Explore the Old Streets of Nara! A Report on "Strolling around Naramachi/Kitamachi 2025" – Enjoy History, Culture, and Food

What Are Naramachi & Kitamachi?

“Naramachi” refers to an area that was once part of the precincts of Gango-ji Temple during the Nara period (710–784) and includes Takabatake, which is centered around the road that connects the eastern and western parts of Nara City, leading to the Yagyu Kaido, the route to the Yagyu area. “Kitamachi” extends from Noborioji Street to the Narayama Hills.
Both areas are popular for strolling, lined with a mix of old and new shops.

JR Kyobate Sta.
JR Kyobate Sta.
SARASA

Naramachi

①Collect Exclusive Limited-Time Goshuin (Temple and Shrine Stamps)!

Sudo Tennosha Shrine

Sudo Tennosha Shrine

Five temples and shrines in the Naramachi and Kitamachi areas are offering special limited-edition Goshuin (temple and shrine stamps). The stamps are designed under the theme “ancient yet modern Nara aesthetics,” featuring intricate patterns from each temple and shrine, making them highly collectible.

Event Period: January 4 (Sat) – February 28 (Fri), 2025
Participating Temples & Shrines: Gango-ji Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Jurin-in Temple, Hannya-ji Temple, Goryo-jinja Shrine, Sudo Tennosha Shrine
Fees: Please inquire with each temple or shrine regarding the offering for temple seals (Nokyo) and shrine seals (Hatsuho). Some sites may also require an admission fee.

②Guided Temple Visits – Explore Normally Restricted Areas!

Kozen-ji Temple
Kozen-ji Temple

Kozen-ji Temple

During the event, you can visit temples on guided tours provided by the Nara Volunteer Guide Association “Suzaku.” In addition to receiving Goshuin, you will have the rare opportunity to see normally restricted areas and view important cultural properties, such as the Standing Amida Nyorai Statue at Kozen-ji Temple.

One of the highlights of this event is that no prior reservations are needed, and guided tours are included—something not usually available at these sites!

Event Period: Saturdays and Sundays in February (12:30–16:30, last admission at 16:15)
Participating Temples:
Naramachi Area: Kozen-ji Temple, Korin-ji Temple, Kontai-ji Temple, Shonen-ji Temple, Tanjo-ji Temple
Kitamachi Area: Tokuyu-ji Temple, Kukai-ji Temple, Goko-in Temple, Nensho-ji Temple
*Please note that temple visits may be canceled or restricted without prior notice due to religious services or other events.

③Indulge in Nara's Homegrown Strawberries at "Nara Strawberry Fair"

SARASA

 SARASA

The best season for Nara’s delicious strawberries has finally arrived! At 11 restaurants across Nara City, you can enjoy special limited-time menu items featuring locally grown strawberries, such as “Kotoka” and “Asuka Ruby.” From sweets that perfectly match the atmosphere of the historical townscapes to luxurious western-style desserts filled with strawberries and cream, a wide variety of strawberry treats awaits!

 SARASA

 SARASA

 SARASA

Event Period: January 4 (Sat) – February 28 (Fri), 2025

④A Gathering of Deer with the Sound of a Natural Horn – "Winter Shikayose"

Winter Deer Gathering ‘Shikayose’ *Image

At Tobihino, located within the precincts of Kasuga Taisha Shrine in Nara Park, the “Winter Shikayose” (Deer Gathering) will take place from January to February. When the sound of a natural horn echoes through the park, deer from all around will emerge, drawn by its melody. This is also a rare opportunity to see deer covered in their winter coats!

Event Period: Weekends and public holidays from January to February 2025
Time: Starts at 10:00 AM (once per day, 15 min)
Exclusions: No event on January 25 and 26.
*Held in light rain, canceled in severe weather.