Naramachi | Review by Linda Liao

Naramachi

Old townhouses built between the Edo and Meiji periods remained as they were and became an attractive sightseeing spot for walking around gathered with cafes and various shops.

6 Sep 2026 See More

Naramachi is one of Japan's few well-preserved historic districts. It has a long history and was once a thriving commercial and residential community around the temples. Walking through Naramachi, you can really feel the traditional Japanese atmosphere. Many old machiya townhouses remain along the streets, and their long, narrow layouts reflect how people lived in the past.

I recommend visiting Naramachi Koshi-no-Ie while you're here. This building preserves the features of a traditional machiya, and spaces such as the lattice entrance, courtyard, and wooden corridors offer a glimpse into life in a Japanese home in the past. The interior is simple and elegant, with sunlight streaming through the lattice windows. Together with the wooden structure and garden views, it creates a quiet, nostalgic atmosphere. It's a great place both for appreciating traditional architecture and taking Instagram-worthy photos〜

Other Reviews by Linda Liao

Sanjo-dori Shopping Mall

Sanjo Street runs east-west through downtown Nara City from the JR Nara Station on the JR Kansai Line to the Kasuga Taisha Shrine in Nara Park. The Sanjo-dori Shopping Mall stretches along the street from the JR Nara Station to Yasuragi no Michi street, which runs north to south along the west side of Kintetsu Nara Station on the Kintetsu Nara Line.
- Nara
- Shopping Streets
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The Sanjo-dori Shopping Mall is located in downtown Nara and is visible as soon as you exit Nara Station. Along the way, there are restaurants, dessert shops, souvenir stores, and unique little shops where you can try local Nara food and buy souvenirs. You can stroll all the way from the station to Nara Park. It isn't overly crowded, and the pace is relaxed.
Todaiji Temple

In the Nara period (710-794), Emperor Shomu had the Rushana Daibutsu (Great Buddha) built at his request, and a memorial service was held in 752. This temple is one of the representative temples of Nara. It took nearly 40 years to build the temple complex.
- Nara
- Shrines & Temples
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Todaiji is a historic temple known for its majestic Great Buddha of Nara and one of the world's largest wooden Great Buddha halls. When you step inside, the sense of solemnity and awe is truly something photos can't capture.

Behind the Great Buddha is a wooden pillar with a hole in it, said to be about the same size as the Buddha's nostril. Legend has it that if you can crawl through it, you'll be blessed with good health and protection from misfortune. Thinking back to my first visit to Nara, I was young and a little reckless. When I saw everyone lining up, I crawled in without hesitation, and to my surprise, I actually made it through! But when I visited again later, I wasn't as brave. I looked at the opening and decided to "just admire it," worried I'd crawl in and get stuck (lol).
Nara Park

Nara Park is a scenic area surrounded by historical and cultural treasures, including Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Kohfukuji Temple, Todaiji Temple, the Nara National Museum, and Shoso-in. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty of its expansive greenery while exploring these iconic landmarks. The park is located in the center of the city, making it easily accessible to various tourist spots.
- Nara
- Parks & Gardens
6 Sep 2026 See More

The deer in Nara Park are just so adorable! As soon as you enter the park, you can see spotted deer leisurely strolling around, resting on the ground, and even confidently weaving through the crowds without being shy at all. There is a long-standing legend in Japan that deer are messengers sent by the gods to the human world. In Nara especially, deer are considered sacred, so they have always been respected and protected.

Of course, you can't miss feeding the deer while you're here. Vendors all around the park sell “deer crackers,” which are made especially for the deer, mainly from grains like rice bran and wheat flour, and have almost no flavor. But to the deer, they're a real treat! As soon as you have some crackers in your hand, several deer will come right over, and before you know it, you'll be surrounded.

When feeding them, don't chase after the deer. Stay calm and feed them slowly, one cracker at a time. When they're gone, remember to hold out both hands to let the deer know you have no more. It's best to hold the crackers up high; otherwise, when the deer get excited, your hands can easily end up covered in drool, and your clothes may not escape either. They may even give you a few little nips. It's really both adorable and awkward! The most interesting thing is that the deer bow. Bow to them, and they'll bow back〜

But animals are still wild, after all. If you're visiting with children, remember not to let them get too close, so they don't get hurt and everyone can have a safe and enjoyable time.