The best museums in Nara in January 2026

These are the top 10 best museums in Nara, Japan, ranked by their rating and popularity in 2026. Click a museum for more information about the museum, including visitor information, exhibitions and reviews.

For a complete overview of museums in Nara, their exhibitions and discount cards & passes, see our overview page with all museums in Nara.

Looking for the best museums in Nara? These are the best ones:

  1. Manyo Botanical Garden1

    Manyo Botanical Garden

     Nara
  2. Naramachi Karakuri Toy Museum2

    Naramachi Karakuri Toy Museum

     Nara
    Opened in 2012, this museum invites all children to come and play with their collections of traditional Japanese toys. Suitable for adults as well.
  3. Naramachi Museum3

    Naramachi Museum

     Nara
    Visit this quaint museum if looking for information about Nara, its history, and local culture.
  4. Neiraku Museum4

    Neiraku Museum

     Nara
    Located in the heart of Nara, a city in central Japan, the Neiraku Museum is an art museum that offers a unique cultural experience. It provides an opportunity to explore a wide range of art pieces, making it an interesting destination for art enthusiasts and tourists alike.
  5. The Museum Yamato Bunkakan5

    The Museum Yamato Bunkakan

     Nara
    The Yamato Bunkakan is a private museum situated in the city of Nara, Japan. It was inaugurated in the year 1960 and has since been a significant site for the appreciation of East Asian art. The museum's location in Nara, a city known for its rich historical and cultural heritage, adds to its appeal for tourists.
  6. Kofukuji Temple  National Treasure Museum6

    Kofukuji Temple National Treasure Museum

     Nara
  7. Irie Taikichi Memorial Museum of Photography Nara City7

    Irie Taikichi Memorial Museum of Photography Nara City

     Nara
    The Irie Taikichi Memorial Museum of Photography Nara City is a museum dedicated to photography that opened its doors in 1992. It is located in the city of Nara, Japan, and is a significant cultural institution in the region.
  8. Buddhist Art Library- Nara National Museum8

    Buddhist Art Library- Nara National Museum

     Nara
  9. Nara Prefectural Museum of Art9

    Nara Prefectural Museum of Art

     Nara
    The Nara Prefectural Museum of Art, located in Nara, Japan, was established in 1973. This museum has been a significant cultural institution in the region for nearly half a century, offering visitors a chance to explore a wide range of art pieces.
  10. Irie Taikichi Historic Residence Museum10

    Irie Taikichi Historic Residence Museum

     Nara

All museums in Nara