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Nara Park is one of Japan's top destinations. Here, you can enjoy the lush green landscapes and meet the incredibly friendly deer.
Nara Park, also known as Nara Koen, is a perfect spot for nature and Japanese culture lovers. Situated in the heart of Nara city, it is home to famous landmarks such as Todaiji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and Kofukuji Temple.
What makes Nara Park so unique is the presence of over 1,000 wild deer freely roaming the grounds. Join Mytour Vietnam for a stroll through Nara Park and explore what makes this park so fascinating!
Where is Nara Park?
Nara Park is located in Zoshi-cho, Kansai. It is one of Japan's most historically significant parks. Established in 1880 during the Meiji Emperor's reign, the park covers an expansive area of 660 hectares.
This place not only stands out for its breathtaking natural scenery but also houses important cultural and religious landmarks such as Todaiji Temple, which holds a giant Buddha statue, and Kasuga Taisha Shrine, known for its unique stone lanterns. The park is also home to the Sika deer, considered sacred and regarded as 'messengers of the gods.' This is a perfect blend of historical significance and natural beauty, attracting visitors from all over the world.
Nara Park Japan Opening Hours
Nara Park is open 24 hours a day, and admission is completely free. However, if you’d like to interact with the adorable deer, you can purchase deer biscuits for 150 yen per pack of 10 from the park’s vendors.
Notable attractions within the park, such as Todaiji Temple, are open from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM from April to October, and from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM from November to March. The entrance fee is 500 yen. Other temples, shrines, and museums within the park generally have similar opening hours and entrance fees.
How to Get to Nara Park, Japan
To reach Nara Park, you need to first travel to Osaka, as there are currently no direct flights from Vietnam to Nara. From Vietnam, you can choose airlines like Japan Airways, Bamboo Airways, Vietnam Airlines, Cathay Pacific Airlines, etc., to fly to Osaka.
From Osaka, you can choose one of the following options to get to Nara:
- Shinkansen: From Osaka Station, take the Tokaido Shinkansen and get off at Nara Station. The Nozomi line takes about 1 hour, with tickets starting from 9,570 yen (around 2 million VND) for a non-reserved seat.
- Airplane: You can fly from Haneda Airport (Tokyo) to Nara International Airport. The flight takes about 1 hour, with ticket prices ranging from 7,000 to 20,000 yen (approximately 1.4 million to 4 million VND).
- High-speed bus: From the surrounding areas near Osaka Station, you can take a high-speed bus to Nara Station. The journey takes about 3 hours, with ticket prices ranging from 2,000 to 8,000 yen (around 400,000 to 1.6 million VND).
Upon arriving in Nara, you can get around by subway, bus, or on foot. The subway is the most popular option, with tickets costing around 700 to 1,000 yen (approximately 140,000 to 200,000 VND). Buses are a more economical choice, with fares ranging from 160 to 250 yen (around 32,000 to 50,000 VND).
What to Do at Nara Park? Explore Japan's Famous Deer Park
1. Explore Nature and Play with the Adorable Deer
Nara Park is a place where you can relax and enjoy the beauty of nature alongside the friendly deer. The Sika deer are considered 'natural treasures' of the city, regarded as messengers of the gods in Shinto beliefs.
You can purchase special deer biscuits called shika-senbei to feed the deer. Some deer even know how to bow to ask for food, or they can tell when it's time to leave if you wave your hand. However, be careful, as the deer may become aggressive when hungry or fighting for food. Make sure your bags and clothing are properly secured to avoid having your food 'stolen' by the deer!
Don't forget to take home memories of the adorable deer by visiting souvenir shops in the park, where you can buy deer-themed souvenirs such as keychains, scarves, and socks.
2. Enjoy Scenic Views and Photography at Isui-en Garden
Like a peaceful oasis in the heart of Nara city, Isui-en offers serenity and the delicate beauty of traditional Japanese gardening. The garden features two small sections, both designed in classic Japanese styles—one from the Edo period (1603–1868) and the other from the Meiji period (1868–1912). Both have charming little buildings, traditional tea houses, and refreshing streams.
The sound of the flowing water from streams and ponds creates a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for a stroll, sightseeing, and photography. Allow yourself a restful break by spending time at Sanshū-tei, enjoying a light lunch and matcha tea with a stunning view of Todaiji Temple.
3. Visit the Famous Todaiji Temple
Todaiji Temple, one of the most famous tourist destinations in Nara, is a must-visit when exploring the city. It is the headquarters of the Kegon school of Buddhism and is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
The structure has been destroyed by fire twice and was rebuilt during the Edo period. Inside the Great Buddha Hall, visitors can admire the Vairocana Buddha statue, the Buddha of light and compassion, which is considered the largest bronze Buddha statue in the world.
The statue has been recast several times due to damage from earthquakes but still retains its impressive beauty. Recently, a collection of gold and jewels was discovered within the Buddha's knee using X-ray technology, believed to be relics of Emperor Shōmu from the 8th century.
4. Visit the Kasuga Taisha Shrine
Nestled in the lush forest of Nara, Kasuga Taisha is one of the most famous Shinto shrines in Nara. The pathway leading to the shrine is lined with hundreds of stone lanterns, creating a mystical and impressive atmosphere.
As you enter the main area, visitors are captivated by the bright red columns and contrasting white walls, with a roof made of cedar bark. To the right is a long corridor adorned with bronze lanterns, many of which were donated by historical figures.
During February and August, the Mantoro Festival transforms the area into a magical world. About 3,000 lanterns, from the stone Toro lanterns lining the forest path to the hanging bronze lanterns throughout the shrine, are lit from sunset. Visitors can also join the morning prayer session (omairi) at 9:00 AM every day.
5. Enjoy Panoramic Views of Nara at Wakakusa Mountain
Wakakusa Mountain, located right behind Todaiji Temple, offers the perfect spot to take in the full beauty of Nara city. The mountain features two main trails: one leads to a viewing platform in the middle of the mountain, while the other takes you to the summit, which stands at 342 meters.
From the peak of Wakakusa Mountain, you can gaze out over Nara city, including the ancient Heijokyo Palace. In spring, the cherry blossoms on the mountainside bloom, creating a picturesque natural scene perfect for picnics. Especially in late January, the Yamazaki Festival lights the sacred flames on the mountainside, offering a magnificent spectacle visible throughout the city.
In addition to hiking, you can drive to the summit via the Okuyama Driveway. Wakakusa Mountain is also close to Nigatsudo and Sangatsudo, two temples within Todaiji, as well as several traditional restaurants and ryokan inns.
6. Explore the History at the Nara National Museum
In addition to enjoying the natural beauty, don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the history and culture of Japan at the Nara National Museum. The museum houses treasures from the Nara period (710-784 AD), as well as Buddhist art and decorations from all over Japan.
Here, you can admire Buddhist sculptures, paintings, ceramics, and precious jewelry from the Nara period. The museum also displays works from other Japanese periods, ranging from Heian to Edo, offering a comprehensive view of the evolution of art and culture through the ages.
Within the museum grounds, you can visit the Hassoan Tea Room, one of Nara's three famous tea rooms, or relax at the spacious café with an outdoor terrace, serving light meals. Additionally, the basement gift shop offers various items inspired by the exhibits, allowing you to take home lasting memories.
Restaurants Near Nara Park
1. Tsukumo Michelin Starred Kaiseki in Nara
- Address: Minami 1F, 606-2 Sanjocho, Nara, 630-8244, Japan
Tsukumo, tọa lạc tại thành phố Nara cổ kính, là một trong những nhà hàng Kaiseki danh tiếng nhất Nhật Bản, vinh dự nhận được hai sao Michelin. Nơi đây không chỉ gìn giữ tinh hoa của ẩm thực Nhật Bản mà còn mang đến những trải nghiệm ẩm thực tinh tế.
Không gian nhà hàng được thiết kế với gam màu trắng tinh khiết, kết hợp với nét mộc mạc, tạo nên sự hòa quyện hoàn hảo giữa truyền thống và hiện đại.
Tsukumo tôn vinh tinh thần khiêm nhường và trang trọng của văn hóa Nhật Bản qua các kỹ thuật nấu ăn truyền thống, khai thác tối đa hương vị của từng nguyên liệu. Các món ăn cổ điển được trình bày tinh xảo theo phong cách truyền thống, song vẫn được cải tiến về kỹ thuật chế biến để làm nổi bật hương vị của các nguyên liệu cao cấp.
2. Nhà Hàng Maguro Goya
- Địa chỉ: 6 Hanashibacho, Nara City, Nara Prefecture 630-8266, Japan
Maguro Goya (tên gọi có nghĩa là "Lều Cá Ngừ") là nhà hàng chuyên về các món ăn từ cá ngừ, nằm trong khu mua sắm Higashimuki-Kita, phía bắc ga Kintetsu Nara.
This restaurant serves a wide range of dishes, from sashimi and donburi (rice bowls) to crispy fried tuna. Each sashimi and donburi is carefully categorized based on the portion and type of tuna, from lean to fatty cuts. The donburi is served generously, with sashimi placed on top and even layered within the rice. It's an ideal destination for tuna lovers. The restaurant owner speaks English and offers an English menu, which has made the place increasingly popular with international tourists in recent years.
3. Edogawa Naramachi Ten
- Address: 43 Shimomikadocho, Nara City, Nara Prefecture 630-8365, Japan
Although Nara is in the Kansai region, Edogawa Naramachi Ten offers eel in the Tokyo style. Since its establishment 60 years ago, the restaurant has continued to draw customers with its secret sauce recipe. The eel here is steamed and had its fat removed before being grilled, resulting in a more tender texture compared to the grilling style used in the Kansai region.
As for the atmosphere, the restaurant has been converted from a Meiji-era kimono store, offering a relaxing ambiance enhanced by the soft sounds of jazz music. It’s the perfect place to enjoy exquisite food in a laid-back, comfortable setting.
4. Kikusuiro Restaurant
- Address: 1130 Takabatakecho, Nara City, Nara Prefecture 630-8301, Japan
Kikusuiro is a ryotei, a high-end Japanese restaurant with over 120 years of history. Situated near the pristine forests of Mount Kasuga, the surroundings are lush and tranquil. The restaurant is constructed using materials from a famous temple and has been recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Kikusuiro serves exquisite seasonal dishes, offering wonderful flavors in a serene setting. It's also an ideal location for wedding receptions.
5. Harishin Restaurant
- Address: 15 Nakanoshinyacho, Nara City, Nara Prefecture 630-8333, Japan
Harishin is a Japanese restaurant located in Naramachi, the historic district of Nara. Built about 250 years ago as a currency exchange, it is now a luxurious restaurant.
One of the restaurant's signature dishes is the shokado bento (traditional Japanese lunchbox), called kamitsumichi bento. This dish is named after Kamitsumichi, an ancient road from the Nara period that runs in front of the restaurant. The special menu includes sesame tofu made from Yoshino kudzu starch and so, an ancient Japanese cheese. The dishes are beautifully presented, with seasonal ingredients that provide a refined dining experience.
Famous Hotels Near Nara Park - Japan
1. Mountain Home Lodge in Deer Park
Mountain Home Lodge is an affordable accommodation option near Nara Park and other attractions.
- Address: Kasuganocho 158-6
- Reference price: 2,071,000 VND/night
2. Tsukihitei Ryokan
If you're looking for a traditional Japanese ryokan experience, Tsukihitei Ryokan is the perfect choice for you.
- Address: 158 Kasugano-Cho
- Reference price: 13,478,000 VND/night
3. NARA Visitor Center & Inn
If you want to stay close to the city center while saving on accommodation costs, NARA Visitor Center & Inn is the place for you!
- Address: 3, Ikenocho
- Reference price: 1,105,000 VND/night
4. Asukasou
Asukasou is a modern hotel with a cozy, inviting decor, providing you with wonderful moments of relaxation.
- Address: 1113-3 Takabatake-cho
- Reference price: 6,689,000 VND/night
5. SETRE NARAMACHI
SETRE NARAMACHI hotel is a great choice for those looking to enjoy modern amenities and convenient access to nearby attractions.
- Address: 1118 Takabatakecho
- Reference price: 5,323,000 VND/night
Things to Keep in Mind When Visiting Nara Park, Japan
When visiting Nara Park, there are a few important things you should keep in mind to make the most of your experience.
- If you enjoy lively atmospheres, consider visiting the park during spring or autumn to see the cherry blossoms or the vibrant maple leaves. For a quieter, more budget-friendly experience, winter is the perfect season to explore Nara.
Nara Park is a wonderful destination that offers a mix of nature and culture. It's famous for its friendly wild deer, ancient temples, and scenic beauty. Spend the whole day exploring the park, feeding the deer, visiting Todai-ji Temple with its massive Buddha statue, or wandering through the charming little streets.
Don’t forget to visit Mytour Blog to discover more helpful travel tips about Japan, such as: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto, 5-Day 4-Night Kyoto Trip, 23 Kyoto Travel Spots, 13 Kyoto Tours, Kyoto 2-Day 1-Night Trip from Tokyo, Japan eSIM, Tokyo Tourist Spots, Japan Tourist Spots in September, Japanese Summer Festivals, How Much Does a Japan Trip Cost?, 14-Day Japan Travel Itinerary, DIY Japan Travel Guide, What is JR Pass? Why You Need One for Japan Travel, Go-Karting in Japan Guide, What is Nozomi Shinkansen?,... all on Mytour Vietnam.
Get your luggage ready and head over to Nara Park to meet the adorable deer right away!
