7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Nara

Nara, is a city steeped in history, known for its temples, shrines, and the friendly deer roaming its parks. But for digital nomads calling this city home, the urge to explore beyond the ancient capital can lead to some exciting weekend getaways. From the bustling streets of nearby metropolises to the tranquil beauty of hidden gems, there's a perfect escape for every type of traveler. Here are seven destinations that offer a mix of popular and off-the-beaten-path experiences, all within reach for a refreshing break from your remote work routine.

Osaka

Just a short train ride away, Osaka is a vibrant city known for its modern architecture, nightlife, and hearty street food. Digital nomads can take a break from their screens to wander through the neon-lit Dotonbori district, explore the historic Osaka Castle, or indulge in the local culinary scene. The city's energy is contagious, and there's always something new to discover around every corner.

How to Get There: The quickest way to reach Osaka from Nara is by train, which takes about 30 to 45 minutes on the Yamatoji Line or the Kintetsu Nara Line.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to try Osaka's famous takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) at one of the many street food stalls.

Where to Stay: The Swissotel Nankai Osaka offers luxurious accommodations and stunning city views, while the more budget-friendly Hotel Sunplaza provides a comfortable stay in the heart of the action.

Where to Eat: For a unique dining experience, visit the Dotonbori Food Street, where you can sample a variety of local dishes. Be sure to try the kushikatsu (deep-fried skewered meat and vegetables) at Daruma, a local favorite.

Kyoto

Kyoto, the former imperial capital of Japan, is a must-visit for anyone interested in the country's rich history and culture. With its serene temples, traditional tea houses, and well-preserved districts such as Gion, Kyoto offers a peaceful contrast to the hustle and bustle of modern city life. The city's 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites provide a full weekend's worth of exploration for history buffs and culture enthusiasts alike.

How to Get There: Kyoto is easily accessible from Nara by train, with the journey taking about 45 minutes on the JR Nara Line or the Kintetsu Kyoto Line.

Travel Tip: Visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy a tranquil hike up the mountain through the iconic torii gates.

Where to Stay: The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto offers a luxurious stay with views of the Kamogawa River, while the more traditional Ryokan Shimizu provides an authentic Japanese experience.

Where to Eat: For a taste of Kyoto's kaiseki cuisine, head to Nakamura, a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a seasonal menu of exquisitely prepared dishes.

Koyasan

For a truly unique experience, venture to Koyasan, the center of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. This sacred mountain is home to over 100 temples and offers visitors the chance to stay overnight in a temple lodging (shukubo) and participate in morning prayers. The tranquil atmosphere and stunning natural scenery make Koyasan an ideal retreat for those seeking peace and reflection.

How to Get There: To get to Koyasan from Nara, take a train to Hashimoto Station, then transfer to the Nankai Koya Line for Gokurakubashi Station, followed by a cable car ride up the mountain.

Travel Tip: Participate in the morning meditation session offered by many temple lodgings for an immersive cultural and spiritual experience.

Where to Stay: Ekoin Temple offers comfortable accommodations and the opportunity to experience monastic life, complete with vegetarian meals and meditation sessions.

Where to Eat: Enjoy shojin ryori, traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, prepared by the monks at your temple lodging for a unique culinary experience.

Kurama and Kibune

Escape to the mountain villages of Kurama and Kibune, located north of Kyoto. These neighboring villages are perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and experience traditional Japanese culture. Hike the forested trail connecting the two villages, visit the Kurama-dera Temple, and unwind in the soothing waters of Kurama Onsen. In Kibune, you can dine on platforms over the river during the summer months, a practice known as kawadoko.

How to Get There: From Nara, take a train to Kyoto and transfer to the Eizan Railway for Kurama. The journey takes about 2 hours in total.

Travel Tip: Visit during autumn to witness the stunning fall foliage that transforms the landscape into a tapestry of red, orange, and yellow hues.

Where to Stay: Kurama Onsen offers traditional ryokan-style accommodations with the added luxury of natural hot springs.

Where to Eat: Try kaiseki-style cuisine at Kibune Chaya, where you can enjoy seasonal dishes while seated on tatami mats overlooking the river.

Ise-Shima

Ise-Shima is a coastal region known for the Ise Grand Shrine, one of Japan's most sacred Shinto shrines. The area also boasts beautiful natural scenery, including the Ago Bay with its pearl cultivation. Visitors can explore the traditional ama huts, where female divers known as ama showcase their pearl diving techniques and serve fresh seafood meals.

How to Get There: The journey from Nara to Ise-Shima involves taking a train to Iseshi Station, with a total travel time of approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.

Travel Tip: Take a boat tour of Ago Bay to see the pearl rafts and enjoy the picturesque coastline from the water.

Where to Stay: The luxurious Shima Kanko Hotel offers stunning views of Ago Bay and top-notch amenities.

Where to Eat: Visit Ama Hut Hachiman Kamado for a unique dining experience where you can taste freshly caught seafood prepared by ama divers.

Mount Yoshino

Mount Yoshino is renowned for its thousands of cherry trees, making it one of Japan's most famous cherry blossom spots. However, it's also a fantastic year-round destination for hiking and exploring the rich cultural heritage of the area, including numerous temples and shrines. The panoramic views from the mountaintop are particularly breathtaking during the cherry blossom season and autumn foliage period.

How to Get There: From Nara, take the Kintetsu Line to Yoshino Station, which takes about 1.5 hours.

Travel Tip: Visit during the cherry blossom season in spring or the koyo season in autumn to see the mountain covered in a blanket of pink or red leaves.

Where to Stay: Chikurinin Gunpoen offers traditional Japanese accommodation with beautiful garden views and onsen facilities.

Where to Eat: Enjoy local specialties like kakinoha sushi, sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves, at one of the many eateries near Yoshino Station.

Asuka Village

Asuka Village is a lesser-known destination that offers a glimpse into Japan's ancient history. This area is considered the birthplace of Japanese civilization and is dotted with mysterious stone structures and burial mounds. Rent a bicycle to explore the countryside, visit the Asuka-dera Temple, and marvel at the enigmatic carved stones, such as the Asuka Niimasu.

How to Get There: Take a train from Nara to Asuka Station, which takes about 30 minutes on the Kintetsu Yoshino Line.

Travel Tip: Renting an electric-assist bicycle is the best way to explore the village and its surrounding historical sites comfortably.

Where to Stay: Stay at the Asuka Guest House, which offers cozy accommodations and a friendly atmosphere in the heart of the village.

Where to Eat: Try the local Asuka cuisine at Asuka-no-Iori, a restaurant set in a traditional Japanese house with a beautiful garden.

Whether you're seeking the excitement of urban exploration or the tranquility of rural retreats, these weekend getaways from Nara provide a diverse range of experiences for digital nomads looking to balance work and adventure in Japan.