Hi there!
UNESCO calls the world heritage sites of Nara collectively as the historic monuments of ancient Nara.
List of world heritage sites in Nara
Nara is the location of a former capital city of Japan, in the years 710 to 784. This means it’s a city full of history and culture.
Nara is commonly visited as a day trip from Kyoto or from Osaka.
And with nearly 10 sites that include temples, a shrine, a palace, and a forest on the list of UNESCO designated historically and culturally important places in Nara, how to choose which of them to go to when you only have one day in Nara?
The most popular of these sites are popular for a reason.
But that doesn’t mean the others don’t deserve a look too.
Most of these top places to visit in Nara have grounds that you can roam around.
The famous Nara deer might be roaming with you too. 😉
So if you’re looking to experience a bit of history and culture in Japan, Nara can be a good city to visit.
And another one of the best cities to visit for the same reasons is Kyoto, which is also famous for being a former capital city of Japan.
There are also a ton of world heritage sites in Kyoto too, even more than there are in Nara.
More below about planning a trip to ancient Nara to see UNESCO world heritage sites!
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Now…
First, a map of Nara so you can make plans to visit these historical and cultural places.
Then, a list of some of the world heritage sites that are also among the most visited spots in Nara.
After that, some more world heritage sites for you to explore.
Map of UNESCO world heritage sites in Nara
Better plan out your day in Nara based on where these temples and shrines are located.
Have a look at the map of Nara’s world heritage sites.
If you’re coming from Pinterest mobile, open up this page in your browser to view the map! Then you can also view this Nara map on your Google maps app too.
Top Nara attractions: List of places to visit in Ancient Nara
Listed entry fees are approximate and are subject to change!
1. Todaiji Temple with Great Buddha
Cost: 600 yen (US$5)
2. Kofukuji Temple
Cost: 300 yen (US$3)
3. Kasuga Taisha Shrine
Cost: 500 yen (US$4)
More historic monuments of ancient Nara
- Gangoji Temple
- Toshodaiji Temple
- Yakushiji Temple
- Kasugayama Primeval Forest
- Heijo Palace remains (Nara Imperial Palace)
Plan your trip to Nara
For the best way to see the most popular world heritage sites when you’re short on time, see this one day itinerary of the best places to visit in Nara!
HAPPY HISTORIC NARA TRAVEL PLANNING!