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Nara Prefecture is one of the birthplaces of Japan’s history and culture, and as the country’s oldest capital, it is home to many historical buildings.
At Nara Park, deer have been protected as messengers of the gods for centuries, and today about 1,000 deer roam freely. Within the park, you’ll find the UNESCO World Heritage site Todai-ji, where you can admire the giant Buddha statue in one of the largest wooden structures in the world. Also, at Kasuga Taisha Shrine, the beautiful vermilion buildings are surrounded by countless lanterns, creating a mystical atmosphere.
In addition, you can enjoy strolling through Naramachi, a traditional district that has preserved its old-town charm, where you can visit cafes and shops housed in renovated merchant homes.
For nature lovers, Mount Yoshino, tucked away in the mountains, is one of Japan’s most famous cherry blossom spots, offering breathtaking beauty in spring.
Experience the perfect blend of history and nature in Nara, and enjoy a leisurely journey through time.
PickUp Nara Events
Todai-ji Omizutori The “Omizu-Tori” at Todai-ji is part of the Buddhist event called “Shunie,” which takes place every year from March 1st to 14th at the Nigatsu-do Hall in Nara. This tradition has been carried on for over 1,250 years. “Shunie” is a ceremony where prayers are offered for peace and abundant harvests.
The main event of “Omizu-Tori” happens on the night of March 12th, when clear, sacred water, known as “Kouzui,” is drawn from the Wakasa well and presented to the Kannon deity. Another highlight is the “O-Taimatsu,” which takes place every night. Large torches are carried through the corridors of Nigatsu-do, creating a magical scene as sparks fly into the night sky.Image search for「東大寺お水取り」
A musical tour exploring Nara through songs.
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Discover and Enjoy Nara! A Guide to Must-Visit Spots & Topics. Todai-ji Temple Todaiji Temple, located in Nara City, is one of Japan’s most iconic temples, with a history of over 1,300 years. Inside the Great Buddha Hall, you’ll find the statue of the Great Buddha (known as ‘Nara no Daibutsu’), which stands at about 15 meters tall. The Nandaimon Gate is guarded by the powerful Kongorikishi statues, and from the Nigatsu-do Hall, you can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the city of Nara. In 1998, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Nara Park “Nara Park” is a vast park located in the heart of Nara city, home to famous UNESCO World Heritage sites like Todai-ji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and Kofuku-ji Temple. The park is also known for its wild deer, which have been revered as messengers of the gods for centuries. In spring, the cherry blossoms are stunning, and in autumn, the colorful foliage adds to the park’s beauty. It’s a perfect spot where nature and historical landmarks come together in perfect harmony throughout the seasons.
Horyu-ji Temple Horyu-ji Temple is located in Ikaruga Town and is believed to have been founded in 607. It is a temple closely associated with Prince Shotoku. Home to the world’s oldest wooden structures, it was the first site in Japan to be designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple grounds are divided into the Western and Eastern precincts, where you can find many national treasures and important cultural properties, including the Five-story Pagoda, the Golden Hall, and the Yumedono (Hall of Dreams). It’s known as a place where you can fully experience Japan’s Buddhist architecture and rich history.
Mount Yoshino Yoshinoyama is a sacred site for Shugendo and one of Japan’s most famous cherry blossom spots. The mountain’s ridge stretches for about 8 kilometers and is divided into areas called “Shimo-senbon,” “Naka-senbon,” “Kami-senbon,” and “Oka-senbon.” In spring, around 200 different types of cherry trees bloom across the entire mountain, creating a breathtaking scene known as “Ichi-moku-senbon,” meaning “a thousand cherry trees at a glance.” The view from Yoshimizu Shrine, in particular, is exceptional. The area is also home to historic temples and shrines like Kinpusenji, adding to the charm and cultural significance of the place.
Asuka Village Asuka Village is a historically significant area where Japan’s capital was located from the late 6th to the 7th century. The village is home to several notable historical sites, including the Ishibutai Tomb, believed to be the burial site of Soga no Umako, Asuka-dera, Japan’s oldest authentic Buddhist temple, and Kitora Tomb, famous for its wall paintings of the Four Guardian Deities. It’s a place filled with ancient charm and history.
Wakakusa Mountain Wakakusayama is a beautiful mountain known for its lush, grassy slopes that cover the entire peak. From the summit, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Nara city. Every January, the mountain is set ablaze during the “Wakakusayama Fire Festival,” where the whole mountain is engulfed in flames. With an elevation of 342 meters and gentle slopes, it’s also a popular spot for hiking.
Omiwa Shrine The Omiwa Shrine (大神神社, Omiwa Jinja) is one of Japan’s oldest shrines, and its sacred object of worship is Mount Miwa itself. Unlike most shrines, it doesn’t have a main hall; instead, worshippers directly face Mount Miwa from the worship hall. This unique style of faith is one of its distinguishing features. The shrine is also believed to bring blessings for love, relationships, and marital harmony.
Kashihara Jingu Shrine Kashihara Jingu Shrine is dedicated to Japan’s first Emperor, Emperor Jimmu, and his empress. It is known for its vast grounds and majestic atmosphere. Every year on February 11th (National Foundation Day), the “Kigen-sai” (Empire Foundation Festival) is held, attracting a large number of visitors.
Tenkawa Village & Dorogawa Onsen Amakawa Village and the Dogawa Onsen area are known as a sacred site for Shugendo, offering a charming mix of historic ryokan (traditional inns) and a quaint hot spring town. At night, the lanterns light up, creating a magical, almost otherworldly atmosphere. Nearby, you’ll find Mount Omine and the Mitarai Gorge, where you can enjoy stunning views throughout all four seasons.
Kofuku-ji Temple Kofuku-ji Temple, located within Nara Park, is a UNESCO World Heritage site home to a stunning collection of Buddhist statues, including the National Treasure, the Ashura statue. The Five-story Pagoda is an iconic symbol of Nara. The temple grounds also feature the Eastern Golden Hall and the Central Golden Hall, making it a must-visit highlight for anyone interested in history and art during their Nara sightseeing tour.
