachi
Price Range: from 1,400,000 VND per night
Accommodations at Hotel Nikko Nara are charmingly decorated. @hotelnikkonara
Nara Travel
Location: 11 - 20 Sanji Hommachi
Price Range: from 2,800,000 VND per night
Piazza Hotel is a favorite destination among international travelers for its modern facilities, high-quality accommodations, and professional service. Moreover, Piazza Hotel is conveniently located, making it easy for guests to get around and explore the city.
6. Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in Nara City
Nara
Todaiji Temple
Todaiji Temple is the world's largest wooden temple, built in 751. At the temple, you can admire the giant bronze Buddha statue standing at 15 meters tall and weighing 550 tons. Additionally, Todaiji Temple houses precious artifacts and exquisite sculptures by Japanese artisans.
Crowds flock to Todaiji Temple to marvel at its architecture and precious artifacts. @crikkio
Isuien Garden
Isuien Garden is a 17th-century garden with picturesque landscapes resembling paintings. Every detail, from small streams and green trees to stone lantern-shaped columns, is meticulously cared for, creating a peaceful and dreamy atmosphere. Notably, from Isuien Garden, visitors can gaze afar at Todaiji Temple's roof and the dense forests beyond Mount Wakakusa.
Visitors strike poses in the cool greenery of Isuien Garden. @laugh_of_artist
Nara Park
Nara
Playfully interact with the deer in Nara Park. @lunafujimotooo
Kasuga Shrine
Kasuga Shrine is one of Japan's renowned Shinto shrines, built in 768. The shrine is nestled at the foot of the sacred Mount Mifuta, where Shinto devotees gather for prayers.
Many structures within the shrine are designated as National Treasures and Cultural Properties. @sacchy91
The shrine stands out amidst the mountain forest with its distinctive red paint. Flanking the path leading to the shrine are nearly 2,000 stone lanterns, creating a solemn and mystical atmosphere. Currently, 4 structures within Kasuga Shrine are designated as National Treasures, with 27 others listed as Important Cultural Properties.
Naramachi Street
When visiting Nara, don't miss exploring Naramachi Street to admire its ancient houses and learn about Japanese culture during the Edo period. This area was once inhabited by ancient merchants, and many buildings have been preserved or converted into museums for visitors. Additionally, Naramachi Street boasts numerous shops selling traditional souvenirs, perfect for buying gifts for friends and family.
Experience the traditional, nostalgic atmosphere of Naramachi Street. @shutterstock
Higashimuki Shopping Street
Higashimuki is the liveliest and most bustling street in the city, stretching nearly 250 meters. Along the street are bustling stalls where sellers and buyers gather, offering all kinds of goods. Here, you can find everything you need, from souvenirs, handicrafts, and kimono robes to traditional Japanese sweets. Especially noteworthy are the Mafu-okai shops specializing in linen fabric, 100-yen stores, and various food stalls.
Higashimuki Street is a shopping paradise in Nara City. @khaleeesea
7. What to Eat in Nara?
Nara
Mochi
Mochi, or Japanese rice cakes, is one of the famous delicacies of the Land of the Rising Sun that you can't miss when visiting the country. In the city center, there are many shops selling Mochi cakes, easily recognizable by the long queues of people waiting. The Mochi here has a unique flavor thanks to its delicious red bean filling and traditional recipe.
Mochi is a popular snack in Japan. @shutterstock
Ramen Noodles
Ramen noodles are the next delicious dish you must try on your Japan exploration journey. There are many types of ramen, the most popular being Miso, Tsukemen, and Tonkotsu. The noodles come in 3 types: fresh, dried, and instant, combined with Tare (Shio, Miso, Shoyu) and Dashi (beef, pork, fish bones…) for an irresistible flavor.
The exquisite flavor of ramen delights diners. @shutterstock
Salmon Roll Sushi
Nara travel tips
Salmon Roll Sushi, a culinary masterpiece worthy of Nara's gastronomic excellence. @shutterstock
Senbei
Senbei is a rice cracker originating from China but particularly beloved by the Japanese people. The main ingredients are rice flour and sugar, skillfully crafted by chefs into a special delicacy. Nowadays, to enhance the flavor of senbei, additional ingredients like butter, eggs, or chocolate are often added.
Senbei is a must-try delicacy on your food tour around the city. @shutterstock
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