7 Winter-Exclusive Tourist Spots in Nara Prefecture

Nara, the ancient capital and birthplace of Japan, is a world-renowned tourist destination that brings together UNESCO World Heritage Sites and nationally treasured cultural properties, built over its 1,300-year history. For many, Nara is a nostalgic destination, often visited during school trips, and it remains a must-visit "spiritual homeland" for all Japanese. While Nara is a staple for domestic travel, its winters are known to be harsh, ranking among the coldest in the Kansai region. This might discourage some from exploring the area during this season.

However, winter offers a unique charm to Nara that shouldn’t be missed. With proper winter gear, you can uncover a different side of Nara, showcasing its seasonal beauty. Embrace the four seasons—a hallmark of Japan—and let us introduce you to the captivating appeal of Nara in winter.

1. Nara Park: "Shiawase Corridor Nara Rurie" Illumination

When visiting Nara Prefecture, one place you absolutely must see is Nara Park. It’s home to invaluable historical buildings and cultural assets like Todai-ji Temple, and you can also interact with wild Japanese deer, designated as a Natural Monument of Japan. It is a representative tourist attraction of Nara Prefecture.

Did you know that Nara Park, famous for its historical significance, also shines brilliantly with illumination?

Every February, the "Shiawase Corridor Nara Rurie" event is held, featuring dazzling illuminations that make Nara Park a signature winter attraction. It connects the three major landmarks of Nara—Kasuga Taisha, Kofuku-ji, and Todai-ji—with a corridor illuminated in lapis lazuli-colored lights.

The landmarks are specially lit up for nighttime access, offering a majestic yet fantastical view. Additionally, various events are held in the park during this period, letting visitors enjoy "Nara" as it can only be experienced on a winter evening.

During the day, Nara Park’s beauty is timeless, often praised in poems from the Manyoshu. But at night, be sure to discover its new charms.

2. Tenri City's "Festival of Lights"

For those thinking, "I want to enjoy Nara Prefecture’s illuminations during the year-end and New Year holidays!", the "Festival of Lights" in Tenri City is highly recommended.

This illumination, which lasts over a month, is a large-scale display featuring 260,000 bulbs, making it the largest and most luxurious in Nara Prefecture. Crystal-blue lights brighten animal sculptures and a giant Christmas tree, decorating the clear winter night sky.

During the event, various activities are held, so it’s not just about watching the lights. For example, at the bustling Tenri Hondori Arcade Street, there are food stalls and souvenir shops, making it perfect for strolling around the town at night. Take this chance to explore new tourist attractions in Nara Prefecture.

3. Dorogawa Onsen

Referred to as the "Karuizawa of Kansai," Dorogawa Onsen, located in Nara Prefecture, is one of the region’s signature hot spring areas. Once flourishing as a lodging town for ascetic monks training in the mountains, the town is now a famous tourist spot, also home to the nearby Snow Park Dorogawa (ski resort).

The retro streetscape, reminiscent of the Showa era, is perfect for strolling. Stylish yet nostalgic cafés and shooting galleries make it a great destination for girls’ trips and family outings.

The Gyoja no Yu Kadojin, with over 330 years of history, stands out as the only ryokan in Dorogawa Onsen offering open-air bath suites. Its ceramic outdoor baths are available for private use as many times as guests wish. This unique blend of classical history and modern sophistication captivates visitors, earning it many repeat guests. The ryokan’s luxurious mountain cuisine and delightful sweets are also popular. Around 15 other inns in the area provide opportunities to enjoy the hot springs while savoring the changing seasons.

The spring water known as Gorogoro Water is a hidden gem of Dorogawa Onsen. Rich in calcium and highly regarded nationwide, many visitors bring it home. Why not add it to your travel souvenirs?

Located near the Godaimatsu Limestone Cave, Dorogawa Onsen is worth visiting when in the vicinity. If driving, remember to equip snow tires.

4. Kashihara Shrine

Dedicated to Japan’s first emperor, Emperor Jimmu, a descendant of Amaterasu Omikami, Kashihara Shrine is the most popular spot for New Year’s visits in Nara Prefecture, attracting over one million visitors annually.

The Inner Worship Hall, open only on special occasions such as New Year’s, showcases an impressive elegance that captures visitors’ attention. Enjoy the shrine’s beautiful scenery while reflecting on Japan’s history.

Adjacent to Kume-cho, the neighboring town of Imai-cho is home to historical streets preserved from the Edo period. Designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, it is often used as a filming location for period dramas. It’s an ideal place for a scenic stroll.

5. Imanishi Seibei Shoten

If you’re traveling as adults, enjoying Nara’s local sake is a great idea. Nara Prefecture, overflowing with historical culture, is also the birthplace of Japanese sake. Among the many historic shops, “Imanishi Seibei Shoten,” established in 1884, which produces and sells the globally renowned "Harushika," is a must-visit.

At the "Sake Brewery SHOP" operated by Imanishi Seibei Shoten, you can enjoy tasting five types of sake when you purchase an original glass. You can try samples with your own glass before buying sake as souvenirs. The sake and glasses change depending on the season, making it exciting even for repeat visitors.

The staff provides polite explanations, so even beginners can feel at ease. Enjoy delicious local sake in a fun way.

6.Mount Miune Rime Ice Festival

Mount Miune, listed as one of Japan’s 300 famous mountains, is a spot where you can see the rare “frost flowers” (muhyō) during the harsh winter season from January to February. The snowy scenery appearing in the cold, clear air of Japan’s winter is truly a sight to behold.

In line with the winter season, the "Mount Miune Rime Ice Festival" is held every year at the "Mitsue Youth Travel Village" at the foot of the mountain. Warm zenzai and vegetable soup are offered to soothe the cold and fatigue of climbers.

On festival days, a special direct bus, the "Frost Line," runs from Kintetsu Haibara Station via Nara Kotsu, making access convenient. Additionally, bus users can receive a discount ticket for Mitsue Onsen "Himeishi no Yu" and a towel as gifts.

7. Wakakusa Yamayaki

The Wakakusa Yamayaki is an annual large-scale event held on the fourth Saturday of January, where Mount Wakakusa, overlooking Nara City, is set aflame all at once.

The sacred fire begins with the "Kasuga Grand Tondo," a burning ritual for old charms and decorative ropes. Following prayers for the safety of the event, the fire is transferred to the central bonfire at the mountain base. Once the signal is given, fire is lit at multiple points on the mountain, creating a striking red landscape. The sight of the mountain engulfed in flames is a must-see.

In recent years, the event has regained attention for its fireworks display, featuring approximately 600 fireworks launched before the mountain is set alight. This combination of a traditional winter ritual and fireworks draws many visitors, from locals to tourists. The rare sight of fireworks in the winter sky alongside the fiery mountain creates a stunning view exclusive to this season.

While it can be seen from Nara Park, the more powerful view from the Heijo Palace Ruins is also recommended.

◎ Winter Tourist Spots in Nara Prefecture

Many people prefer to visit warmer places in winter, but Japan offers countless unique sights that can only be experienced during this season. Why not take a trip to Nara in winter?

Nara isn’t just about history and culture—experience a different side of the prefecture and create unforgettable winter memories.

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7 Winter-Exclusive Tourist Spots in Nara Prefecture