Nara is Japan's first permanent capital, a compact city of ancient temples, free-roaming deer, and UNESCO World Heritage treasures. Founded as the imperial seat in 710 CE, Nara preserves some of Asia's oldest wooden structures and a living tradition of Shinto and Buddhist heritage that shaped Japanese civilization.
Family activities
Engaging experiences for travellers of every age.
Hand-feeding the Deer in Nara Park
Todai-ji Great Buddha
Mt. Wakakusa Climb
Nakatanido Mochi Pounding Show
Nara Prefectural Museum of Art
Horyu-ji Temple (UNESCO Treasure Hunt)
Yoshino-yama Mountain Adventure (Cherry Blossom Season)
Family-friendly hotels
Accommodation designed with families in mind.
JR Hotel Sunroute Nara
Dormy Inn Nara
Kasuga Hotel
Dining with kids
Eating out as a family.
Kakinoha-zushi is a perfect family food — children love the leaf wrapping and mild mackerel flavour; buy at Hirasou (30 Hashimotocho)
Ramen at Sen no Kaze (4 Konishicho) and okonomiyaki at Okonomiyaki Chitose (2-4 Higashimukicho) are universally popular with children
Convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart near Kintetsu Station) stock onigiri, sandwiches, and hot drinks — reliable for picky eaters
Most mid-range restaurants provide plastic cups for water and have high chairs on request — 'bebii chiea' is the Japanese phrase
Matcha soft serve (near Todai-ji Nandaimon Gate stalls, ¥400/$2.60) is a crowd-pleasing treat
Family travel tips
Practical advice for stress-free family trips.
Build downtime into every day — over-scheduled kids melt down faster than tired adults.
Carry snacks, water, and a small first-aid kit at all times.
Many attractions offer discounted family tickets — ask at the ticket window.