Naramachi Old Town Stroll Course Lattice Houses and Local Crafts

Naramachi, spreading south of Nara Park, is an old district where lattice fronted town houses line the streets. Around the World Heritage Gangoji are scattered shops selling Naras traditional crafts and cafes and boutiques set in renovated town houses. Unlike touring the big temples and shrines, this half day course is all about the pleasure of wandering the back lanes.

Course Route

10:00 Start at Kintetsu Nara Station Head south from the station, passing through Sanjo Dori and the Mochiidono shopping arcade toward Naramachi.

10:20 Gangoji A World Heritage site that was once one of the seven great temples of the southern capital. Highlights include a roof with some of Japans oldest tiles and the quiet Gokurakudo hall. About 40 minutes.

11:15 Stroll the Naramachi lanes Wander streets lined with lattice town houses. The sight of houses with red migawari zaru charms hanging at the eaves is unique to Naramachi.

12:00 Lunch at a town house restaurant Have lunch at a restaurant or cafe set in an old house. Dining while gazing at an inner garden is a treat.

13:15 Naramachi Nigiwai no Ie and Koshi no Ie Visit facilities that recreate town house life. You can see up close the clever ideas of old Nara homes.

14:00 Traditional craft hopping Browse workshops and shops handling Nara specialties such as Nara ink, Nara brushes and one knife carving. Great for souvenirs too.

14:45 Break at an old house cafe Rest in a retro space with Nara sweets and coffee.

15:30 Koshindo Hall and the old toy museum Stop by Koshindo, known for the red migawari charms, and a facility where you can play with old fashioned toys.

16:15 Return to Kintetsu Nara Station Pick up a few more souvenirs in the arcade on the way back to the station and finish the half day stroll.

Highlights

The biggest highlight is the townscape itself, where lattice town houses remain. The red migawari zaru charms hanging at the eaves are a signature sight of Naramachi. The old tiled roof of World Heritage Gangoji conveys the weight of history. Touching the craftsmanship of Nara ink and one knife carving is also unique to this area.

Access and Tips

The hub is Kintetsu Nara Station. Naramachi is a compact area best explored on foot, and not suited to a car. The lanes are tangled, so walking with a stroll map in hand helps you avoid getting lost. Many shops close by early evening, so it is best to move a little earlier in the afternoon.

A Quick Tip

The narrow lanes include many homes, so be considerate of residents when taking photos. Combining the Great Buddha in the morning with Naramachi in the afternoon makes for a full and satisfying day.