basic information

Japan's first permanent capital was established in the year 710 at Heijo, the city now known as Nara. As the influence and political ambitions of the city's powerful Buddhist monasteries grew to become a serious threat to the government, the capital was moved to Nagaoka in 784.

Nara is located in the Kinai plain, less than one hour from Kyoto and Osaka. Due to its past as the first permanent capital, it remains full of historic treasures, including some of Japan's oldest Buddhist temples.

Attractions

Central Nara

Todaiji Temple (2) Large temple with a big Buddha statue. Nara Park (1) Central city park with wild deer. Kasuga Taisha (5) Nara's most celebrated Shinto shrine. Kofukuji Temple (4) Family temple of the Fujiwara Clan. Naramachi (8) Former merchant district with old houses.

West of Central Nara

Horyuji Temple (3) The world's oldest wooden buildings. Yakushiji Temple (7) Large temple in western Nara. Toshodaiji Temple (6) Large temple in western Nara.

best of the best    best of Japan    outstanding (1) - (99)    most visited attractions

Orientation

Access and Orientation How to get to and around in Nara. About transportation in Japan

Accommodation

Sponsored Listings:

Asukaso A fine ryokan with hot spring bath offering views of the famous five-story pagoda. Located in the heart of Nara town. Hotel New Wakasa 5 min walk to Todaiji Temple and Great Buddha. Wireless Internet in lobby. Rooftop open-air Jacuzzi. Private onsen baths.

Search a Hotel in Nara:

From 12345678910111213141516171819202122232425262728293031 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec 2009 2010 for 1 night 2 nights 3 nights 4 nights 5 nights 6 nights 7 nights from JAPANiCAN AsiaRooms.com Hostel World Japan Hotels Online More about accommodation in Japan

Tours and Packages

Nara Tours Various tours and travel packages for Nara and surroundings.

Any advice or questions? Voice them in the forum!

news and reports

Nara Cherry Blossom Report April 3, 2009

travel community

Users who have been to Nara: 887
Most visited: Ranked 4th out of 106 destinations

Rating by users:		highly recommended (91/100, 495 votes)
Rating by staff:		highly recommended
Overall Rating:		best of the best

User Feedback We constantly strive to keep japan-guide.com up-to-date and accurate, and to find ways to improve the user experience. If you have any updates, suggestions, corrections or opinions, please let us know:

question forum

Nara Temples open on Ocean day?

1 reaction

updated 4 hours ago

english links

japanese links