Nara: A Journey Through Japan's First Capital

Where is Nara?

Central Nara Area

About 10 minutes by local bus or 20 minutes by walking from Nara Station.

Nara Park

Nara Park is a huge park in central Nara. You can visit any of Nara's main attractions including Todaiji, Kasuga Taisha and Kofukuji. It is also home to hundreds of freely roaming deer. You can get deer crackers for sale around the park, and enjoy feeding them.

Todaiji Temple

Todaiji is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with deep historical roots. It is one of Japan's most historically significant and culturally important temples. Brace yourself for a wow moment as you step into the temple, and you will see a massive bronze Buddha, which is absolutely breathtaking!

Kasuga Taisha Shrine

You can enjoy the beautiful vermilion-lacquered shrine pavilions and lanterns there. Kasuga Taisha Shrine was built in the 8th century to pray for the protection of Heijo-kyo where was the ancient capital and the prosperity of the people. Every year on February 3rd, August 14, and August 15, as many as 3000 lanterns light on the grounds of Kasuga Taisha Shrine as Shinto ritual.

Horyuji Temple

Horyuji Temple, located in Ikaruga, Nara, Japan, was established in 607 AD by Prince  Shotoku. It is one of the oldest surviving wooden structures in the world. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Horyuji Temple is not just a historical marvel but also a spiritual sanctuary and a must-visit destination for those seeking a deep connection to Japan's cultural and religious roots.

Yoshino Area

About 2 hours from Nara Station by trains.

Mt. Yoshino

Mt. Yoshino is famous for its stunning cherry blossoms in spring and fall leaves in fall. In July 2004, the sacred sites and pilgrimage routes from Mt. Yoshino and Mt. Koya to Kumano were registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as “Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range.”

Kinpusenji Temple

Kinpusenji was originally built in the 7th century and rebuilt by the donation of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who was a Japanese samurai and daimyō of the late Sengoku period in 1590. The temple is part of the UNESCO World Heritage.

Totsukawa Area

About 2 hour 30 minutes from Nara Station by taxi.

Totsukawa Hot Spring

It is known as a "real hot spring”. This is an extremely luxurious hot spring made possible by the abundance of hot water in Totsukawa Village. In addition, Totsukawa hot spring has the qualities of "hot water for beautiful skin. You can truly relax with the luxurious hot spring there.

© the Nippon Communications Foundation

Tanize Suspension Bridge

You can feel the beautiful nature on the longest suspension bridge in Japan. It is a symbol of Totsukawa Village and built by the villagers in 1954.

Nara captivates with its deep history and serene beauty. From free-roaming deer to ancient temples, it offers a unique glimpse into Japan's soul, making every visit unforgettable.