Nara Prefecture

Hidden Gems

Explore the quieter side of Nara through its traditional architecture and unique local customs. This selection features the Koshi-no-Ie Residence, a preserved merchant house, and the Naramachi Mechanical Toy Museum, where visitors can interact with Edo-period replicas. Culinary highlights include handmade wagashi from a century-old confectionery and local okonomiyaki. For unique experiences, visit a specialized owl cafe or attempt to crawl through the pillar hole at Todai-ji Temple, sized specifically to match the Great Buddha’s nostril.

Hidden Gems — 地図

A

Owl Cafe Watawata

This animal cafe is quite special and as the title suggests here you can dine and enjoy your coffee with owls hanging out with you.

B

中西与三郎

Founded in 1913, this traditional confectionery shop in Naramachi specializes in handmade wagashi and seasonal Japanese sweets.

1012z / CC BY-SA 4.0

C

Naramachi Mechanical Toy Museum

Opened in 2012, this museum invites all children to come and play with their collections of traditional Japanese toys.

D

Koshi-no-Ie Residence

An original Nara type of residence shows the way people had lived not such a long time ago.

E

Surugamachi no Okonomiyakiya

One of the best okonomiyakis - Japanese savory pancakes filled with various ingredients - in the area.

F

Buddha's Nostril

Located within Todai-ji Temple's Daibutsuden, this hole in a wooden pillar is the same size as the Great Buddha's nostril. Legend states that those who successfully crawl through will achieve enlightenment.

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