With a bounty of things to do in Nara with kids, Nara, Japan, deserves a prominent spot on your day trip itinerary when staying in either Kyoto or Osaka. It’s an easy day trip and has a plethora of things to see and do.
Just a short train ride away, Nara is renowned for its enchanting deer park, where friendly deer roam freely, making for a unique and memorable wildlife encounter. The city is also home to Todai-ji, a majestic temple housing the colossal Great Buddha statue, one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks and the very place Sunshine crawled through his nostril!
Visitors can explore Nara’s charming streets, filled with traditional wooden architecture and serene gardens, offering a glimpse into Japan’s ancient past. With its serene ambience and remarkable attractions, Nara with Kids provides a perfect blend of nature, history, and culture, making it an essential addition to your Osaka or Kyoto adventure.
What To See and Do in Nara with Kids
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Todai-ji Temple
Visiting Todai-ji Temple is an awe-inspiring experience for the whole family, but it holds a particular fascination for kids. As you approach the temple, the grandeur of the massive wooden gate, Nandaimon, sets the stage for what lies ahead. Inside, kids will be captivated by the sheer size of the Great Buddha Hall, one of the largest wooden structures in the world.
Encountering the Daibutsu, a monumental bronze statue of the Buddha that stands over 15 metres is sure to blow the kid’s mind. The sheer magnitude of the statue, combined with its serene expression, leaves a lasting impression on young minds.
For Sunshine, the highlight was squeezing through the hole representing the nostril of the Great Buddha statue. Believed to bring good luck and enlightenment to those who successfully navigate it, there were moments when I thought she might get stuck!
Meet the Nara Deer
When visiting Nara in Japan, the adorable deer roaming freely through Nara Park is undoubtedly one of the city’s most enchanting highlights. You can spot these friendly creatures throughout the expansive Nara Park, which is conveniently located near many of the city’s other attractions. I think Sunshine and Striker would have happily just fed the deer for the whole day!
To interact with Nara’s deer up close and personal, consider purchasing some special deer biscuits known as shika senbei. You can find these treats at numerous stalls and shops scattered around the park’s entrances and pathways.
Once you have your biscuits in hand, approach the deer cautiously, as they are quite accustomed to visitors. Extend your hand with a biscuit, and most likely, these gentle creatures will bow in anticipation. Yes, they have learned how to do the Japanese bow!
Be sure to feed them from a flat palm to avoid any accidental nibbles, and relish the incredible experience of connecting with these charming, sacred animals amidst the picturesque beauty of Nara Park.
A word of warning, the deer can become impatient and will do their best to get to your biscuits. I suggest supervising your kids closely and stepping between your child and the deer when they become to assertive. One deer ripped Sunshine’s top when she wasn’t fast enough giving them food!
Nara Visitor Centre
Visiting the Nara Visitor Centre is a great way to enhance your family’s experience in this historic city. Located conveniently near Nara Park and many other attractions, the centre offers a warm welcome to young explorers.
Inside Nara Visitor Centre you’ll find informative exhibits and interactive displays that bring Nara’s rich cultural heritage to life, making it a fun and educational stop for kids. The friendly staff can provide maps, brochures, and valuable insights to help plan your family’s adventures in Nara.
Additionally, the centre often hosts engaging events and workshops suitable for children, making it a fantastic resource for families looking to make the most of their time in this enchanting Japanese city.
They also have clean toilets – the only ones we spotted between the station and Todai-ji Temple!
Kasuga Grand Shrine
As you approach the Kasuga Grand Shrine through the enchanting Kasuga Primeval Forest, I’m certain your kids will be captivated by the mystical atmosphere and the sight of countless stone lanterns lining the pathways.
Once at the shrine, the intricate architecture and vibrant vermilion colours will pique their curiosity. Encourage them to explore the shrine’s beautiful gardens and enjoy the serene ambience.
Kids can also participate in the unique tradition of purchasing wooden prayer plaques (ema) and hanging them on designated racks, making their own wishes or drawings.
Kofoku-ji Temple
This ancient temple, with its iconic five-story pagoda, offers a rich blend of history and spirituality that can capture the imagination of young explorers.
As you stroll through the temple grounds and admire the ornate architecture, share stories of its past and the significance of Buddhist traditions. Kids will also enjoy ringing the temple bell, a popular activity, and exploring the tranquil gardens surrounding the temple complex.
Watch Mochi Pounding
To witness mochi pounding, head to the Nakatanidou shop located in the heart of Nara’s bustling Naramachi district. Here, you can observe skilled artisans vigorously pounding steamed glutinous rice into soft, chewy mochi using giant wooden mallets.
The rhythmic pounding and teamwork involved in the process are not only mesmerizing to watch but also a testament to the preservation of Nara’s culinary heritage.
Plus, you can savour some freshly pounded mochi, available in various flavours, right on the spot. It’s a sensory delight that both children and adults can appreciate while visiting Nara. Nom nom nom!
Gold Fish Scooping
Kochikuya, a traditional Japanese goldfish scooping game, is a delightful experience for visitors of all ages in Nara, Japan.
Located in the picturesque Nara Park area, you can try your hand at scooping up colourful goldfish using a paper scoop, called a “poi.” It’s a fun and challenging activity that requires patience and skill, making it a memorable outing for kids and families.
Find out more about Kochikuya here.
Yoshiji-en Garden and Isui-en Garden
Visiting Yoshiji-en Garden and/or Isui-en Garden in Nara, Japan, is a tranquil journey into the beauty of traditional Japanese landscape design.
Yoshiji-en, located near Nara’s Nishinokyo district, captivates visitors with its serene ponds, meticulously pruned trees, and vibrant seasonal flowers. The garden’s layout is designed to evoke a sense of harmony and peace, offering a perfect place for relaxation and contemplation.
In contrast, Isui-en, situated in the heart of Nara city, showcases a different aesthetic with its spacious lawns, elegant teahouses, and a picturesque central pond.
Both gardens offer a chance to immerse oneself in Japan’s rich horticultural heritage, providing a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Shika Saru Kitsune Building
We added a stop to this building on our itinerary for the coffee. In addition to its quintessential, high-quality specialty coffee, it also offers “Tiki Taka ice cream”, a brand of ice cream from Sarutahiko Coffee, and original curry.
Map of Nara
How to Get to Nara
We reserved a full day on our itinerary to explore Nara, arriving early morning from our accommodation in Osaka. Nara is an easy day trip from either Osaka or Kyoto, so make sure YOU add it to your trip.
From Osaka
By JR: Multiple Yamatoji rapid trains operate every hour between Osaka (JR Osaka Station) and Nara (JR Nara Station). The one-way trip takes 45 minutes and is covered by the Japan Rail Pass. The train also stops at Osaka’s Tennoji Station (30 minutes).
By Kintetsu Railway:By limited express, the one way trip from Osaka-Namba Station to Nara (Kintetsu Nara Station) takes about 30 minutes. By express, it takes just a few minutes longer but is around half the price. Trains also stop at Tsuruhashi Station on the JR Osaka Loop Line. The Japan Rail Pass is not valid on Kintetsu trains.
From Kyoto
Two railway companies, JR and Kintetsu, provide train connections between Kyoto and Nara.
By JR: Miyakoji rapid trains operate every 30 minutes between Kyoto Station and JR Nara Station. The one-way trip takes 45 minutes and is covered by the Japan Rail Pass. For the same fare, the trip could also be made by twice-hourly local trains in 75 minutes.
By Kintetsu Railway: Twice-hourly limited express trains take about 35 minutes for the one way trip from Kyoto Station to Kintetsu Nara Station. Alternatively, there are hourly direct express trains that take 45 minutes. There are additional connections by express trains if you do not mind transferring once at Yamato-Saidaiji Station. The Japan Rail Pass is not valid on Kintetsu trains.
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Other Things to See and Do in Japan
Kyoto with Kids | Osaka with Kids | Hiroshima with Kids
Explore Himeji Castle | Discover Astroboy | Tokyo Samurai Museum | Iwatayama Monkey Park | Senso-ji | Meiji Jingu Shrine | National Museum of Nature and Science | Hachiko | Harry Hedgehog Cafe | Nijo Castle