As the first permanent capital of Japan, Nara is hugely significant. It’s full of historic treasures, including some of the biggest temples in the country.
Start your day with breakfast at Café Wakakusa, where you can get Western style or Japanese dishes ($15). Then, head to the Todai-ji temple where you will find the Daibutsu (Great Buddha) statue, one of the largest bronze statues in the world. It’s free to get into the temple, but you will have to pay $5 to see the Daibutsu.
Hiraso is a great spot for lunch, serving local Nara dishes like pressed sushi in persimmon leaf (kakinoha-zushi). If you can’t get to the restaurant itself, you can get box meals from its kiosk by the station.
In the afternoon, visit the Isuien Garden, and then walk around Nara Park, where you will find the city’s famous tame deer. When you get hungry head to Kura for dinner, but make sure you book ahead as the 16 seats are often full. It’s a traditional izakaya that offers a number of classic dishes such as yakitori and katsu ($25).
If you want to carry on with your night out, try Lamp Bar, whose owner Michito Kaneko was named bartender of the year in 2015 ($17 per drink), or try LBK Craft for an array of beers ($7 each).
Read This Next
‘Ohana at Disney’s Polynesian Resort
Destinations / North America
Nov 22, 2019#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedHotel
Jul 17, 2025Travel with Artfarm Around the World
Founded in 2014 by the Swiss owners of international gallery Hauser & Wirth, Artfarm is a hospitality group known for art- and design-forward hotels, restaurants and bars spanning various vibrant cities.
Sponsored Content
Seoul: Your Next MICE Destination
Seoul has rapidly become a leading global MICE hub, known for its rich culture, advanced technology and strong economy. As the capital of South Korea, it offers a strategic location in East Asia and a booming cultural influence through K-pop, K-movies, Korean cuisine and K-dramas. With its vibrant atmosphere and business-friendly environment, Seoul is increasingly the top choice for MICE organizers and corporate travelers seeking connection and collaboration.
Surveys
Jul 16, 2025Survey Finds Travelers Prefer Skipping Front Desk Check-In
Do you look forward to checking in at your hotel, conversing with front desk staff and maybe getting a few local travel recommendations? Or do you just want to get to your guestroom as quickly as possible? A new survey from hospitality platform provider Mews found, if you’re in the former camp, you might be alone.
Hotel
Jul 16, 2025What’s New at Guarda Golf, an Alpine Switzerland Resort
There’s plenty of reasons to visit Guarda Golf, an alpine resort in Switzerland. Where alpine meets golf boutique, this resort in Crans-Montana offers a space to relax and unwind this summer, as well as a variety of exciting happenings and new experiences.
Hotel
Jul 16, 2025The Revolution Hotel Introduces Two Packages for USA’s 250th Anniversary
As the country prepares for the American Revolution’s 250th anniversary, Boston’s The Revolution Hotel recently launched two offers honoring the city’s founding legacy. History buffs, especially, will enjoy the new packages pairing immersive tours with thoughtful details.
Cruises
Jul 15, 2025What’s New on Cunard’s Recently Revamped “Queen Elizabeth”
Cunard recently gave iconic Queen Elizabeth a bit of a refresh, gearing her up for her first season homeporting in Seattle and offering cruises to Alaska.
ShareThis