$379 Cheap Flights to Nara

Flights to Nara at a glance

Traveling to Nara is easy—simply choose between full-service and budget airlines. Compare journey times and select the option that best fits your budget and schedule, allowing you to explore the iconic sights and neighborhoods of Nara Prefecture while enjoying affordable airfare to Nara.

• Major airports near Nara: Kansai International Airport (KIX), Itami Airport (ITM), Kobe Airport (UKB)
• Closest airport to Nara: Itami Airport, ITM (around 22 miles)
• Flights per week: 1,400+ flights arriving across Nara airports
• Number of airlines that fly to Nara: around 50+ carriers

Popular airports near Nara

Nara is a charming city perfect for family outings, outdoor adventures, and urban exploration. Visitors flock to this destination for its rich culture, family-friendly activities, and entertainment options. Conveniently, Nara is accessible via three major airports, making travel planning straightforward for those looking to visit.

• Kansai International Airport (KIX): Situated in Sennan District, Osaka Prefecture, approximately 36 miles from Nara, this airport caters to both domestic and international flights. It connects travelers to around 4 domestic cities and over 115 international destinations. Passengers can opt for business class, first class, or premium economy seating for enhanced comfort, depending on the airline and route. Major airlines include Japan Airlines, United, and Asiana Airlines.
• Itami Airport (ITM): Found in Hyogo Prefecture and located about 22 miles from Nara, Itami Airport provides services for both domestic and international travel. It links around 15 domestic cities and 30 international locations, with options to upgrade to business class or first class for a more comfortable journey, depending on the route and airline. Key carriers operating here include Japan Airlines, All Nippon Airways, and American Airlines.
• Kobe Airport (UKB): Located in Hyogo Prefecture, around 33 miles from Nara, Kobe Airport offers both domestic and international flight options, connecting to 2 domestic cities and 6 international destinations. This airport is served by popular airlines such as All Nippon Airways, Korean Air, and Starlux Airlines, providing travelers with convenient access to various locations.

Top routes to Nara

• Los Angeles (LAX) to Nara (KIX/UKB/ITM), with one-way flights starting at around $340
• Tokyo (HND/NRT) to Nara (KIX/UKB/ITM), with one-way tickets available from around $45
• Seoul (GMP/ICN) to Nara (KIX/UKB), with one-way tickets available from around $65
• San Francisco (SFO) to Nara (KIX/UKB/ITM), with one-way flights starting at around $370
• Naha (OKA) to Nara (KIX/UKB/ITM), with one-way flights starting at around $50

Cheapest routes to Nara

• Cheongju (CJJ) to Nara (KIX), with affordable one-way prices from around $40
• Tokyo (HND/NRT) to Nara (KIX/UKB/ITM), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $45
• Naha (OKA) to Nara (KIX/UKB/ITM), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $50
• Sapporo (CTS) to Nara (KIX/ITM), with cheap one-way fares from around $60
• Seoul (GMP/ICN) to Nara (KIX/UKB), with budget one-way fares from around $65

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Nara

• Japan Airlines: This airline services Kansai International Airport (KIX) and Itami Airport (ITM), contributing about 19% of arrivals to Nara. One-way fares generally average around $480, with premium service options including premium economy, business, and first class based on the route.
• All Nippon Airways: Operating flights to Kansai International Airport (KIX), Kobe Airport (UKB), and Itami Airport (ITM), this airline accounts for roughly 12% of arrivals to Nara. The average one-way ticket price is about $500, with premium cabin selections such as premium economy, business, and first class available depending on the route.
• United: This carrier operates to Kansai International Airport (KIX) and Itami Airport (ITM), representing around 11% of Nara's arrivals. Average one-way fares are approximately $600, with premium options that may include premium economy and business class, contingent on the route.
• Asiana Airlines: Providing service to Kansai International Airport (KIX), Asiana accounts for about 7% of arrivals to Nara. The average one-way fare is around $600, with business class available as a premium service option based on the route.
• Jetstar Japan without bag: This low-cost airline flies into Kansai International Airport (KIX), making up about 6% of arrivals to Nara. Average one-way fares are roughly $110, catering to budget-conscious travelers.

Best time to fly to Nara

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Nara are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Nara can reach up to 55.9°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 74.5°F. For better deals, January usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $342, roughly 17% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? February offers an average one-way fare of around $359, making it a good option for flexible travelers.

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to Nara

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Nara is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Nara hotel and flight deals.
4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Nara flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Nara

Nara welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Nara efficiently:

• Public transportation: From Kansai International Airport, Kansai Airport Station, a train station, is located about 0.1 miles away by walking, while Hineno Station, a metro station, is approximately 8.6 miles from the airport and is best reached by car.
• Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Nara, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance.
• Car rental: Renting a car in Nara is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Nara on Expedia.
• Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay around Nara

• Sango: Nestled 10 miles drive away from Nara, Sango is a delightful city that offers a blend of culture, wellness, and family-friendly experiences. Visitors can unwind at local onsens and hot springs or enjoy a day at the amusement park. Key highlights include the romantic Osaka Castle, the culturally rich Horyu-ji Temple, and the modern Tsutenkaku Tower, making Sango an excellent choice for those seeking both relaxation and exploration.
• Katano: Located 10 miles drive away from Nara, Katano is a vibrant city perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. With a variety of shopping areas and entertainment venues, it offers plenty of options for a fun day out. Don’t miss the historic Osaka Castle for a romantic outing, the spacious Expo ’70 Commemorative Park for outdoor activities, and the thrilling Hirakata Park, ideal for family adventures and excitement.
• Kizugawa: Kizugawa, situated 4 miles drive away from Nara, is a charming city that caters to families looking for outdoor activities in an urban setting. Explore the beautiful Nara Park, which is perfect for leisurely strolls and family outings. Immerse yourself in history at the impressive Todaiji Temple and visit the serene Kasuga Shrine for a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Kizugawa offers a great balance of nature and city life.

Tips for short-haul flights to Nara

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

• Pack light and skip checked bags—when flying with budget airlines, it's often more economical to travel with just a carry-on. Optimize your packing by using travel-sized toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothing, and coordinating outfits efficiently. This also allows you to bypass the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
• Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may not provide in-flight entertainment options. Download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book to keep yourself engaged. Remember to fully charge your devices before you board.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it’s advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to departure, taking into account traffic and security lines.
• Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Nara

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

• Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines often provide complimentary seat selection once online check-in opens, typically 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines even allow seat selection earlier than this.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—aim to be at the airport at least 3 hours prior to departure for international flights, allowing ample time for check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
• Relax at the airport—if you have extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, find a coffee shop, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is generally free and available.
• Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by changing your watch and modifying your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Try to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time of your arrival to help minimize jet lag.

Tips to find the cheapest flights to Nara

The cheapest day to fly

Get started finding a cheap flight to Nara on Expedia by either choosing a deal on this page or entering into the search bar your travel dates, origin airport, and whether you want roundtrip or one-way airfare. You can filter for flexibility, number of stops, airline, and departure/arrival times to find the best flight for you.

The cheapest month to fly

September is the cheapest month to fly to Nara. This coincides with the low season when fewer people travel. Whichever month you travel in, though, be sure to book at least a month in advance if you want to score cheap tickets to Nara. ARC's data shows that domestic flights booked 28 days or more before departure are typically 24% cheaper than those booked last minute.

The most affordable time to book a flight

Typically, a Sunday can be the cheapest time to book a flight to Nara, according to ARC’s data. On average, you could save between 6% and 13% by booking on a Sunday instead of a Friday, which is the most expensive day to make a reservation.

The cheapest round-trip tickets to Nara

The lowest price for round-trip flights to Nara in 2026 starts from $814, while one-way tickets start from from $379. Expedia's effective search tool is one of the best ways to find a budget airfare. Simply enter your dates, and within seconds, it'll show you a vast selection of the cheapest flights to Nara. If you have a preferred departure time or airline, you can use the handy filters to customize your search.

The cheapest airlines flying to Nara

Air Canada, United, Delta, Korean Air, All Nippon Airways are just some of the airlines that can typically offer cheap tickets to Nara. You can find their most affordable flights by using the “airline” search filter and then sorting prices from low to high. As a trusted partner of the world's leading airlines, Expedia offers you some of the best airfare deals to Nara and countless more destinations worldwide.

The most affordable airports to fly into

To view the cheapest airports to fly into for Nara, simply order your search results from lowest to highest price. Expedia's search tool compares flight prices for all airports close to your destination, so you don't have to manually search them one by one to find the cheapest flight to Nara. If you have a preferred place to fly into, take advantage of the “arrival airport” filter to narrow down your search on Expedia.

Save with a package

With Expedia's amazing package deals, you could save hundreds of dollars by booking your Nara plane tickets together with your accommodations, car rental, or activities. Just select the search wizard's “package” option to view some of the cheapest deals. Look out for the green savings label to see how much you're saving.

Date flexibility for the cheapest flights to Nara

If you can be flexible with your travel dates, it's a good idea to broaden your search by comparing prices on different days. This will open up more options, meaning you could uncover a less expensive flight to Nara.

Stopover savings

The cheapest tickets to Nara are sometimes those with a stopover. Book one of these flights, and you'll change planes at an airport en route to Nara. While the overall travel time might be longer than a non-stop flight, you may decide it's worth it for the money saved.

Get Expedia's Price Drop Protection

Price Drop Protection means that if your flight gets cheaper after booking, you'll be credited the difference*. This gives you peace of mind that you're getting one of the cheapest flights to Nara for your chosen departure. Expedia's Price Drop Protection is available for a small fee but is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

*Terms apply.

Use our Price Tracking feature

Expedia's Price Tracking feature is another great tool that removes the guesswork from finding cheap flights to Nara. Simply download the free Expedia app to your smart device and activate Nara flight price alerts for your travel dates. There's even a price predictor tool that uses historical data to indicate the best time to book, giving you peace of mind that you'll nab the lowest prices.

Book with Expedia

As well as Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking, Expedia's close partnership with a vast selection of the world's leading airlines means you're sure to find cheap flights to Nara. Plus, the One Key rewards program lets you earn real cash rewards on most bookings that you can use to save money on future trips. Best of all, it's free to join, and members often unlock exclusive discounts, too.

Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.