When Nara was the capital of Japan from 710 to 784 it was called Heijokyo, a city that was considered the cradle of Japanese culture. Nara was also home to Buddhism’s finest temples, and much of the time’s grand buildings still stand today and have been registered on the UNESCO’s World Heritage List as an irreplaceable part of the cultural heritage of all humanity.
Nara
About Nara
Nara was Japan’s capital from 710 to 784. Today, it serves as the capital of Nara Prefecture and is one of Japan’s most culturally significant…
Naramachi
Naramachi is the historic district of Nara, once home to merchant residences and shops that lined the narrow streets within the former grounds of a…
Nara City Museum of Photography
The Nara City Museum of Photography, also known as the Irie Taikichi Memorial Nara City Museum of Photography, is a must-visit destination for photography enthusiasts…
Nara National Museum
One of the more outstanding art museums in Japan, the Nara National Museum specialises in Buddhist arts and is located in the world famous Nara…
Nara Park
Established in 1880, Nara Park was designated a scenic spot in 1922 and remains a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Japan’s former capital. Situated at…
Kasuga Grand Shrine and Garden
The Kasuga Grand Shrine (also known as Kasuga-taisha) was founded in 768 AD by the powerful Fujiwara family around the time when Nara was Japan’s…
Todaiji Temple
Also spelled as Tōdai-ji Temple, Todaiji Temple is a Buddhist temple originally founded by Emperor Shōmu to enshrine the Great Image of Buddha Vairocana. Completed…
Kofukuji Temple
Also spelled Kōfuku-ji or Kohfukuji, Kofukuji Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with origins dating back to 669 AD, when the temple was first…
Nara Shopping
Nara is not only known for its stunning temples and parks but also for its delightful shopping opportunities. Whether you’re searching for unique souvenirs, local…
Getting around Nara
Nara is a popular tourist destination in the Kansai region, and being under an hour from Osaka and Kyoto, it makes for a perfect day…