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.
Best souvenirs
Authentic items worth bringing home.
Kakinoha-zushi (packaged)
Price: ¥1,500–¥3,000 ($10–$20) for 8–10 pieces
Where: Hirasou (30 Hashimotocho), Tanaka (Kintetsu Station basement), airport shops
Yoshino-kuzu (arrowroot) confections
Price: ¥800–¥3,000 ($5.20–$19.50)
Where: Yoshinokuzu Honpo (6 Mochiidonocho), Higashimuki arcade shops
Shika (deer) themed goods
Price: ¥500–¥3,000 ($3.25–$19.50)
Where: Throughout Higashimuki arcade and near Nara Park entrances
Nara Sarugutsuwa (monkey face talisman)
Price: ¥500–¥1,200 ($3.25–$7.80)
Where: Traditional craft shops in Naramachi
Akahada-yaki ceramic ware
Price: ¥2,000–¥30,000 ($13–$195)
Where: Nara craft shops in Naramachi and Mochiidon-cho
Nara ink (sumi)
Price: ¥1,500–¥15,000 ($10–$98)
Where: Kobaien (7 Tsubaicho, Nara) — Japan's most famous ink maker since 1577
Sake from Nara breweries
Price: ¥2,000–¥8,000 ($13–$52) per bottle
Where: Sake shops in Naramachi; Nara Visitor Center; Takashimaya basement
Nara persimmon leaf tea
Price: ¥800–¥2,000 ($5.20–$13)
Where: Tea shops and health food stores in Naramachi
Traditional markets
Where locals shop and travellers find treasures.
Naramachi Weekend Market
Local crafts, ceramics, vintage textiles, pickles, and handmade accessories from Nara artisans
Where: Naramachi District
Hours: Saturday–Sunday 10:00AM–5:00PM (irregular; check local notices)
Omiwa Shrine Farmers Market
Yamato heirloom vegetables, local miso, seasonal sake, and artisan produce from Nara Prefecture
Where: Sakurai (40 min from Nara)
Hours: First Sunday of each month, 8:00AM–12:00PM