Nara is not only known for its stunning temples and parks but also for its delightful shopping opportunities. Whether you’re searching for unique souvenirs, local delicacies, or traditional crafts, Nara’s shopping districts have something special for everyone.
Shopping in Nara: Sanjo Dori and Surrounding Streets
Most of Nara’s shopping scene is concentrated around Sanjo Dori, just a five-minute walk from JR Nara Station. This 1-kilometre long street connects the station to the Kofukuji Temple and Sarusawa Pond, leading you straight to the heart of Nara’s shopping district. The street is lined with souvenir shops, bars, restaurants, and even ryokan accommodations, making it a perfect stop for both shopping and relaxing.
Traditional Souvenirs and Handicrafts
If you’re looking to take home a piece of Nara’s rich cultural heritage, you’ll find traditional handicrafts and local goods scattered throughout the shopping areas. Popular items include calligraphy brushes, known for their fine craftsmanship, and Nara Sarashi, a traditional cotton fabric used for various items such as towels and handkerchiefs.
For a fun and quirky souvenir, look for products featuring deer or monks, or even monks dressed as deer, as these unique items are popular among visitors.
Local Delicacies to Take Home
No visit to Nara is complete without trying some of the area’s distinctive food products. Narazuke, a pickle fermented with sake, is a local delicacy that can be found in several stores along Sanjo Dori. If you’re a fan of sushi, be sure to try kaki-no-hazushi, a Nara specialty that’s worth bringing back to share with friends and family.
One of the most popular food-related items you’ll come across is mochi, the sweet and chewy rice cakes that are a staple of Japanese cuisine. On Sanjo Dori, there’s a shop specializing in mochi balls, and visitors can watch the traditional mochi-pounding ceremony (Mochitsuki) being performed in the street—an experience you won’t forget!
Sake: A Nara Specialty
Sake is another local specialty in Nara. Several shops in the main shopping areas offer a variety of sake options, including unique blends that are only available in the region. You can also visit the sake brewery located in the old town of Naramachi, where you can sample and purchase some of Nara’s finest sake.
Shika-Senbei: A Treat for the Deer
When in Nara, it’s impossible to miss the friendly sika deer that roam freely throughout the city. One of the most popular treats for these deer is the shika-senbei rice cracker. These crackers are sold at several stalls around Nara Park, and visitors can hand-feed them to the deer, providing an unforgettable experience. Shika-senbei is primarily designed as a deer treat, and are probably not that tasty for humans.
Exploring Nara’s Hidden Gems
Beyond Sanjo Dori, Higashimuki Shopping Street (leading to Kintetsu Nara Station) and Mochiidono Shopping Street (which heads south toward Naramachi) are also home to more local shops, offering everything from unique crafts to delicious street food. Be sure to explore these hidden gems for more shopping options.
