7 Tips for Living in Nara

This is a must read if you're moving to Nara or thinking about moving there.

Living in Nara as an expat or digital nomad can be an exciting and enriching experience. This ancient city, once the capital of Japan, is steeped in history and culture, and offers a unique blend of traditional and modern lifestyles. Here are seven key tips to help you make the most of your time in Nara.

1. Learn the Language

While it's possible to get by in Nara with English, learning Japanese can greatly enhance your experience. Not only will it make daily tasks easier, but it will also open doors to deeper cultural understanding and friendships. Consider taking language classes or using language exchange apps to practice with locals.

2. Explore the Neighborhoods

Nara is a city of diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm. Naramachi, the old merchant district, is a maze of narrow lanes lined with traditional houses, shops, and cafes. The area around Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer, offers a mix of temples, museums, and green spaces. Meanwhile, the modern district around Kintetsu Nara Station is a hub of shopping and dining.

3. Enjoy Local Cuisine

Nara's culinary scene is a delight for foodies. The city is known for its kakinoha sushi, sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves, and its yamato cha, a local green tea. For a taste of these and other local specialties, try restaurants like Kakinoya, a long-established sushi restaurant, or Yamatocha-en, a tea shop that also offers tea ceremonies.

4. Embrace the Culture

Immerse yourself in Nara's rich cultural heritage. Visit the city's many temples and shrines, such as Todai-ji, home to the world's largest bronze Buddha statue, and Kasuga Taisha, famous for its lanterns. Explore the Nara National Museum, which houses a vast collection of Buddhist art. Participate in local festivals, like the Nara To-kae, a summer lantern festival, or the Kasuga Wakamiya On-Matsuri, a winter festival featuring traditional music and dance.

5. Get Around by Bike

Nara is a compact city, and one of the best ways to get around is by bike. Many of the city's attractions are within cycling distance, and there are plenty of bike rental shops around. Cycling also allows you to explore at your own pace and discover hidden gems off the beaten path.

6. Connect with the Community

Building connections with locals and fellow expats can greatly enhance your experience in Nara. Join local clubs or groups based on your interests, attend community events, or simply strike up conversations with neighbors or shopkeepers. While it may take time to build these relationships, the effort is well worth it.

7. Respect the Etiquette

Japanese society is governed by a complex system of etiquette, and showing respect for these customs is crucial. This includes everything from bowing properly, removing your shoes before entering a home or certain buildings, to handling business cards with both hands. While it can be daunting at first, most people will appreciate your efforts to respect their customs.

Living in Nara, Japan as an expat or digital nomad is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a rich and vibrant culture. By embracing the language, exploring the neighborhoods, enjoying the local cuisine, immersing yourself in the culture, getting around by bike, connecting with the community, and respecting the etiquette, you can make the most of your time in this beautiful city.

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