Nara: Discover Timeless Beauty in a Peaceful Night Stroll

Nara , Japan

Nara: Discover Timeless Beauty in a Peaceful Night Stroll

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About this experience

Step into a different world as you explore the ancient city of Nara after dark—a time when the temples fall silent, the crowds vanish, and the spiritual heart of Japan truly reveals itself. Unlike typical daytime tours, this experience offers you exclusive access to serene, uncrowded sites, glowing under moonlight and lanterns. You’ll walk historic paths, hear the sounds of deer in the sacred forests, and visit beautifully lit landmarks like Nigatsu-dō Hall, which remains open at night. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this tour gives you a deeper connection to Nara’s 1,300 years of history, all in a tranquil, photogenic setting. Whether you're a photographer, history lover, or simply seeking something unique, this tour promises an unforgettable and intimate encounter with Japan’s spiritual past.

Available options

Nara: Discover Timeless Beauty in a Peaceful Night Stroll

What's included

Guided night tour of Nara

Visit to Nigatsu-dō Hall

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

As you approach Tōdai-ji, you’ll first pass through the impressive Nandaimon, or Great South Gate. This massive wooden structure, dating back to the 12th century, is guarded by two fierce-looking Nio statues—protectors of Buddhist temples. The gate’s grand scale and architectural beauty set the tone for the spiritual journey ahead.

Stop 2

Tōdai-ji is one of Japan’s most iconic temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It houses the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), a colossal bronze statue seated in deep meditation. Though the main hall may be closed at night, its majestic presence remains awe-inspiring under the soft moonlight, offering a quiet moment of reflection and reverence.

Perched on a hillside within the Tōdai-ji complex, Nigatsu-dō is a beautiful wooden hall known for its panoramic night views of Nara city. The hall is illuminated after dark, creating a serene and sacred atmosphere. Open to visitors even at night, it’s a hidden gem that captures the quiet, spiritual side of Nara.

The back path behind Nigatsu-dō is a quiet, stone-paved trail lined with lanterns, trees, and mossy walls. Often overlooked by daytime tourists, this peaceful route offers a truly immersive experience—especially at night. As you walk this path, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into another world, guided only by the soft glow of the lanterns and the natural sounds of the forest.

What's not included

Transportation to and from Nara

Meals

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meeting point: In front of the Gyoki Bosatsu Statue at Kintetsu Nara Station.
Your guide will be waiting for you, holding a yellow sign.
Please refer to the map for further details.

About Nara

Nara, Japan's first permanent capital, is a city steeped in history and culture. Known for its ancient temples, friendly deer, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Nara offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The city's well-preserved heritage sites and serene landscapes make it a must-visit destination in Japan.

Top Attractions

Todai-ji Temple

Todai-ji Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan's most famous and historically significant temples. It houses the Great Buddha Hall, which contains a giant bronze Buddha statue.

Historical/Religious 2-3 hours 600 JPY (5.50 USD)

Nara Park

Nara Park is famous for its friendly deer, which are considered sacred in Shinto tradition. The park is also home to several important temples and shrines.

Nature/Cultural 1-2 hours Free (200 JPY for deer crackers)

Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Kasuga Taisha is a famous Shinto shrine with a history dating back to 768 AD. It is known for its many lanterns, which are donated by worshippers.

Religious/Cultural 1-2 hours Free (500 JPY for the Botanical Garden)

Kofuku-ji Temple

Kofuku-ji Temple was once one of the most powerful and influential temples in Japan. It is known for its pagoda and museum, which houses many important artifacts.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours 300 JPY (Museum) (3 USD)

Nara National Museum

Nara National Museum is dedicated to the art and history of Nara and its temples. It houses a collection of Buddhist sculptures, paintings, and other artifacts.

Museum 1-2 hours 620 JPY (5.50 USD)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kakinoha-zushi

A type of sushi where vinegared rice and fish are wrapped in persimmon leaves, giving it a unique flavor and aroma.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish

Nara zuiki

A traditional Nara dish made with chicken, mushrooms, and vegetables cooked in a sweet soy-based sauce.

Dinner Contains chicken

Nara pickles

A variety of pickled vegetables, including radish, eggplant, and cucumber, known for their unique flavors and textures.

Snack/Side Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in Nara Park Biking around the city Tea ceremony Onsen (hot spring) visit Temple visits Traditional crafts workshops Winter illuminations at temples and shrines Deer feeding in Nara Park

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (October to November)

These seasons offer pleasant weather and are ideal for outdoor activities. Spring brings cherry blossoms, while autumn features beautiful fall foliage.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Nara is a very safe city with low crime rates. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of deer in Nara Park, as they can be aggressive when looking for food
• Avoid walking alone in poorly lit or deserted areas at night

Getting there

By air

Kansai International Airport • 50 km (31 miles)
Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 35 km (22 miles)

By train

Nara Station

By bus

Nara Station, Kintetsu Nara Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and covers most major attractions. Day passes are available for frequent travelers.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Nakasenbon Zakuracho Sanjo-dori

Day trips

Osaka

40 km (25 miles) • Half day to full day

Osaka is a vibrant city known for its food, shopping, and nightlife. It offers a mix of modern attractions and historic sites.

Kyoto

40 km (25 miles) • Full day

Kyoto is a city rich in history and culture, with numerous temples, shrines, and gardens. It's known for its traditional tea houses, geisha districts, and historic streets.

Ise

80 km (50 miles) • Full day

Ise is home to the Ise Grand Shrine, one of Shinto's holiest sites. The city offers a serene and spiritual experience, with beautiful forests and traditional architecture.

Festivals

Nara Matsuri • April 25-26 Lantern Festival at Kasuga Taisha • February 3-4

Pro tips

Visit Todai-ji Temple early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more serene experience.
Buy deer crackers to feed the deer in Nara Park, but be cautious and follow the rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable interaction.
Consider staying in a ryokan for a unique cultural experience, complete with traditional tatami rooms, onsen (hot springs), and kaiseki meals.
Explore Nara-machi, the historic district, for a glimpse into the city's past and to shop for local crafts and souvenirs.
Use an IC card like ICOCA for easy payments on public transportation, buses, and some shops and vending machines.