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What Not to Miss in Nara, May 2017
With warm weather, sunshine and blue skies, May is undoubtedly one of the best times to visit Nara. Although a little too late to catch the cherry blossoms, you can find many other spectacular floral displays in the parks, gardens and temple grounds of the region. Alternatively, stretch your legs and walk one of Nara's ancient paths or explore the sights of Nara Park. If lucky, you may stumble across a colourful spring festival or some super-cute baby deer!
To plan your visit or for information on making Nara a day trip from either Kyoto or Osaka, check out our Travel to Nara page.
- The Wisteria in Kasugataisha Shrine
- In the heart of Nara Park, this impressive shrine should definitely be on your list of places to visit this May. The wisteria is beautiful as it flowers, draping the grounds and gardens in purple. History & Culture Nara Park
- Man'yo Botanical Garden
- For the best show of wisteria, head to the Man'yo Botanical Garden, a beautiful strolling garden on the approach to Kasugataisha Shrine. Nature & The Outdoors Nara Park
- Manyo Gagaku Festival
- Get your fill of Japanese culture at this colourful May festival, where tradtional dance and other performances take place on a waterside stage. It is worth it just to see the costumes the performers wear. Cultural Events Nara Park
- Katsuragi Kodo
- This ancient path runs between Katsuragi and Gose and passes Mt. Katsuragi. In May, the azaleas that bloom on the mountaintop are stunning. There is even a ropeway to the top if you don't feel like walking. Find out more about the Katsuragi Kodo Path in our hiking story. Nature & The Outdoors Katsuragi
- Murouji Rhododendron Festival
- Murouji Temple makes for a pleasant excursion from Nara City in any season, but the rhododendrons that bloom in May make it extra worthy of a visit. Combined with the Murou Art Forest and other nearby attractions, you could easily spend a whole day here. Find out more about the area in our Murou destination guide. Nature Events Murouji Temple
- Kohfukuji Temple
- With a history dating back 1300 years, the shrines and temples of Nara display some amazing artworks. World Heritage Kohfukuji Temple is currently holding a temporary exhibition, showcasing some of its most precious Buddhist carvings. History & Culture Nara Park
- Nara Park
- Dotted with attractions and less than an hour from Kyoto and Osaka, Nara Park makes for an fun-filled day trip. The friendly deer that roam the park are one of the major draws and towards the end of May, you may spot some new-born fawns. To plan your Nara Park day trip check our guide to the park. Nature & The Outdoors Nara Park
- Nakatanido
- Japanese food and the seasons are inextricably linked. One of the popular treats in spring is Yomogi Mochi, a delicate treat made with mugwort leaves. Try one of these for a taste of spring! Edible Gifts Nara Park
Getting to Nara Park
Nara Park is a short walk east of Kintetsu-Nara Station. The area can also be reached by walking straight along Sanjo-dori Street from JR Nara Station, but takes roughly 20 minutes. Alternatively, hop on a bus. Nearly all city centre buses make stops in and around the park.
Nara's Key Areas & Destinations
The most defining areas and singularly spectacular destinations at a glance.
Getting to Nara
Centrally located, Nara is easily accessible from Kyoto, Osaka and most major Japanese cities.
