If you want to go from Osaka or Kyoto to Nara, go to JR Nara Station from Kansai International Airport, one of Japan's main international airports. It takes about an hour and a half by limousine bus from Kansai International Airport. Besides, you can also take the Miyakoji Shinkansen, which operates every 30 minutes to JR Nara Station from Kyoto Station. The one-way trip takes about 45 minutes and costs 720 yen. You can use a number of trains and buses from JR Nara Station to reach various tourist areas.

To explore Nara, visit during spring or autumn when the temperature is pleasant for walking around the city.

Many popular tourist attractions surround Nara Park, a picturesque destination where tourists can interact with over 1,000 wild deer. The park is home to several famous temples, such as Todai-ji Temple, which houses a large Buddha statue at approximately 15 meters. The Nara National Museum, also located in the park, features a collection of various Buddha artworks. In the southern part of Nara, the Yoshino area is well-known for Mount Yoshino, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a top destination for cherry blossom viewing in Japan. Every spring, around 200 types of cherry blossoms bloom, covering the entire mountain with stunning pink and white hues. The sight is truly breathtaking!

When in Japan, it is important to adhere to certain rules in public places, which apply to both locals and foreign tourists. Japanese society is highly conscious of the negative effects of cigarette smoke. Smoking while walking is discouraged so as not to inconvenience non-smokers, particularly young children. If you need to smoke, designated smoking areas are available in public places. Also, if you have to make a phone call on public transportation, it is best to avoid doing so as it can cause noise that may disturb other passengers.

If you're in the Nara area, be sure to check out the many Japanese restaurants that offer local cuisine. One popular dish is Kakinoha Sushi, which has been enjoyed since the mid-Edo period. Made with mackerel or salmon wrapped in Kakinoha and fermented, this sushi has a refreshing aroma and delicious flavor. Another local favorite is Narazuke, a sweet pickle made from vegetable pickles like sake and shirouri. You can find Narazuke in specialty stores or try it as Kounomono at Japanese restaurants. Nara is also known for its green tea, particularly the legendary Yamato tea that dates back to the 9th century. Not only is this tea consumed on its own, but it's also used as an ingredient in various dishes, such as Chagayu rice porridge.