The procession starts at noon on Dec 17
The festival runs Dec 15–18, but the Owatari procession is on Dec 17 from noon to about 14:30. It sets out near Nara Prefectural Office and proceeds through central Nara toward the Otabisho. Use the current official map for exact viewing points and the route.
Choose a stretch of the Owatari procession
Choose the stretch that interests you: the departure near Nara Prefectural Office, the procession through town, or its arrival at the Otabisho. Use the current official map to pick a viewing point, then match your bus and walking route from JR or Kintetsu Nara Station.
Prices depend on the viewing area
For Dec 17, the special seats are ¥2,000 at Noborioji Park, ¥5,500 for the south Matsunoshita seats, ¥5,000 for the north seats, and ¥10,000 in front of the Otabisho. Reservations close Dec 14 at 17:30. Check each seat's viewing window and weather-related restrictions.
Take a bus from Nara Station and check the last train
From JR or Kintetsu Nara Station, the bus to Kasuga Taisha Honden takes about 11–15 minutes. The city-loop bus to Kasuga Taisha Omotesando is followed by a 10-minute walk. Evening rites at the Otabisho run to about 22:30, so check your return service if you plan to stay.