[2025 Update] Go directly to Mount Wakakusa! Take a bus to Nara's scenic spots

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.

Starting in November 2025, the Wakakusa Hilltop Bus will begin operation. This will provide direct access to the summit of Mount Wakakusa. You can easily and comfortably get to the summit of Mount Wakakusa!

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 making a reservation in advance (pay by cash or transportation IC card)

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

The service will run on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays from November 1, 2025 to March 29, 2026.

*Please note that the service will be suspended on December 14th, January 1st, January 3rd, January 4th, and January 24th.

It runs 4 minutes a day. For more information, please click here .

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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