Shopping in Nara offers everything from vibrant department stores and shopping centres to independent boutique shops and traditional arts and crafts markets where you can soak up the local culture. Most of the popular attractions in the area are situated around the shopping district surrounding Nara Park. Along Sanjo Dori street, you'll find a long stretch of souvenir shops. Nearby, you'll also find Higashimuki Shopping Street and Mochiidono Shopping Street. Here you'll find interesting items like calligraphy brushes and Nara Sarashi fabrics as well as shops making speciality foods and sake. You'll also find big-brand shops, jewellery and haute couture fashion as well as everything from Western fast food to local teahouses to grab a bite between buys.
Nara is a fun place to go shopping for visitors – you can learn about the local history, native arts and culture, and even food as you explore speciality shops and markets. Sample pickled vegetables and fruit for snacks or pick up a traditional nara-fude calligraphy brush.
Best shopping in Nara
Featured stories & fun stuff
7 Best Shopping Experiences in Nara
Nara’s shopping choices surprises many day-trippers with its wide variety of goods – so much so that many regret that they didn’t plan to stay longer. For serious shoppers who are after only top-quality Japanese items, look around the Higashimuki...
Nara may be known for its temples and fascinating historic sites, but you'll also find some great shopping opportunities in this core city. If you want to feel like a local, then brush up on the age-old traditions, shop for...