Nara, situated in south central Honshu, is one of Japan’s most historically significant cities. It served as the capital of Japan from 710 to 794, and it is home to some of Japan’s most well-known temples and landmarks.
In this blog post, we’ll take a journey through time in Nara and discover some of the city’s must-visit landmarks and temples.
Todai-ji Temple
Todai-ji Temple is among the most famous temples in Japan and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple houses the world’s largest bronze statue of Buddha, which stands more than 50 feet tall. The temple complex also includes a charming garden and several other buildings. Guest can also see the Nara National Museum, which is located near the temple and features an extensive collection of Buddhist art.
Kofuku-ji Temple
Kofuku-ji Temple was originally built in 669, and it was one of the most important temples in Japan during the Nara period. The temple was rebuilt several times over the years and restored to its former glory. The temple complex includes multiple buildings, including a five-story pagoda, which is one of the tallest in Japan.
Nara Park
Nara Park is a large public park that is the sanctuary to over 1,000 wild sika deer. The deer are considered sacred and are safeguarded by the city. Guests can buy deer crackers to feed the deer, and it is not uncommon to see them wandering around the park and even bowing to visitors. The park is also home to several important temples and landmarks, like Todai-ji Temple and Kasuga-taisha Shrine.
Kasuga-taisha Shrine
Kasuga-taisha Shrine is one of the most famous Shinto shrines in Japan and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The shrine was founded in 768, and it is dedicated to the deity responsible for the defense of the city. The shrine is well-known for its hundreds of bronze and stone lanterns, which are lit twice a year during the lantern festival.
Isui-en Garden
Isui-en Garden is a traditional Japanese garden set up in the Edo period. The garden boasts a large pond, several small streams, and a teahouse. Tourists can stroll around the garden and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The garden is very beautiful during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.
Conclusion
Nara is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Japanese history, sight-seeing, and culture. From the powerful Todai-ji Temple to the peaceful Isui-en Garden, there is something for everyone in Nara. So if you’re planning a trip to Japan, be sure to go to Nara and take a journey through time in this historic city.