Nara is one of the most important historical cities in Japan. As well as being the country’s first permanent capital, it is also home to not just one, but eight UNESCO World Heritage sites. In addition, it houses the largest number of buildings designated as National Treasures in the country. Despite its prized possessions, it doesn’t get as much tourist attention as its culture-rich neighbor, Kyoto. However, Nara is a brilliant gem worth visiting, especially if you are exploring the Kansai region of Japan.
One of the notable landmarks of Nara is the Daibutsu, also known as the Great Buddha. Located inside the great temple of Todai-ji, the Big Buddha is indeed a very impressive site. Regarded as one of the largest wooden structures in the world, the Todai-ji Temple is one of the main attractions in Nara. It receives visitors every day from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Another UNESCO heritage site that impresses and fascinates visitors is the Horyu-ji Pagoda. With five levels, this is the oldest pagoda in the country and the oldest surviving wooden building in the world. An excellent feature of Horyu-ji is the Golden Hall or Kon-do, whose origins date back to 670 AD.
If you want to explore more temples and pagodas, head to the 600-year-old Kofuki-ji Temple, which also has five floors. It is the second tallest pagoda in the country, at about 50 meters. The original temple came from Kyoto, but it was moved here during the 8th century. The Kofukuji Pagoda is a symbol of resistance in Nara, as it was rebuilt and exists today despite having been burned 5 times throughout history. The pagoda is open to visitors daily from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. M. At 5:00 p. M.
Like most of Nara’s highlights, you can find Kofuki-ji and Todai-ji within Nara-koen Park. If there is only one place in Nara that your time allows you to visit, it should definitely be Nara-koen (Nara Park). The park is a great hiking destination due to its vast green area. But it won’t be a strenuous hike as you can actually take a leisurely stroll through the grassy park.
Nara Park is home to the mercenary deer or Sika Deer, so don’t be surprised if you see several during your walk. The deer population is highly respected because, according to legends, they are sent under the protection of the god of the Kashima shrine. These days, tourists are allowed to feed deer crackers called Shika Senbei. After visiting the temple in the park, consider heading to the lively and colorful Higashimuki shopping street. Located next to Kintetsu Nara Station, this famous shopping street, stretching 250 meters, entertains people with its wide range of shops and restaurants.
The city of Nara is so compact that you can explore most of it in a short time, which is why most tourists who are based in Kyoto take a day trip to Nara. This day trip itinerary is made even more convenient due to the excellent express train service linking both cities. The trip to Nara from Kyoto usually takes less than an hour via the Miyakoji express service. The other interesting parts of the city include the western section called Nishinokyo and the southwest section called Ikaruga.