Nara Park in Nara City is a 660-hectare land and is one of the most attractive tourist spots. It is popular for the friendly deer enjoying their lives on the ground and turtles swimming freely in the lake. Take a dip in the lake and feed the local deer their favourite crackers. There are multiple temples in the complex with Todaiji being the most impressive. You will enter the temple through the Nandaimon Gate, guarded by two 7 m tall Herculean statues.
Move ahead and you will come across Isuien, a large and peaceful garden. It looks beautiful during autumn but is open for visitors throughout the year. This garden has large stepping stones and is mostly secluded. After your exploration, take a break and enjoy snacks from the multiple kiosks and tea houses available at the premises. These kiosks also sell souvenirs as memorabilia to this place.
Highlights
• Interact with tame deer at Nara Park who are extremely friendly and playful, adding to your fun experience at the tourist destination.
• Learn about the rich culture and history of Japan’s Buddhism through the monuments and art pieces adorned throughout the park.
• Seek blessings from the renowned Buddhist temples surrounding Nara Park and immerse in the grandeur of Todaiji Temple with a 15 m high statue.
• Bask in the fragrance of wisteria flowers while walking on the opposite side of Todaiji where the white shrine buildings are adorned with brass lanterns.
• Enjoy high tea and snacks at the vintage kiosks and tea houses where local vendors sell delicious evening meals to the tourists.
How To Reach
1. By Car: Nara Park is 36.5 km from the Osaka City Centre and takes around 50 minutes.
2. By Train: Nara Park is at a walking distance from the Kintetsu-Nara Train Station, which will take you merely 6 minutes.
3. By Bus: The distance between Nara Park and Kintetsu Nara Station is 800 m and can be covered by the Nara City Loop Bus. This bus will drop you anywhere in and around the park.
Best Time To Visit
Nara Park is open all around the year for tourists and always offers a glimpse of the friendly deer. The best time to visit Nara Park is from March to May and October to November. Visit during 8 am and 5 pm as all the attractions are open during these hours.on weekday as weekends are generally more crowded.
Other Essential Information
- Although taxis are available to drop you from one end to another, the best way to explore the park is on foot as you get to catch a glimpse of everything.
- Deer around the park are cheerful and friendly and nudge the tourists when hungry. So, if you are not into feeding crackers then keep your food hidden to avoid their unwanted attention.
- Get a unique park tour with athletic rickshaw runners parked all around the premises. This can be an especially relaxing experience if you are travelling in summer.
Learn About History At Nara National Museum
The museum is a must-visit in the Nara Park as it is both experiential and informational. It was established in 1889 and is carefully designed to give you a sight into the religious and artistic history of the country. There is a rich collection of ceremonial objects, paintings, and statues which give a glimpse of the Japanese norms. You will find various scriptures from the Heian, Nara, and Asuka periods. There is also a temporary exhibit of Buddhist culture.
Visit the Kasuga Taisha Shrine
This revered Shinto shrine was established in 768 AD and is popular for the several stone and bronze-finished lanterns. These lanterns have been donated by the worshippers who lit them during festivals. This exudes a magical atmosphere, especially when the dusk falls upon the park. Kasuga Taisha Shrine is home to various auxiliary shrines lined with age-old trees. Its vermilion buildings and a captivating history gives you a hint of the Japanese spirituality and religious beliefs.
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