Cherry Blossom in Japan 21-Day Itinerary – Day 8
On day 8, join us on an unforgettable journey through Nara, Japan, a city steeped in history and natural beauty. From checking into the cozy Guesthouse Nara Backpackers to savoring a delicious vegetarian lunch at Ashura, we explored iconic landmarks like Todaiji Temple and Nara Park. Strolling through Kofukuji Temple and relaxing at Sarusawa Ike Pond Park, we immersed ourselves in the city’s serene charm. Our adventure culminated with a visit to Nakatanidou Mochi Shop, where we witnessed the traditional art of mochi-making. Get ready to be captivated by our exploration of Nara’s cultural treasures and scenic wonders!
Highlights of the Day
- Osaka Loop Line
- Guesthouse Nara Backpackers
- Ashura Vegetarian Restaurant
- Todai-ji Temple
- Nara Park
- Kofuku-ji Temple
- Sarusawa Ike Pond Park
- Nakatanidou Mochi Shop
Osaka to Nara
After savoring a yummy breakfast from local spots in Osaka, we waved goodbye to APA Hotel & Resort Midosuji Honmachi-Eki Tower and set off for Nara. With our backpacks on and a buzz of excitement, we strolled over to Hommachi Station, just a stone’s throw away. Jumping on the Chuo Line (green line), we embarked on the next part of our journey, taking in the sights from cityscapes to countryside views as we chugged along the Osaka Loop Line. This journey offered us a unique perspective of the city as it looped around Osaka’s central districts. The train ride was not just a means of transportation but a window into the heart and soul of the city, setting the tone for our day of exploration ahead.
Arriving at Nara Station, we were greeted by the rhythmic beats of an artist drumming away with slippers, instantly immersing us in Nara’s vibrant atmosphere. It was a playful and welcoming introduction to the city’s unique charm. Eager to dive into Nara’s magic, we hopped on the Nara city loop bus, a breeze for getting around town. We got off at Kencho-mae station, just a short jaunt from our crash pad for the night, Guesthouse Nara Backpackers. We were all geared up to see what Nara had in store for us.
Guesthouse Nara Backpackers
Guesthouse Nara Backpackers offers budget-friendly accommodation just 200 meters from Nara Park, in a charming 100-year-old building. It features both private rooms and dormitories equipped with essentials like reading lights, power outlets, and privacy curtains. The guesthouse provides free Wi-Fi, a modern kitchen with a microwave, and bicycle rental services. Guests share bathrooms and toilets, and the guesthouse is conveniently located near Kintetsu Nara Train Station for easy access to nearby attractions.
We booked the entire space, which includes a variety of rooms ranging from large to small, each with traditional Japanese dรฉcor and serene garden views. The large private room, spacious for up to five people, offered a cozy atmosphere perfect for relaxing. The smaller rooms provide a comfortable, intimate setting, while dormitory options โ both mixed and female-only โ ensure privacy with features like reading lights and curtains.
The guesthouse encourages guests to be mindful of noise, particularly during quiet hours. Although common areas close overnight, the space offers free facilities like internet access, a kitchen, and a shower room. For a small fee, laundry services and toiletries are available. With its traditional charm and modern comforts, Guesthouse Nara Backpackers is a peaceful and convenient retreat, ideal for exploring Nara.
Lunch at Ashura Vegetarian Restaurant
Located at ๅฅ่ฏๅธๅทไนไธ็ชๆๅๆน็บ18-3, Ashura Vegetarian Restaurant offers a fusion of Indian and Asian cuisine in a cozy setting with traditional Japanese-style seating. The English menu caters to various dietary preferences, offering both dishes with and without egg and milk. The restaurant is open from 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm, Monday to Tuesday and Friday to Sunday. Run by a charming elderly couple, Ashura Vegetarian Restaurant stands out for its warm, personalized service. The hostess takes the time to ensure each guestโs dietary needs are met, especially for those with gluten or lactose allergies.
Our visit to Ashura was the perfect start to our Nara adventure. The delicious food and the inviting atmosphere made it a memorable stop. The coupleโs genuine hospitality made us feel right at home. If you find yourself in Nara, Ashura Vegetarian Restaurant is a must-visit for a flavorful and heartwarming dining experience.
Nara Sightseeing
After a delightful lunch at Ashura Vegetarian Restaurant, our Nara adventure began with a visit to Todaiji Temple. We hopped on the convenient Nara loop bus, disembarking near the temple’s entrance at Kasugataishaomotesando Bus Stop. Steeped in history, Todaiji Temple is a testament to Japan’s rich cultural heritage, housing the iconic Great Buddha statue and serving as a symbol of Buddhism’s profound influence.
Todai-ji
Todaiji Temple stands as a majestic symbol of Japan’s ancient heritage. Constructed in the 8th century, it boasts architectural grandeur and historical significance. The temple’s main hall, Daibutsuden, houses the Great Buddha, a monumental statue crafted from bronze and gold. Visitors marvel at the sheer scale and craftsmanship of this iconic figure, which embodies Buddhist teachings of compassion and enlightenment. Surrounding the temple, expansive grounds offer serene pathways and tranquil gardens, inviting contemplation and reflection. As one of Nara’s most revered landmarks, Todaiji Temple continues to inspire awe and reverence among pilgrims and tourists alike, serving as a timeless testament to Japan’s spiritual and cultural legacy.
Nara Park
Nara Park offers a stunning, peaceful environment, especially during cherry blossom season. Vibrant pink flowers fill the landscape. Artists captured the beauty of blooming trees and serene surroundings. The park is also home to Naraโs sacred deer. These gentle creatures roam freely, greeting visitors. We enjoyed feeding them deer crackers, making the experience memorable. The peaceful atmosphere, playful deer, and scenic views made our time in the park magical. Whether admiring cherry blossoms, watching artists, or feeding deer, Nara Park is a perfect spot to relax and embrace nature and culture.
Kofuku-ji
Kofuku-ji Temple is a stunning representation of Naraโs rich cultural heritage, with a history stretching back centuries. As we approached the temple, we were greeted by the towering Five-storied Pagoda, which stood majestically against the clear sky. The temple complex is vast, with several buildings, each intricately designed and rich in religious significance. Walking through the temple grounds, we were struck by the serene atmosphere and the peaceful surroundings, providing a perfect place for reflection. Dedicated to the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, Kofuku-ji has a deep spiritual significance for both locals and visitors.
We admired the beautiful architecture, including the iconic Five-storied Pagoda, which is a National Treasure of Japan. The calmness of the temple and its cultural importance made it an unforgettable stop on our Nara exploration. Whether appreciating the fine details of the buildings or simply soaking in the tranquility, Kofuku-ji Temple offers a unique and meaningful experience for anyone visiting Nara.
Sarusawa Ike Pond Park
After a day of exploring Naraโs temples, we found a peaceful haven at Sarusawa Ike Pond Park. Nestled within lush greenery, the pond reflected the clear blue sky, offering a calming atmosphere that provided much-needed relaxation. Surrounded by cherry blossoms in full bloom, the park created a perfect picturesque setting. We wandered along winding paths, enjoying the gentle breeze and the calming sounds of nature. The sight of local artists capturing the beauty of the park on their canvases added to the charm. Sitting by the waterโs edge, we took a moment to rest on a bench, soaking in the tranquil ambiance. Sarusawa Ike Pond Park became a serene escape from the bustling streets of Nara. It offered us a peaceful retreat where we could reflect and unwind. This hidden gem provided the perfect spot to recharge and enjoy the peaceful side of Nara.
Nakatanidou Mochi Shop
We wrapped up our Nara adventure with a visit to Nakatanidou Mochi Shop. The traditional mochi-making process captivated us. Skilled artisans pounded rice cakes, turning sticky rice into soft, chewy treats. The air was filled with the sweet aroma of freshly pounded mochi. We couldnโt resist tasting these delicate creations. Each bite of soft, subtly sweet mochi was a perfect ending to our day. It offered a true taste of Japanโs culinary tradition. The craftsmanship and dedication were clear in every piece of mochi. We left with a delicious treat and a deeper appreciation for Japanโs rich heritage. It was a sweet conclusion to our Nara journey.
Goodbye from Nara
As we wrap up our journey through Nara, we find ourselves reflecting on the unforgettable moments this beautiful city has given us. From peaceful strolls through Sarusawa Ike Pond Park to the vibrant cherry blossoms of Nara Park, every corner of this place holds a story. The awe-inspiring Todaiji Temple and tranquil Kofuku-ji Temple have shown us the deep spiritual essence of Nara. In contrast, Nakatanidou Mochi Shop allowed us to witness the artistry of traditional Japanese sweets. Moreover, the warm welcome at Guesthouse Nara Backpackers and the flavorful dishes at Ashura Vegetarian Restaurant made our stay even more memorable.
Nara’s charm lies in its unique blend of history, nature, and culture, leaving us with cherished memories of encounters with friendly deer and serene landscapes. As we bid farewell to this enchanting city, we carry its spirit with us, grateful for the experiences that have enriched our journey. Arigatou gozaimasu, Nara, for offering us a glimpse into your timeless beauty, and we look forward to returning one day to explore even more of your treasures. Until next time, Nara.
Total Distance Traveled: 10 km
NET EXPENSE FOR 1 PERSON (IN USD)
Let us have a look at the shared expenses of Day 8 in Japan โ Ultimate Osaka in 1 Day Itinerary
- Guesthouse Nara Backpacker (1 night): $50
- 21-day Japan Railway Pass: Already purchased on day 1
- Other transportation (metros): $3
- Entrance fee of temples: $7
- Meals and miscellaneous expenses: $20
Total expense (roughly): 80 USD
For a more customized itinerary, whether for solo or couple or group of any number of people, feel free to contact me on Contact Us page.
If you are planning for a much-organized, tastefully-curated, stress-free yet exciting vacation, consider booking your holidays atย Ubuntu Vegan Travel, previously known as Travel Love Repeat. It is going to be a treat for sure!
This blog and you both are beautiful. Let’s go Japan again.
Thank you Abhinav, yes let’s go to Japan!
We spent a few weeks in Japan and saw a lot. But even that was not enough to see it all. I never knew abut Nara until after our visit and am sad we missed on this treat. We loved visiting the temples in Japan and would not miss the Todaiji Temple and Kofuku-ji Temple. But the big attraction would be the sacred Nari deer. Visiting during cherry blossom season would only make this better! Definitely a spot to enjoy on a return visit to Japan.
Japan honestly feels endless when it comes to places to explore โ no matter how long you stay, thereโs always more to see! Nara had such a peaceful and special atmosphere, especially with the temples, gardens, and those famous deer casually walking around everywhere. And yes, during cherry blossom season it felt even more magical. I really hope you get to include Nara on your next Japan trip because I think youโd absolutely love it there!
I’ve been dreaming about visiting Japan for years, and it’s held a top spot on my bucket list! Nara looks like it was an absolute dream location to visit, and has made me want to travel to this gorgeous country all the more.
Aww thank you so much! Nara honestly felt so peaceful and magical โ especially with the temples, gardens, and deer roaming around freely everywhere. Japan had been on my bucket list for years too, and experiencing it in real life somehow felt even more special than I imagined. I really hope you get to visit someday and make that dream come true!
Nara looks like a wonderful place to visit, and pretty affordable from your daily cost rundown. I didn’t know that Nara Park was more than just a park with deer. It’s great to find out that there are plenty of temples to visit as well and you can spend a lot of time there. The deer is just a cute bonus. I’ve seen deer whilst hiking before, but never so close – they usually run away when they notice me.
Yes, thatโs exactly what surprised me too about Nara! Before visiting, I mostly associated it with the deer, but thereโs actually so much history, culture, and beautiful temple architecture there that you can easily spend a full day or more exploring. And the deer are definitely not shy at all ๐ Some of them come incredibly close, especially if they think you have deer crackers with you. It made the whole experience feel really unique and memorable!
It is nice that you were able to find budget-friendly accommodation near Nara Park and the train station. We have been to Japan a couple of times, but for some reason, we keep skipping Nara. After reading your post, I realized that we are missing a lot. Will make sure to include this in our itinerary on our next Japan trip.
Thank you! Honestly, Nara ended up being one of those places that quietly surprised me. I initially thought of it mainly as a quick deer park stop from Kyoto, but thereโs actually such a lovely mix of temples, peaceful streets, gardens, food, and atmosphere there. Staying near the station and Nara Park made everything super convenient too. I really think youโd enjoy adding it to your next Japan itinerary โ especially since you already love Japan!
I work as a tour guide in Japan and visit Nara quite often. Unfortunately most tourists come only for a day trip from Kyoto or from Osaka. But the city is really worth an overnight stay. It gets more quiet in the evening and there are a lot of good food options too.
I completely agree with you! Staying overnight in Nara made such a big difference to the experience for me. Once the day-trippers leave, the city feels so much calmer and more atmospheric, especially around the temples and park areas in the evening. And yes โ I was pleasantly surprised by the food options too! It must be wonderful experiencing these places regularly through your work as a tour guide in Japan.
Nara, is a beautiful place with its laid back charm and serene beauty. It has a lot to offer for visitors with the cherry blossoms of Nara Park, the tranquility and spiritual grace of Todaiji and Kofuku-ji temple also the much greenery of Sarusawa Ike pond park and not to forget the cozy atmosphere at the Guesthouse Nara backpackers and the delicious vegan food at Ashura restaurant. Nara is indeed a great blend of history, nature and culture!
Thank you so much! You described Nara so beautifully and perfectly captured why I enjoyed it so much. I absolutely loved how peaceful yet culturally rich the city felt โ from the temples and ponds to the cherry blossoms and friendly deer wandering around everywhere. And yes, the cozy guesthouse and vegan food made the experience even more memorable. Nara really ended up being one of my favorite places in Japan!
Although have planned a few trips for my clients have never been to Japan myself. So it was interesting getting a first feel of Nara. Ashura Vegetarian Restaurant would be of great interest aa ww love veg food when abroad. The temples Todai-ji Temple and Kofuku-ji Temple would certainly be a must visit. Would love to check out Nakatanidou Mochi Shop also. Nice guide.
Thank you so much! Thatโs actually so interesting that youโve planned Japan trips for clients before visiting yourself ๐ I think youโd really enjoy Nara because it has such a calm and traditional atmosphere compared to some bigger cities. And yes, Ashura Vegetarian Restaurant was such a lovely find! The temples were absolutely stunning, and watching the fresh mochi being pounded at Nakatanidou was such a fun experience too. Hope you finally get to experience Japan for yourself soon!
Happy to know that there are so many things to see and do in Nara. I love the close interaction you have with the deer at the Park. It just proves how serene and safe the place it. Will make sure to include Nara in our next trip to Japan.
Thank you! Nara really surprised me with how much there was to experience beyond just the famous deer. The atmosphere felt so peaceful and relaxed, and the deer roaming freely around the temples and parks made the whole city feel incredibly unique. Some of them are definitely very confident around people too ๐ Iโm so happy to hear youโre considering adding Nara to your next Japan trip โ I really think itโs worth spending at least a night there!
Wow! This is an excellent itinerary that I might just follow as it is! Good to know that Nara has a good connectivity with the loop bus. A guesthouse in a 100yr old building? I’d definitely want to stay here. A fusion of Indian & Japanese cuisine and vegan too? That’s awesome! It would have been so endearing to know that the chef had lived in Kolkota. It’s good to know that you can watch Mochi being prepared here. Yum yum yumm…
Thank you so much! ๐ Iโm so happy the itinerary was helpful. And yes, that 100-year-old guesthouse added so much charm to the whole Nara experience โ it really felt cozy and traditional. The vegan Indian-Japanese fusion meal was such an unexpected and memorable find too, especially hearing the chef had lived in Kolkata! And honestly, watching fresh mochi being prepared was both fascinating and dangerously tempting ๐ Hope you get to experience Nara and Kyoto for yourself someday!
Wow! This is an excellent itinerary that I might just follow as it is! Good to know that Nara has a good connectivity with the loop bus. A guesthouse in a 100yr old building? I’d definitely want to stay here. A fusion of Indian & Japanese cuisine and vegan too? That’s awesome! It would have been so endearing to know that the chef had lived in Kolkota. It’s good to know that you can watch Mochi being prepared here. Yum yum yumm… Thanks for this. ๐
Thank you so much! ๐ Iโm so happy the itinerary was helpful. And yes, that 100-year-old guesthouse added so much charm to the whole Nara experience โ it really felt cozy and traditional. The vegan Indian-Japanese fusion meal was such an unexpected and memorable find too, especially hearing the chef had lived in Kolkata! And honestly, watching fresh mochi being prepared was both fascinating and dangerously tempting ๐ Hope you get to experience Nara and Kyoto for yourself someday!