Nara, with its ancient temples, friendly deer, and family-friendly activities, is the ideal destination if you’re visiting Japan with kids. Nara is a city with an enchanting blend of ancient and modern, offering a unique experience for families. This travel guide on Nara with kids will help you plan an unforgettable trip with your little ones.
Why Visit Nara With Kids
- Culture and History: Nara is steeped in history, with temples and shrines dating back centuries. It’s an excellent opportunity for children to learn about Japan’s rich culture.
- Deer Park: Nara’s deer park is a major attraction, where kids can feed and interact with friendly deer.
- Family-Friendly Activities: From hands-on craft workshops to interactive museums, Nara has plenty of activities that will keep kids entertained.
- Safe and Welcoming: Nara is known for its friendly locals and pedestrian-friendly streets, making it a safe and comfortable environment to explore with children.
- Easy Access: Located just a short train ride from Kyoto and Osaka, Nara is easily accessible and can be easily incorporated into a larger Japan itinerary.
Things to Do in Nara With Kids
- Explore Todaiji Temple: This UNESCO World Heritage Site houses the Great Buddha Hall, which holds the world’s largest bronze statue of Buddha. The statue the Great Buddha is a magnificent sight and a cultural experience for the whole family.
- Explore Nara Park: The expansive park is is home to hundreds of friendly Sika deer, a symbol of the city. It’s a great place for picnics and leisurely walks. Children can feed the deer, take photos, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
- Visit Kasuga Grand Shrine: This vibrant shrine, filled with thousands of red lanterns, offers a unique visual experience. Your kids will enjoy exploring the shrine’s many walkways and admiring the intricate details of the architecture.
- Try Japanese Crafts: Take part in a traditional craft workshop, such as pottery or origami, for an immersive cultural experience. Kids can learn new skills and create their own souvenirs.
- Visit Nara National Museum: It has a great collection of Buddhist art and cultural artifacts that will fascinate kids and adults alike. The museum offers educational exhibits and interactive displays.
- Enjoy a Japanese Tea Ceremony: A serene and traditional experience that’s both educational and enjoyable. Kids can learn about Japanese tea culture and etiquette.
- Take a Kimono Walking Tour: Dress up in traditional kimonos and explore Nara’s historical sites. This activity will allow your children to experience Japanese culture in a fun and interactive way.
Best Places to Visit in Nara With Kids
Nara boasts several attractions perfect for families. Here are some of the best places to visit:
- Nara Park: A must-visit for its natural beauty and free-roaming deer. This sprawling park is home to the iconic Sika deer, Todai-ji Temple, and Kasuga Grand Shrine. It’s perfect for picnicking, exploring, and enjoying nature.
- Todaiji Temple: The awe-inspiring statue of Buddha is a sight to behold. Children will be amazed by its size and grandeur.
- Nara National Museum: This museum houses a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits related to Nara’s history and culture. It offers special family programs and interactive displays to keep children engaged.
- Naramachi District: This historic district features preserved wooden buildings from the Edo period. Kids will enjoy exploring the narrow streets and browsing at traditional shops selling souvenirs and local crafts.
- Yoshikien Garden: This beautiful garden offers a peaceful escape from the city. Kids will enjoy strolling through the serene landscape, admiring the koi pond, and exploring the teahouse.
- Isuien Garden: Another stunning garden, Isuien features a traditional Japanese garden with ponds, bridges, and carefully manicured landscaping. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
- Nara Family Park: A lesser-known gem with playgrounds and picnic spots. Kids can play and run around while parents relax in the peaceful surroundings.
Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Nara
Nara offers several family-friendly neighborhoods to choose from:
- Nara Park Area: This area is close to the main attractions, including Nara Park, Todai-ji Temple, and Kasuga Grand Shrine. It’s convenient for families who want to be within walking distance of most sights.
- Nara Station Area: Located near the train station, this area offers easy access to public transportation and is a good choice for families arriving by train. It also has a good selection of restaurants and shops.
- Naramachi District: This historic district offers a charming and unique atmosphere. It’s a good choice for families seeking a more traditional experience, but be aware that some accommodations may not be as modern as other areas.
Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Nara
Nara offers a variety of hotels catering to families. Here are some of the best options:
- Hotel New Otani Nara: This luxurious hotel features spacious rooms, family-friendly amenities like a swimming pool and kids’ club, and convenient location near Nara Park.
- Nara Kasuga Grand Hotel: Located near Kasuga Grand Shrine, this hotel offers traditional Japanese-style rooms and family rooms with tatami mats. It also features a rooftop garden and a restaurant with children’s menus.
- Nara Visitor Center Guest House: This budget-friendly option offers simple but comfortable rooms and is located right next to Nara Park, making it convenient for exploring the city.
- K’s House Nara Naramachi: This hostel offers dorm rooms and private rooms and is located in the heart of Naramachi District. It has a communal kitchen and lounge area, perfect for families looking for a social and budget-friendly option.
Best Time to Visit Nara
Nara can be visited year-round, but the spring and fall months are particularly beautiful.
- Spring (March-May): Enjoy pleasant weather, blooming cherry blossoms, and fewer crowds. However, spring is also peak season, so expect higher prices and potentially larger crowds.
- Summer (June-August): Nara can get hot and humid during summer, but it’s a good time to visit if you enjoy festivals and traditional Japanese summer experiences.
- Autumn (September-November): Enjoy comfortable temperatures, beautiful fall foliage, and fewer crowds compared to the spring peak season.
- Winter (December-February): Nara experiences milder winters compared to other parts of Japan. It’s a good time for budget-conscious travelers, but some attractions may have shorter hours or be closed.
How Long to Stay in Nara
A minimum of 2-3 days is recommended to explore the major attractions and soak in the culture. This allows enough time for leisurely exploration and relaxation. But if you just want to visit Nara Park and Todaiji Temple, one day is enough.
Nara Family Itinerary
Here’s a suggested itinerary for a 2-day trip:
Day 1:
- Morning: Explore Nara Park, feed the deer, and visit Todai-ji Temple.
- Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park, visit Kasuga Grand Shrine, and stroll through Naramachi District.
- Evening: Attend a traditional Japanese performance or enjoy a family dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2:
- Morning: Visit Nara National Museum or participate in a family-friendly activity like a tea ceremony or kimono walking tour.
- Afternoon: Explore Yoshikien Garden or Isui-en Garden, and enjoy a leisurely walk through the serene landscape.
- Evening: Relax at your hotel or explore Nara’s evening scene for a unique glimpse into the city’s nightlife.
Getting Around Nara
Nara is a pedestrian-friendly city, and most tourist attractions are easily accessible on foot. However, the city also offers several public transportation options:
- JR Nara Station: This is the main train station in Nara, offering connections to other cities in Japan, including Kyoto and Osaka.
- Kintetsu Nara Station: This station offers connections to other parts of Nara Prefecture.
- Buses: Nara has a comprehensive bus network that can take you to various parts of the city.
- Renting Bicycles: Renting bicycles is a fun and convenient way to explore Nara, especially if you’re staying outside of the city center.
Nara is a fantastic destination for families, offering a rich cultural experience and plenty of activities for kids. With its friendly deer, ancient temples, and beautiful parks, Nara promises a memorable trip for the whole family. Start planning your family adventure in Nara today!
