7 Free Things to Do in Nara

Nara, is a city steeped in history and culture, offering a unique experience for digital nomads who choose to stay for an extended period. While Nara is famous for its temples and deer park, there are plenty of free activities that cater to a variety of interests. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, here are nine free things to do in Nara that will enrich your stay without breaking the bank.

Nara Park

Nara Park is a vast, picturesque space that is home to hundreds of freely roaming deer, considered to be messengers of the gods in Shinto religion. Visitors can walk among the deer, watch them graze, and enjoy the serene atmosphere. The park also encompasses several of Nara's major attractions, including temples and museums. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic on a sunny day.

Location: Nara Park, Noborioji-cho, Nara, Nara Prefecture, Japan. The park is a central landmark in Nara, making it easily accessible from various points in the city.

Travel Tip: While deer crackers are sold around the park, feeding the deer is optional. They can be quite insistent, so be cautious if you choose to feed them.

Nearby: After exploring the park, consider stopping by Nakatanidou for some freshly made mochi, a popular traditional Japanese rice cake.

Todai-ji Temple

The Todai-ji Temple is one of Nara's most iconic landmarks, known for housing the world's largest bronze statue of the Buddha Vairocana. While there is a fee to enter the Great Buddha Hall, exploring the temple grounds is free and offers a glimpse into the temple's grandeur and historical significance. The surrounding gardens and smaller temple structures are equally impressive and worth a visit.

Location: 406-1 Zoshicho, Nara, Nara Prefecture, Japan. It's situated in the northern part of Nara Park.

Travel Tip: Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and experience a more tranquil atmosphere.

Nearby: Stop by the nearby café Mellow for a cozy atmosphere and a selection of coffee and sweets.

Kasuga-taisha Shrine

Kasuga-taisha Shrine is renowned for its hundreds of bronze and stone lanterns that line the pathways. This Shinto shrine, established in the 8th century, is free to enter, although there is a fee for the inner area. The vermilion-colored structures and the mystical atmosphere of the lantern-lined paths provide a peaceful retreat and a fantastic photo opportunity.

Location: 160 Kasuganocho, Nara, Nara Prefecture, Japan. It's located to the east of Nara Park.

Travel Tip: The lanterns are lit twice a year during the Lantern Festivals in early February and mid-August, which is a spectacular sight to behold.

Nearby: Enjoy a traditional Japanese meal at Kinatei, known for its vegetarian-friendly dishes and serene setting.

Mount Wakakusa

Mount Wakakusa, also known as Wakakusayama, offers a gentle hike with panoramic views of Nara City and the surrounding countryside. The hike is free and particularly popular during the cherry blossom season when the slopes are dotted with pink blossoms. The grassy hillside is also the site of the annual Wakakusa Yamayaki, a grass-burning festival held in January.

Location: Zoshicho, Nara, Nara Prefecture, Japan. The base of the mountain is a short walk from Nara Park.

Travel Tip: The mountain is relatively easy to climb, but wearing comfortable shoes is recommended for the best experience.

Nearby: After your hike, refresh yourself at Café Wakakusa, where you can enjoy a cup of coffee with a scenic view.

Naramachi

Naramachi is the former merchant district of Nara, where you can wander through narrow alleys lined with traditional houses and small shops. This historical neighborhood offers a glimpse into old Japan and is free to explore. Look out for the Naramachi Mechanical Toy Museum and the quaint shops selling local crafts and sweets.

Location: Gangoji-cho, Nara, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Naramachi is located south of Kintetsu Nara Station.

Travel Tip: Keep an eye out for the 'machi-no-sumika' (townhouses) that have been converted into museums, galleries, and cafes, which you can visit for free or a small fee.

Nearby: Sample some local sake at Harushika Brewery, which offers free sake tasting in a traditional setting.

Isuien Garden

Isuien Garden is a traditional Japanese garden that dates back to the Meiji period. Although there is a fee for entry, the outer area of the garden is free to explore and offers a tranquil escape with its beautifully landscaped paths, ponds, and tea houses. It's an ideal spot for relaxation and reflection amidst nature.

Location: 74 Suimoncho, Nara, Nara Prefecture, Japan. It's situated near Todai-ji Temple and Yoshikien Garden.

Travel Tip: Visit during autumn to see the garden's foliage in vibrant shades of red and gold.

Nearby: After a peaceful walk, enjoy a traditional tea experience at the nearby Nakatanidou, famous for its matcha and mochi.

Yoshikien Garden

Yoshikien Garden is a hidden gem that offers free admission to foreign visitors. This garden features three distinct styles: a pond garden, a moss garden, and a tea ceremony garden. It's a less crowded alternative to other gardens in Nara and provides a serene environment to enjoy the beauty of traditional Japanese landscape design.

Location: 60-1 Noboriojicho, Nara, Nara Prefecture, Japan. It's located across from Isuien Garden.

Travel Tip: Make sure to bring your passport or a copy of it to gain free entry as a foreign visitor.

Nearby: Visit the nearby Naramachi Koshi-no-Ie, a traditional townhouse open to the public, to learn more about the local architecture and lifestyle.

Heijo Palace Site

The Heijo Palace Site is where the imperial palace once stood during the Nara period when the city was Japan's capital. Today, it's an expansive archaeological site with free admission, featuring reconstructed buildings and informative displays. Walking through the grounds, you can imagine the grandeur of the ancient capital and learn about its historical significance.

Location: Sakicho, Nara, Nara Prefecture, Japan. The site is located west of JR Nara Station.

Travel Tip: Visit the on-site museum to see artifacts and models that provide context to the ruins you'll see around the grounds.

Nearby: Enjoy a casual meal at Maguro Koya, a local favorite known for its delicious tuna dishes.

Shosoin Repository

The Shosoin Repository is an ancient storehouse that belongs to Todai-ji Temple and is part of the Imperial Household Agency. While the interior is not open to the public, the impressive architecture of the building can be admired from the outside. The unique design and historical importance make it a worthwhile stop for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs.

Location: 1-1 Shosoin, Nara, Nara Prefecture, Japan. It's located behind the Great Buddha Hall of Todai-ji Temple.

Travel Tip: Although you can't enter the repository, try to visit during the annual Shosoin Exhibition held in autumn, when some of its treasures are displayed at the nearby Nara National Museum.

Nearby: For a quick bite, head to the nearby Kakinoha Sushi restaurant, where you can try sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves, a Nara specialty.