Head to Wakakusayama, Nara's most scenic spot! Approximately 30 minutes from JR Nara Station and Kintetsu Nara Station!

2026.06.02

Starting April 1, 2026, the "Wakakusa Hilltop Bus" will begin daily service to the summit of Mt. Wakakusa! With multilingual information and walking maps available, international visitors can use the service with ease.

Apply for the "Wakakusayama Direct Bus"

• Table of Contents
• What is Mount Wakakusa in Nara like?
• Access to Mount Wakakusa
• Recommended points of the Wakakusa Hilltop Bus
• Operation period and fares
• A panoramic view of over 180 degrees! We also recommend visiting Mount Wakakusa in the evening.
• Wakakusayama direct bus stop

What is Mount Wakakusa in Nara like?

Mount Wakakusa is located in the eastern part of Nara and is one of Nara's most famous landmarks. It is a grassy hill 342 meters above sea level with a gentle slope and is home to deer. From the summit of Mount Wakakusa, you can enjoy views of Nara and the city of Nara, including the Great Buddha Hall. Enjoy the magnificent views and the opportunity to interact with the lazy deer.

Access to Mount Wakakusa

[Normally] you would have to take a bus to the base of the mountain and then walk up from there. The bus routes are complicated and confusing, and the route varies depending on the day of operation and the stops, making it difficult for many tourists. The walking route can take more than 30 minutes and requires physical strength.

[With the Wakakusa Hilltop Bus] It takes about 30 minutes from JR Nara Station or Kintetsu Nara Station to the mountaintop. You can also hike down on your return trip, making it perfect for those who want to sightsee in Nara efficiently!

Recommended points of the Wakakusa Hilltop Bus

Recommended point 1: Everyone is seated, so you can relax. We will take you directly to Mt. Wakakusa by private bus.

Recommended point 2: Multilingual automated voice guidance, recommended for foreign visitors

Recommended point ③ If there are seats available on the day, you can board without prior reservation (payment can be tap to pay with a transportation IC card, contactless credit card, or cash).

Recommended point 4: You can disband at the summit of Mt. Wakakusa and hike down the mountain

Apply for the "Wakakusayama Direct Bus"

Operation period and fares

Operating period: Daily from April 1, 2026 to December 12, 2026.

There are four bus services per day. For details, please check here.

	adult	Children
Fare (round trip)	2,000 yen	1,000 yen

A panoramic view of over 180 degrees! We also recommend visiting Mount Wakakusa in the evening.

The evening view from the summit of Mount Wakakusa is a fantastical sight, with a sense of openness overlooking the Nara and a sky dyed crimson. The ever-changing colors of the sky and the tranquil scenery are truly moving.

Wakakusayama direct bus stop

①JR Nara Station (East Exit) Platform 4

②Kintetsu Nara Station Sightseeing Bus Stop

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