Embark on a captivating journey through Nara, Japan, where ancient temples, friendly deer, and stunning natural landscapes await. In this weekend guide, immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking beauty of one of Japan's most enchanting destinations. Start at the heart of Nara with its rich history and end with a spectacular view of its lesser-known places.

A Weekend in Nara

Leave the hotel and make your way towards the park, stopping at a cute photo spot along the route (shown below).

Take the Kintetsu-Osaka Line Express train bound for Osaka-Uehommachi from Hasedera Station. Arrive at Sakurai Station where you board the Sakurai Line Local train heading towards Nara Station. After a roughly 30-minute journey, you'll finally arrive at Nara Station.

Begin your exploration of the surrounding nature and feed the deer. There are many areas here to interact with these gentle creatures (but don't let them fool you, they can be a bit aggressive when it comes to the cookies. Make sure to read the signs and follow the rules)

Head to Todaiji Temple to delve into its serene ambiance and rich history.

Spend some time exploring the temples in the vicinity before taking a break for lunch.

For lunch, there are a couple of places around the smaller temples with good food. So just choose a restaurant that works best for you.

After lunch, continue your journey towards Kasuga Taisha, where you can immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere and explore the shrines surrounding it.

Make sure to check out the Meoto Daikokusha shrine while you're here. It is known for worshipping married Shinto deities and is a beloved spot among couples seeking blessings for a joyous and harmonious marriage.

Return to the main town, where a plethora of dinner places await your selection. Take the opportunity to wander through the charming streets, exploring the shops and soaking in the ambiance of this cute little city.

For a delightful and quick dessert treat, I highly recommend visiting the Good Knight ice cream shop. You'll find a plethora of flavors to choose from.

Depart from Kintetsu Nara Station and make you way to Tsubosakadera. Be sure to grab a quick snack or breakfast before leaving, there is a long journey ahead of you.

To reach the temple, start by taking the train from Kintetsu Nara Station. Transfer to a Kashihara Jingumae-bound train at Yamato Saidaiji Station. Upon arrival at Kashihara Jingumae, switch to a Yoshino-bound train. Disembark at Tsubosakayama Station, which is the third stop. From there, you'll find a bus conveniently located right outside the station. Ride the bus to its final stop which will be the temple. 

Kintetsu Nara Station - Yamato Saidaiji Station

amato Saidaiji Station -  Kashihara Jingumae Station

Kashihara Jingumae Station- Tsubosakayama Station

Tsubosakayamaeki Bus Stop (Tsubosakayama Station) - Tsubosakaderazen Bus Stop

Depart from the train station and head back to the Nara Station. 

The temple has been known as the temple of eye health. It is visited by many people who pray for the prevention of eye diseases.

This temple, influenced by both Japanese and Indian architectural styles, is adorned with magnificent statues of a majestic Buddha and an eleven-faced Kannon of Mercy.

Depart Tsubosakadera temple and head to Hasedera temple. 

once you arrive at Hasedera station and make your way towards Haseji for a nice traditional lunch.

To reach Hasedera Temple, take the bus from Tsubosakaderazen Bus Stop to Tsubosakayama Station. From there, board a train at Tsubosakayama Station bound for Kashihara Jingumae Station. Transferat Kashihara Jingumae Station and get on the train heading to Yamato-Yagi Station. Finally, switch trains at Yamato-Yagi Station to reach Hasedera Station, from there the temple is a 15/20 minute walk to the temple.

Tsubosakaderazen Bus Stop -  Tsubosakayamaeki 

Tsubosakayama Station - Kashihara Jingumae Station

Kashihara Jingumae Station - Yamato-Yagi Station

¥800 for a joint ticket to enter the Great Buddha Hall and the Todaiji Museum 

It would be best to arrive in Nara the day or night before your temple exploration to ensure a relaxed and timely start to your day. For those seeking budget-friendly accommodation options, I highly recommend Mini Inn Nara. This place offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere at an affordable price. The rooms are comfortable, and its convenient location provides easy access to Nara's iconic deer park, just a short 5 minute walk away.

Alternatively, if you're interested in immersing yourself in a more traditional lodging experience, I suggest considering Onyado Nono Nara. While it may be more expensive compare to other accommodations, this traditional Japanese inn offers a luxurious and authentic ambiance. Indulge in the tranquility of tatami-matted rooms, enjoy exquisite kaiseki meals, and unwind in the soothing waters of a traditional onsen, all while experiencing the charm of traditional Japanese hospitality.

After lunch, the temple is conveniently just a 5-minute walk away. Upon arrival, take your time to immerse yourself in its stunning views and beauty. Explore the temple surroundings, allowing yourself and take in the serene atmosphere as you wander through the temple grounds, soaking in the rich history and spiritual essence of this revered site.

Make your way back towards the train station, I recommend along the way take some time to explore the neighboring shops.

During the spring season, you may have the chance to witness wedding photoshoots taking place amidst the scenic backdrop of cherry blossoms in full bloom.



Spring is undoubtedly the temple's busiest season, drawing a considerable number of visitors to revel in its beauty. Both spring and autumn are widely regarded as the best seasons to experience the temple's charm, as nature paints a picturesque backdrop of colors and tranquility. However, for those seeking a quieter experience away from the crowds, late autumn emerges as the ideal time to visit, when the foliage is still resplendent but the influx of tourists has tapered off.

I highly recommend that you collect goshuin, traditional Japanese temple stamps. They can be cherished souvenirs that encapsulate the spiritual journey of each visitor. Collecting goshuin allows you to commemorate your temple visits and create a unique memento of your travels through Japan's rich cultural heritage. Don't miss the opportunity to collect these intricate and meaningful stamps, each bearing the distinctive mark of the temple you've visited, adding a touch of authenticity to your memories.

A Weekend in Nara

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