Nara 1-day itinerary

Begin your day at Nara Park, where over 1,200 wild sika deer roam freely among the temples and gardens. The deer are considered sacred messengers of the gods in Shinto tradition and have been protected here for over a thousand years. Buy a packet of shika senbei (deer crackers) from the vendors and watch the deer bow politely before taking them from your hand. The park is most peaceful in the early morning before tour groups arrive — the deer graze calmly among the cherry trees and ancient stone lanterns.

Walk through Nara Park to Todai-ji, one of Japan's most impressive temples. The Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall) is the world's largest wooden building, and inside sits the Daibutsu — a 15-metre bronze Buddha cast in 752 CE weighing over 500 tonnes. The sheer scale is breathtaking. Try squeezing through the hole in one of the hall's massive wooden pillars — legend says those who fit through are guaranteed enlightenment in the next life. After Todai-ji, walk to Nigatsu-do Hall for a panoramic view over Nara's rooftops and the surrounding hills.

Walk the forest path east to Kasuga-taisha, Nara's most important Shinto shrine founded in 768 CE. The approach is lined with nearly 3,000 stone and bronze lanterns donated by worshippers over the centuries — during the Mantoro lantern festivals in February and August, every lantern is lit and the effect is otherworldly. The vermillion shrine buildings are vivid against the dark forest. Afterwards, stroll through Naramachi — the old merchant quarter with narrow lanes, Edo-period wooden townhouses, small galleries, and craft shops. End with mochi sweets and matcha at a traditional tea house.