OK, it’s time to escape! I know exactly where you should go for fun in the sun in one of the most inspiring havens in all of Japan. If you’ve been searching for the perfect Nara travel spot and somewhere Instagram-worthy where you can reconnect with nature and creativity, then the Morou Art Forest (室生山上公園芸術の森) is the place for you.
If this isn’t your first time reading my articles, you already know that I love art, nature, and inspiring spaces. If it is, welcome! You’ll quickly learn that I’m obsessed with anything that blends creativity with beautiful scenery. For more inspiration, check out a few of my past articles:
While searching for the ultimate mix of art and nature in Kansai, I discovered the ever-so-lovely Morou Art Forest in Nara.
The Morou Art Forest in Nara Prefecture was created by world-renowned sculptor Dani Karavan. He designed contemporary outdoor works that invite visitors to walk, touch, and experience art with all five senses. His goal was to create spaces where art, humans, and the natural environment could harmonize.
Over time, other Japanese artists and creators contributed to the project, bringing even more creativity and meaning. Together, they shaped this modern utopia—a true cultural landmark that combines regional development, artistic innovation, and natural beauty.
Walking through this forest feels like stepping into a dream where art and nature blend seamlessly. Personally, I believe people often forget the importance of creativity and nature in their busy everyday lives. This forest was built as a reminder to slow down and reconnect.
OK, getting to this forest is a little tough if you do not have a car. Luckily, I was able to get a ride from someone who offered, but even so, from Umeda to this forest it’s a two-hour and 30 minute drive. The journey isn’t for the weak of heart, but whether you’re driving or taking the train, a good playlist, a book in hand, and comfort in traveling long distances is always a plus.
I’ll attach the picture from the pamphlet on the access on how to get there. (Sorry, it’s a little dirty after being stuffed in my purse for so long haha). You can see that after the bus ride, you may need to walk about 20 minutes. So be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
Would I recommend visiting? 10/10—absolutely! The Morou Art Forest is the kind of place you should visit when you’re feeling stressed, unmotivated, or just stuck in life. Sometimes, you need to escape into art and nature to refresh your spirit.
I really believe experiences like this are what you make them. Go in with an open heart, and you’ll come away feeling renewed.
As I wandered, I listened to the sound of cicadas all around me. Did you know cicadas only live about a week, and during that week, they spend all their time searching for a mate? That thought sparked a deep conversation with my friend about how we’d live our lives if we only had seven days left.
Later, we stopped for a mini pudding break (yes, I brought milk pudding as a thank-you for my ride). Sitting on a monument, eating sweets, and just existing in the moment felt magical.
Would you look at that line?! Some areas even had photo lines because of how Instagram-famous the sculptures are! We skipped them this time but it’s ony my list for next time. Surprisingly, there were a lot of foreign visitors—maybe even more than Japanese visitors.
Toward the end, I left a little handwritten note at the ticket area (where you enter and exit on the main side). They also had books and other small displays you could browse. It felt like leaving behind a tiny piece of myself in this creative space.
There is so much more to this trip that I didn’t list, but you’ll have to go and check it out for yourself.
You’ll walk a lot, so wear sneakers or super comfortable loafers. (Mini Tip: Check out Honeys or Atta Grl in Japan—cute, comfy, and durable shoes that can handle long walks!)
Bring snacks or even a light lunch. The forest does have vending machines, but nothing beats enjoying your own treats while sitting among the art installations.
This is one of the most Instagrammable spots in Nara. Don’t miss out on capturing your favorite sculptures and nature shots.
If you’re going in the summer like we did, just be sure to have everything you need to avoid heat stroke. That means green tea and/or water, the salty-sweet snacks that fight off heat stroke, a towel to wipe your sweat, a fan, an umbrella, etc.
Engage all five senses within reason while you are there. I made sure to touch things in the area, like monuments and nature by picking up a stick and swinging it around like a child haha. Make sure to breathe it allin, bring something yummy to taste, listen to the cicadas, and use all five senses to enjoy this forest.
I know you’ll love going to the Morou Art Forest in Nara as much as I did. Just keep my tips in mind and really give yourself a couple of hours to enjoy this special forest. I hope that this article and everything I had to say can be a bit of inspiration for you to not just feel a little more motivated in life, but to take a mini day trip/ breather from your regular life.
I’m looking forward to catching you in the next article, and be sure to stay happy, safe, and creative in the meantime.
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