1map logoGo to main page

Tokyo to Nara from $34: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Tokyo, Japan
to
Nara, Japan

How to Get from Tokyo to Nara: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$34 by busBest price
378 kmDistance
3h 13m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Tokyo to Nara with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Train
Average Duration
3h  13m
Estimated price
$80-110
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
8h  55m
Estimated price
$34-59
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 378 km
Duration: 3h 13m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
8h  29m
Estimated price
$40-75
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  6m
Estimated price
$50-75
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
4h  1m
Estimated price
$70-233
Company
various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
3h  30m
Estimated price
$800-801
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
4h  53m
Estimated price
$802-803
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
4h  47m
Estimated price
$804-805
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
4h  35m
Estimated price
$806-807

Traveling From Tokyo to Nara

Embarking on a journey from Tokyo to Nara offers you a fascinating contrast between the bustling urban landscape of Japan's capital and the serene, historical charm of this ancient city.

Best Neighbourhoods in Nara

Nara boasts enchanting neighborhoods that showcase its rich culture and history.

Naramachi
• Traditional merchant houses and historic architecture
• Quaint shops and local eateries lining the streets
Todai-ji Temple Area
• Home to the Great Buddha statue
• Surrounded by beautiful gardens and deer parks
Nara Park
• Free-roaming deer adding charm to the area
• Scenic walking paths and serene open spaces

Best Times To Visit Nara's Attractions

Visiting Nara? Timing your trips can enrich your experience at its top sites.

Todai-ji Temple
Early mornings offer tranquility and fewer visitors for a peaceful experience.
Nara Park
Visit during weekdays in late afternoon to enjoy the deer without crowds.
Kasuga-taisha Shrine
Explore in the early spring for stunning cherry blossoms and fewer tourists.

Nara Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Nara experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons, each offering unique charms. Spring and autumn are particularly delightful times to visit, as mild temperatures and stunning foliage can enhance your sightseeing adventures.

Dining Recommendation in Nara

Savor the exquisite flavors of Kakinoha-zushi, a local specialty of sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves, which provides a fresh, herbaceous taste that's quite different from the sushi offerings in Tokyo. Enjoying this dish in a traditional Nara restaurant surrounded by rustic charm allows you to connect with the region's history and local ingredients in a way that feels truly authentic.

Tokyo - Nara operators

Explore transport companies operating between Tokyo and Nara, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train
Contact phone
050-2016-1603
Website
https://www.jreast.co.jp/multi/en/

Train from Tōkyō Station to Kyōto

Average Duration
2h 17m
Estimated price
$75-110

Train from Kyōto to Nara

Average Duration
44m
Estimated price
$34-45

Train from Tōkyō Station to Narita Airport Terminal 2·3 Station

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$34-590
Bus
Contact phone
0570-048905
Website
http://jrbuskanto.co.jp.e.wn.hp.transer.com

Bus from Tokyo Station Yaesu South Exit to Nagoya Station Shinkansen Exit

Average Duration
5h 9m
Estimated price
$59-342

Bus from Meitetsu Bus Center to JR Nara Station

Average Duration
2h 35m
Estimated price
$5-5

Bus from Keisei Ueno to Nara

Average Duration
8h 29m
Estimated price
$40-75
Plane
Website
https://jal.com

Plane from Tokyo Haneda to Osaka Itami

Average Duration
1h 8m
Estimated price
$1100-1101

Plane from Tokyo Haneda to Kobe

Average Duration
1h 17m
Estimated price
$80-1106

Plane from Tokyo Narita to Osaka Itami

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$70-1102
Website
https://ana.co.jp

Plane from Tokyo Haneda to Osaka Itami

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$1104-1105

Plane from Tokyo Haneda to Kobe

Average Duration
1h 17m
Estimated price
$80-1106

Plane from Tokyo Narita to Osaka Itami

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$1107-1108
Other Show other routes
Contact phone
+81 78-303-6001
Website
https://mk-group.co.jp

Other from Kobe to Nara-shi

Average Duration
53m
Estimated price
$593-594
Contact phone
+81 78-381-7789
Website
https://kamometaxi.com

Other from Kobe to Nara-shi

Average Duration
53m
Estimated price
$593-594

Tokyo to Nara: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Tokyo and Nara offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard catering services vary based on the train operator. For the Shinkansen (bullet train) services operated by JR East, you can find bento boxes (ekiben) available for purchase from food carts, offering a variety of traditional Japanese meals. If you're traveling with Kintetsu, pre-packaged meals are also available, but selection may be limited compared to JR. It’s advisable to bring cash or have a Suica/NiPoPo card ready for onboard purchases.
• The main operators for this route are JR East and Kintetsu. Both provide different seating options: JR East offers Green Car (First Class), Ordinary Car (Economy Class), and Gran Class; Kintetsu has its Premium Seat (First Class) and Standard Seat (Economy Class). Booking a seat in the Green Car may provide you extra comfort and space for your trip from Tokyo to Nara.
• When arriving at Nara Station, you can utilize the coin lockers available for luggage storage. These lockers help you explore the city unencumbered. Nara Station also has restrooms, which are clean and easy to find. Showers are not typically available at the station, so plan your arrival accordingly. To get to the city center, take the Nara Kotsu Bus Line #70 or #72, which will take you directly to Nara Park and is only a short ride away.