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.
Nara's main sights cluster within a 25-minute walk of Kintetsu Nara Station. The city is exceptionally walkable: Kofuku-ji, Nara Park, Todai-ji, Kasuga Shrine, and Naramachi form an arc reachable entirely on foot. Outlying sites including Horyu-ji (southwestern) and the Nishinokyo temples (Yakushi-ji, Toshodai-ji) require a short train or bus journey. No subway exists — visitors use JR, Kintetsu limited express, and city buses. Bicycles are popular for covering the wider park area.
Transport at a glance
Transport tips
Travel smarter, not harder.
Kintetsu Nara Station is 400 metres closer to Nara Park than JR Nara Station — always prefer Kintetsu if travelling from Osaka or Kyoto
IC cards (Suica, ICOCA, PASMO) work on all city buses and JR trains — load ¥5,000 ($32.50) before arriving
The city bus day pass (¥500/$3.25) is worthwhile if making 4+ bus trips; buy at the Nara Station bus terminal ticket machines
Horyu-ji by public transport: JR Nara → JR Horyuji Station (25 min, ¥200/$1.30) → Nara Kotsu Bus to Horyu-ji Monzen (5 min, ¥180/$1.17) — total ¥380 ($2.47) vs ¥3,500+ ($23+) by taxi
Bicycles are not permitted inside Nara Park near the main deer area — park at designated bicycle stands at the park perimeter
Bus 97 from JR Nara Station serves Horyu-ji directly (50 min, ¥760/$4.95 one-way) — useful if avoiding transfers