Nightlife in Nara

Nightlife in Nara offers a unique and different after-dinner experience from many other cities, with relaxed and refined teahouses, sake bars and even shops selling fresh fruit smoothies. Nara may be outshone by its bigger neighbours like Osaka and Kyoto when it comes to after-dinner options. However, in line with the small and ancient capital’s heritage, a relaxed izakaya or bar is within easy reach, serving great Japanese beer and sake. While you can find neighbourhood bars to drink and party all night, the real attraction is experiencing the authentic local culture. Head for the Nigatsu-dō and Kasuga Taisha region for a small teahouse with a thatched roof called Mizuya-chaya. Here you can enjoy delicious food and drinks in a romantic setting. At Nara Izumi Yūsai in Naramachi, you'll find a standing bar with tastings of over 120 varieties of sake from nearly 30 makers.

For refined and more traditional experiences, head for Steak Ciel Bleu at Nara Park for surf and turf. You can have craft cocktails served up by an award-winning bartender at Lamp Bar, also in Nara Park. Finally, in Naramachi you can experience a quiet and refined wine bar called Salon des Vins Seve. In the heart of Nara, there’s a good selection of classy bars that are perfect for unwinding after a day out exploring the city’s wonderful temples. The shopping street near Kintetsu Nara Station and Naramachi Street are good places to start.