[Osaka-Nara 2Day Model Course] Travel and save with the KINTETSU RAIL PASS! Journey through the Four Seasons of Japan: 2 Days in Nara

The starting point of the journey is the Kintetsu Osaka-Abenobashi Station in Osaka. From here, take the Kintetsu Minami-Osaka Line to Yoshino, the final stop, which is about 1 hour and 32 minutes away. From Yoshino station, take the ropeway to Mount Yoshino.

Travel by the oldest ropeway in Japan, the Yoshino Mountain Ropeway, which opened in the early Showa period, to Mount Yoshino, which is also a World Heritage site. Enjoy a three-minute aerial stroll.

Mount Yoshino, located in the central part of Nara Prefecture, has been known as a famous cherry blossom spot since ancient times. About 30,000 cherry trees of approximately 200 species blossom in succession from the lower, middle, upper, and inner parts of the mountain, creating an overwhelming beauty like none other! In addition to cherry blossoms, you can also enjoy beautiful landscapes of hydrangeas, fresh greenery, autumn leaves, and more, making it this premier spot to appreciate the changing seasons.

After enjoying the scenic walk around Mount Yoshino, head to "Kakinohazushi Daiyo" for lunch. This popular place is known for its local delicacy, Kakinohazushi.

From June to September, they use fresh persimmon leaves from Yoshino (salted leaves from other regions are used in other seasons) to carefully wrap each piece of pressed sushi made with mackerel or salmon. During the cherry blossom season, you can enjoy their sushi inside the shop. On days with good weather, it's recommended to enjoy your Kakinohazushi outdoors, packed in a Yoshino cedar box.

Next on the itinerary is a visit to Kinpusenji Temple, which is a 6-minute walk from "Kakinohazushi Daiyo".

Kinpusenji Temple, a symbol of Mount Yoshino and the head temple of the Shugendo religion, has its Main Hall Zao-do and Niomon Gate registered as World Heritage sites as part of the "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range". The Main Hall, Zao-do, rebuilt in 1592, boasts a height of approximately 34 meters and each of the four sides of the platform measures 36 meters, making it the second-largest wooden structure after Todai-ji Temple's Great Buddha Hall in Nara. The temple's principal deities, three statues of Kongo Zao Gongen, can be viewed during special public viewings. Note: the Niomon Gate is undergoing restoration and will be disassembled until 2028.

After leaving Yoshino Mountain, take the Kintetsu train from Yoshino station to Osaka-Abenobashi station. Then head to Namba station on the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line in about 6 minutes.

Dinner time is one of the most awaited moments, and in Osaka's Namba, the choice must be "Kushikatsu", one of the representative dishes of Osaka cuisine! "Kushikatsu Daruma, Namba Honten", founded in 1929, is a popular Kushikatsu restaurant, known for its unique signboard. The secret sauce is exquisite and goes perfectly with the light and crispy breading of the Kushikatsu!

Start the second day off at Kintetsu Osaka-Namba Station. Travel for about 33 minutes on the Kintetsu Nara Line, and get off at Kintetsu-Nara Station. From the station, it's a 1-minute walk to "Kimono Rental Sakura."

Here you’ll take a stroll through the ancient city of Nara for the day. Take in all the authentic mood and vibes, and get into a rental kimono and hit the streets in traditional, Japanese style.

One large draw is the fact that everything from the kimono to the obi (belt) is included in a set, so you can come in empty-handed. Once you've chosen your favorite kimono and had it fitted, you can enjoy a stroll filled with an atmospheric vibe. It's recommended to make a reservation by 17:00 the day before.

Once you've transformed into kimono attire, it's time to start your town walk. The destination is "Naramachi," about a 13-minute walk away.

"Naramachi" is the old town of Nara, centered around the former grounds of the Gangoji Temple. This area is filled with charm, with a series of townhouses built from the Edo period to the Taisho era. Today, the area is bustling with cafes, restaurants, and general stores that utilize these traditional houses, making it a popular tourist destination.

Before exploring the retro town, stop by the "Naramachi Tourist Information Center" to get a tourist map.

At the eaves of the townhouses and shops, you'll see "Migawari Momo," a red doll talisman for warding off evil spirits. These can also be purchased at the privately run "Naramachi Museum," making them a recommended souvenir.

For lunchtime, enjoy a meal at the old house cafe "Kanakana", renovated from a townhouse that is over 100 years old.

The popular cafe "Kanakana" is one of the pioneering establishments in the bustling "Naramachi" area, known for its refined cafes and shops, and it makes use of a regenerated traditional Nara townhouse. The recommended dish here is "Kanakana Gohan." This is their most popular menu item, a set meal that changes weekly and includes several small bowls, dessert, and a soft drink.

In addition to table seating, there are tatami mat seats where you can take off your shoes and relax, providing a calm space for you to enjoy your meal or cafe time.

After the meal, continue your stroll through "Naramachi". It's just a 4-minute walk from "Kanakana" to your next destination!

Next, visit the long-established Wagashi (Japanese sweets) store, Nakanishi Yosaburo, founded in 1913. The delicate Japanese sweets made carefully by artisans are just like pieces of art! The visually pleasing sweets can also be enjoyed in the café, perfect for taking a break during your walk. They also hold a Wagashi making experience once a month, which is not to be missed.

The last stop of this trip is "Kakigori Houseki-bako". This is one of the most popular shaved ice shops in the Kansai region, located in a corner of Mochiidono Shopping Street, the oldest shopping street in Nara.

Their Espuma shaved ice has a fluffy texture like mousse, characterized by a light and smooth mouthfeel. They offer a unique menu of flavors using local Nara prefecture ingredients, such as matcha and fresh milk from nearby farms. The introduction of new flavors with each season is another fun aspect. It is recommended to make a reservation online in advance before visiting.