Route Overview
This article introduces the touring route along the Nara Okuyama Driveway, which winds through Mt. Wakakusa, Mt. Takamado, and the Kasugayama Primeval Forest in Nara City.
The total distance is about 13 km, making it a short but scenic toll road. Riders can enjoy sweeping views of Nara City, lush forests, and even sunset and nightscapes from Mt. Wakakusa.
The route offers a unique blend of ancient history and natural beauty, as it passes through parts of a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Recommended Riding Section
The best section is from the Mt. Wakakusa summit to the Takamado-yama Viewpoint via the Shin-Wakakusayama Course.
The view from the summit is breathtaking, and the road is smooth with gentle curves.
The Noborioji Course follows an old forest path and offers a mystical atmosphere but features narrower roads that require careful riding.
Road Conditions and Safety Tips
The road surface is mostly in good condition, with widths ranging from 4 to 6 meters.
However, be cautious on the Noborioji Course, where narrow lanes and blind curves are common.
Watch out for wild deer that may cross the road suddenly.
Speed limits are between 30–40 km/h, and the road is shared with pedestrians and tourists.
Note: Motorcycles under 125cc are not allowed.
Suggested Stopovers
Scenic Viewpoint: Mt. Wakakusa Summit (panoramic view over Nara Basin)
Famous Spot: Kasugayama Primeval Forest (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Rest Area: Mt. Wakakusa Parking Lot (benches, vending machines)
Local Food: Try Kaki no Ha Sushi (persimmon-leaf-wrapped sushi) or Miwa Somen noodles in nearby shops
Toll Fees and Rental Info
The Nara Okuyama Driveway is a toll road. Motorcycle fees are as follows:
- Motorcycles (125cc and up): ¥530 for full route (Shin-Wakakusayama + Noborioji Courses)
- Shin-Wakakusayama Course only: ¥420
- Noborioji Course only: ¥210
Rental bikes are available near JR and Kintetsu Nara Stations.
Typical prices: from ¥5,000/day for 125cc–400cc bikes (reservation required)
Best Season and Climate
Best seasons are spring (April–June) and autumn (October–November).
In spring, enjoy cherry blossoms and fresh greenery. In autumn, vibrant red leaves line the route.
Summer is relatively cool at higher altitudes, but bugs are active in the evening.
In winter, the road remains open, but morning frost may occur—ride with caution.
Food and Rest Spots
Near the route, you’ll find charming cafes and food stalls around Mt. Wakakusa and Nara Park.
Recommended spots include Yume-Fu Hiroba and tea houses near Todai-ji Temple for snacks and local sweets.
Touring Plan Examples
Day Trip: Nara Station → Visit Todai-ji → Ride Noborioji Course → Mt. Wakakusa Summit → Takamado Viewpoint → Explore Naramachi
(Approx. 4 hours including breaks)
Overnight Plan: Stay in Nara City → Next morning, head to Yoshino or Mt. Miwa for extended touring
Access
The starting point, Nara Park, is about 10 minutes by bike from JR or Kintetsu Nara Station.
By car or motorcycle, it takes about 1 hour from Osaka or 1.5 hours from Kyoto.
Rental shops are available along Omiya Street and near Nara Station (reservation recommended)