Cultural Experiences

While Kyoto grabs most of the attention from tourists, Nara could be said to be much closer to the hearts of the local Japanese. Its foremost attractions are the Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara, registered together as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These include ancient religious sites such as Yakushi Temple, Kokufu Temple, Kasuga Grand Shrine, and the entirety of Mt. Kasuga Primeval Forest. Another well-regarded attraction is Heijo Palace Historical National Park, which is open to the public and has faithful reconstructions of parts of Nara's imperial palace.

For travelers who wish for something more casual yet still authentic, feel free to walk around Nara's old neighborhoods and check out the many shops in machiya houses with Nara's style of architecture. Nipponia Hotel Nara Naramachi, as a former brewery building, also offers tours of Toyosawa Sake Brewery which fans of the rice wine should not miss out on.

Bowing (ojigi): It's advisable to bow to show respect when greeting someone. It can also be done to show gratitude or convey an apology.
Shoe etiquette: You must remove your outside footwear before stepping on the elevated area of the genkan (entrance) and entering a house. You should also ensure not to step on the lower area of the genkan without your shoes on. Shoes must be kept facing the entrance. If you wear socks, they should be clean and without any holes.
Slipper etiquette: It's usually better to wear fresh socks or slippers inside the house, especially for formal situations. Make sure to remove your slippers before stepping into a room with tatami mats on the floor. There should also be a separate set of slippers for the washroom.
Dining etiquette: How you hold and place your chopsticks while dining is crucial. For example, they shouldn't be held upright when eating rice. You must also place them on a holder when you're not using them. It's good to say "Itadakimasu" before starting a meal and "Gochisousama deshita" after completing it.
Tipping etiquette: Tipping isn't a common practice in Japan and may be considered rude.
Luggage etiquette: Luggage, especially those with wheels, should be carried instead of being dragged across the floor as it might damage the tatami mats or wooden flooring.
Photography etiquette: Photography rules can change from place to place, so make sure to check for signs or ask the staff before taking pictures anywhere.
Queueing etiquette: Make sure to maintain queues and never cut in line.
Onsen etiquette: Some onsens don't allow tattoos, so check with the staff before getting into one. You must also shower and be clean before entering a shared onsen bath.
Bathing etiquette: Japanese baths include separate areas for washing while the tub itself is meant only for soaking. This means bathers must first wash, scrub, and rinse themselves before entering the bath tub.