1. How long does it take to get from Tokyo to Nara by train?
It takes approximately 2-3 hours to get from Tokyo to Nara by train, depending on the specific route and type of train. Taking the Shinkansen (bullet train) can be faster, while local trains may take longer.
2. Are there any direct trains from Kyoto to Nara?
Yes, there are direct trains from Kyoto to Nara. The Kintetsu Limited Express train and the JR Yamatoji Rapid train both run directly between Kyoto and Nara, with a travel time of about 45 minutes.
3. What is the nearest airport to Nara?
The nearest airport to Nara is Osaka Itami Airport, which is approximately a 40-minute train ride away.
4. Can you walk from Todai-ji Temple to Nara Park?
Yes, it is possible to walk from Todai-ji Temple to Nara Park. The distance between the two is about 1.5 kilometers and takes approximately 20 minutes to walk. There are also signs and pathways that lead directly from the temple to the park. Along the way, you can also enjoy the view of the deer along the streets and in the park.
5. Is there parking available near Todai-ji Temple for cars and bicycles?
Yes, there is parking available for both cars and bicycles near Todai-ji Temple. There are several paid parking lots in the vicinity of the temple, with the closest one being the Nara-Kita Parking Lot. Additionally, there are also designated bicycle parking areas near the temple’s entrance.
6. Are bicycles allowed around Todai-ji Temple and Nara Park?
According to the official website of Nara Park, bicycles are allowed within the park, but not inside temples and other cultural buildings. This means that you can ride your bike around Nara Park, but you will need to park it before entering Todai-ji Temple. Additionally, some areas within the park may have designated bike lanes or pedestrian-only paths, so be sure to follow any posted signs or regulations.
7. Which train station should I stop at for access to Todai-ji Temple?
You should stop at Nara Station for access to Todai-ji Temple. It is located within walking distance from the station.
8. Are there bus tours available that include a stop at Todai-ji Temple in their itinerary?
Yes, there are bus tours available that include a stop at Todai-ji Temple in their itinerary. One example is the “Nara Park and Todai-ji Temple Bus Tour” offered by Nara City Sightseeing Information Center. This tour takes participants to popular spots in Nara such as Nara Park, Kasuga-taisha Shrine, and Kofuku-ji Temple before making a stop at Todai-ji Temple. The tour also includes a visit to the Deer Park and lunch at a local restaurant. Other companies such as JTB and Japan Deluxe Tours also offer bus tours that include a visit to Todai-ji Temple.
9. How much time should I allocate for a visit to Todai-ji Temple, including transportation time?
A visit to Todai-ji Temple typically takes about 2-3 hours, including transportation time. This may vary depending on how much time you spend exploring the temple grounds and its various attractions. It is recommended to allocate at least half a day for a more leisurely visit.
10. Is it possible to enter the temple grounds after sunset?
No, it is not possible to enter the temple grounds after sunset as most temples have fixed opening and closing hours that typically start at sunrise and end at sunset. Additionally, for safety and security reasons, many temples are closed after dark.
11. What is the best way to navigate within the sprawling grounds of Todai-ji temple complex?
The best way to navigate within the Todai-ji temple complex is by following the designated pathways and signs throughout the complex. It is also helpful to pick up a map at the entrance or from one of the information desks. Additionally, you can follow the flow of other visitors or join a guided tour for a more structured and informative experience.
12. Can I bring my own snacks and drinks inside the temple grounds?
It depends on the specific temple and its policies. Some temples may allow small snacks and drinks, while others may not. It’s always best to check with the temple beforehand to avoid any misunderstanding or inconvenience. In general, it’s best to avoid bringing outside food or drink inside the temple as a sign of respect for the sacred space.
13. Are there public restrooms available near Todai-ji Temple?
Yes, there are public restrooms available near Todai-ji Temple. They can be found at the entrance to the temple grounds and inside the Nara National Museum, which is located next to the temple. There are also restrooms available at the nearby Nara Park Visitor Center.
14. How crowded is transportation around Nara during peak tourist seasons?
During peak tourist seasons, transportation in Nara can get quite crowded, especially around popular attractions such as Todaiji Temple and Nara Park. Trains and buses may be more crowded during this time, and it is recommended to plan for longer travel times due to the large number of tourists in the city.
15. Is it possible to rent a private car or taxi for a day trip to explore Todai-ji Temple and other nearby destinations in Nara?
Yes, it is possible to rent a private car or hire a taxi for a day trip to explore Todai-ji Temple and other nearby destinations in Nara. There are several car rental companies and taxi services available in Nara that offer day trips and custom tours. You can do some research online to find the best option that suits your budget and needs. Some hotels also offer private car rental or taxi booking services for their guests. Alternatively, you can also book a day tour with a local travel agency or join a guided group tour to visit Todai-ji Temple and other popular sites in Nara.
16. Are there any boat rides or river cruises that pass by Todai-ji Temple and offer good views of the area?
Yes, there are several boat rides and river cruises that pass by Todai-ji Temple and offer good views of the area. Some popular options include:1. Koushien Meguri: This traditional Japanese boat tour departs from Nara Park and takes visitors on a leisurely ride along the Sarusawa Pond, which offers stunning views of Todai-ji Temple and its surroundings.
2. Sarusawa-ike Sightseeing Boat: This boat tour also operates on Sarusawa Pond and offers a 20-minute ride with views of Todai-ji Temple, Nara Park, and other landmarks in the area.
3. Nara Tonkararin Sightseeing Boat: This sightseeing boat departs from Yanagimoto Port and travels down Hozu River to reach Nara Park. Along the way, passengers can enjoy close-up views of Todai-ji Temple as well as other famous temples and shrines.
4. Hozu Valley Boat Ride: This river cruise operates on the Hozu River and offers beautiful views of the surrounding scenery, including Todai-ji Temple in the distance.
Prices and schedules vary for each boat ride or cruise, so it’s best to check their websites for more information before planning your visit.
17. What are some recommended accommodation options near Todai-ji Temple in case I want to spend more than a day exploring the area?
Some recommended accommodation options near Todai-ji Temple include:1. Nara Hotel: Located within walking distance of the temple, this historic hotel offers luxury accommodation and traditional Japanese hospitality.
2. Guesthouse Tamura – Hostel: This budget-friendly hostel is just a short walk from the temple and offers both private and shared rooms.
3. Nara Royal Hotel: This modern hotel is located in front of Todai-ji Temple and offers spacious rooms with views of the park.
4. Furusato-Kotono-Yado Genshikaku: This traditional Japanese inn is situated next to Nara Park and offers comfortable tatami-style rooms.
5. SANBON inc.: This guesthouse is surrounded by bamboo groves and is a 15-minute walk from Todai-ji Temple. It offers stylish dormitories and private rooms.
6. Kasuga Hotel: This elegant hotel is a 10-minute walk from Todai-ji Temple and features luxurious Western-style rooms with views of the temple or garden.
7. Oak Hostel Nara: Located just a 5-minute walk from the temple, this hostel offers modern dormitory beds as well as private rooms with traditional futons.
8. Hotel Nikko Nara: Overlooking Nara Park, this upscale hotel features spacious rooms, on-site restaurants, and a rooftop bar with stunning views of Todai-ji Temple.
9. Deer Park Inn: Situated on the edge of Nara Park, this cozy inn offers comfortable rooms with Japanese-style decor and free breakfast each morning.
10. Ryokan Matsumae: This traditional ryokan (Japanese inn) is located within walking distance of Todai-ji Temple and features beautiful tatami rooms and hot spring baths.
18. Can I use my Tokyo subway/train card (IC card) for transportation within Nara city?
Unfortunately, Tokyo subway/train cards (IC cards) are not accepted for local transportation within Nara city. You will need to purchase a separate ticket or use a different IC card that is compatible with local transportation in Nara. Some examples of these IC cards include “ICOCA” and “PiTaPa.”19. How much does it cost to visit Nara Park?
There is no admission fee for entering Nara Park. However, some specific attractions within the park may require an entrance fee, such as Todaiji Temple (¥500) and Kofukuji Temple (¥600).
20. Are there any special events or festivals I should know about in Nara?
Some popular events and festivals in Nara include the Omizutori Festival at Nigatsu-do Hall in Todaiji Temple (March), the Deer Calling Festival at Kasuga Taisha Shrine (October), and the Reitaisai Festival at Todaiji Temple (April). It is recommended to check the official tourism website for updated event schedules during your visit.
19. Is it possible to visit both Todai-ji and other popular temples such as Kasuga-taisha in one day using public transportation?
Yes, it is possible to visit both Todai-ji and other popular temples such as Kasuga-taisha in one day using public transportation. Both places are located in Nara Park, so it is easy to explore them on foot or by taking a short bus ride. Additionally, the Nara City Loop Bus, which runs every 10 minutes, makes stops at various popular attractions including Todai-ji and Kasuga-taisha. It is recommended to plan your route and schedule carefully to make the most of your time.
20.Are there any guided tours available in English for Todai-ji Temple and Nara Park?
Yes, there are several guided tours available in English for Todai-ji Temple and Nara Park. These can be booked through various tour companies or through the visitor center at the temple. Some popular options include:1. Guided Tour of Todai-ji Temple and Nara Park: This 90-minute tour is offered by the Nara City Tourism Association and includes a knowledgeable English-speaking guide who will take you around the temple and park, explaining their history and significance.
2. Todai-ji Temple Great Buddha Tour: This hour-long tour is conducted by the temple staff and provides a detailed explanation of the Great Buddha statue, its construction and restoration process, as well as its cultural significance.
3. Cycling Tour of Nara: This half-day tour takes visitors around Nara city, including Todai-ji Temple and Nara Park, on bicycles with an English-speaking guide.
4. Private Customized Tours: Several tour companies offer private tours of Todai-ji Temple and Nara Park in English that can be customized according to your preferences and interests.
It is recommended to book these tours in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, as they tend to fill up quickly.