【Nara, Japan: A First-Timer's Guide to 7 Must-See Attractions】
Asia•Japan
76
Published at 09/26/2024
Contents
When you hear the name Nara, Japan, what springs to mind? Perhaps it's the idea of wandering through picturesque parks and meeting the friendly local deer, or maybe it's the thought of visiting ancient, sacred temples. We've put together a list of the top 7 attractions in Nara, featuring the famous Todai-ji Temple and the stunning Kasuga-taisha Shrine. This guide is perfect for first-time visitors looking to explore the enchanting former capital with ease!
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1. Todai-ji Temple
If there's one place that truly captures the essence of Nara, it's Todai-ji Temple. This iconic site boasts the largest wooden building still standing in the world today. Inside, you'll find the awe-inspiring Great Buddha Hall, home to a magnificent 15-meter tall statue of the Vairocana Buddha, often called the Great Buddha of Nara. The sheer presence of this statue fills the hall with a sense of reverence and peace. Flanking the Great Buddha are impressive 12-meter tall Nio guardian statues and an 8-meter pedestal, along with a collection of intricate Buddhist sculptures that are a feast for the eyes. Don't miss the "Heart Pillar" behind the Great Buddha Hall – legend has it that those who can squeeze through the hole in its center are blessed with good fortune and long life.
Getting There:
- From JR Nara Station or Kintetsu Nara Station, it's a scenic 20-minute stroll through Nara Park to reach your destination.
- Alternatively, hop on the Nara Kotsu bus via the "City Loop" line and get off at either the "Great Buddha Hall Main Gate" stop or the "Kasuga Taisha Shrine Main Hall" stop for a direct arrival.
2. Kasuga-taisha Shrine
When you find yourself in Nara, a visit to Kasuga-taisha Shrine is an absolute must. This iconic shrine stands proudly alongside Todai-ji and Kofuku-ji as one of the city's top attractions. Tucked away against the backdrop of lush mountains, the shrine is enveloped by ancient, towering trees that give it a truly mystical vibe. The main hall, recognized as a national treasure, is a sight to behold, and the over 3,000 stone lanterns that surround it create a magical atmosphere, especially when they light up at night. A trip to Kasuga-taisha Shrine is more than just a chance to marvel at stunning ancient architecture; it's also a moment to seek blessings for academic success, harmonious relationships, and good fortune in all areas of life.
Getting There:
- From Kintetsu Nara Station, it's about a 30-minute walk through the scenic Nara Park to reach your destination.
- Hop on the Nara Kotsu Bus on the "City Loop" line and get off at either "Kasuga Taisha Omotesando" or "Kasuga Taisha Honden" stops.
Entry: Visiting the shrine is free, but if you want to check out the National Treasure Hall, it’s 500 yen for adults.
3. Hōryū-ji Temple
Hōryū-ji Temple, a celebrated ancient landmark in Nara, is famed for its iconic five-story pagoda and the Eastern Golden Hall. This pagoda, the oldest of its kind in Japan, stands out with its vibrant vermilion hue and commanding presence. The Eastern Golden Hall, a National Treasure, houses three revered Buddha statues: Amida Nyorai, Yakushi Nyorai, and Shakyamuni Buddha, offering a serene and majestic ambiance. Moreover, the Northern and Southern Round Halls are home to an impressive collection of precious Buddhist sculptures, making them a must-see. Wandering through the serene, timeworn corridors of Hōryū-ji feels like a journey back in time, immersing you in the rich Buddhist heritage of Nara.
Getting There:
- Walking from JR Nara Station or Kintetsu Nara Station takes about 15 minutes.
- Alternatively, hop on the Nara Kotsu Bus "City Loop" line and get off at "Kofuku-ji" Station.
4. Nara Park
Welcome to Nara Park, a sprawling urban oasis covering about 660 hectares. This park is a treasure trove of historical sites and beautiful scenery, making it one of the must-see spots in Nara. But what really sets it apart is the over 1,200 wild sika deer that call this place home. These deer are considered sacred messengers of the gods, so they roam freely and are well cared for. They're incredibly friendly and love interacting with visitors. For just 150 yen, you can buy special deer crackers to feed them and get an up-close look at these adorable creatures.
Beyond the deer, Nara Park has plenty more to offer. Hike up Wakakusa Mountain for breathtaking views of Nara City, explore the fascinating exhibits at the Nara National Museum, or visit the serene Tamukeyama Hachiman Shrine. Each spot has its own unique charm and is definitely worth your time.
Getting There:
- The park is just a short 5-minute stroll from either JR Nara Station or Kintetsu Nara Station.
- Alternatively, hop on the Nara Kotsu bus on the "City Loop" line and get off at stops like "Todai-ji Daibutsuden Gate," "Kasuga-taisha Omotesando," or "Kofuku-ji."
5. Todai-ji Temple
Step back in time to the Nara period with a visit to Todai-ji Temple, founded by the Tang monk Jianzhen. This stunning temple is celebrated for its straightforward yet graceful architecture and an impressive collection of national treasures. As you wander through the three-story pagoda and the main hall, you'll be captivated by the intricate mud sculptures and carvings of celestial beings and bodhisattvas, giving you the sensation of being in an artistic palace. The temple also boasts numerous sutras personally penned by Jianzhen, along with various ritual implements, all of which are of immense commemorative and research value. A trip to Todai-ji Temple is not just an immersion into the deep Buddhist heritage of Nara but also a fascinating peek into the historical cultural exchanges between China and Japan.
Transportation: Getting there is a breeze! It's just a 20-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station. If you prefer, hop on the Nara Kotsu bus on the "Saidaiji" line and get off at "Tōshōdai-ji" Station.
6. Heijo Palace Ruins
Step back in time with a visit to the Heijo Palace Ruins, once the political heart of the Nara period. Today, this historic site has been transformed into a beautiful park that's open to everyone. As you wander through the vast grounds, you can still make out the layout of the old palaces and government buildings. There are sand tables, restoration models, and various displays that give you a clear picture of the architectural style from the Tang Dynasty. The site also boasts a relic exhibition hall, the serene East Garden, and the impressive Suzaku Gate. It's a place rich in history and perfect for a leisurely stroll. And if you visit between late October and early November, you’re in for a treat—the Heijo Palace ruins host a maple leaf festival, lighting up the night with nearly 500 lanterns, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere.
Getting There:
- Hop on the Nara Kotsu bus "Heijo Palace Site" line from JR Nara Station and ride it to the end of the line.
- If you're coming from Kintetsu Nara Station, catch the Nara Kotsu bus "City Loop" line and get off at "Nijo Dori South Entrance." From there, it's just a 10-minute stroll.
7. Hase-dera Temple
If you're looking for a picturesque spot near Nara City, Hase-dera Temple is a must-visit. This temple is famous for its breathtaking autumn foliage and stunning wisteria blooms. From mid-April to early May, the temple grounds are adorned with 30,000 wisteria flowers, turning the area into a dreamy sea of purple. Come mid-November, the maple leaves take over, painting the mountain temple in vibrant shades of red.
Hase-dera is also home to an impressive wooden statue of the Eleven-Headed Kannon and boasts Japan's most celebrated cedar-lined path. Perched on a hillside, the temple offers visitors fantastic views of the Yamato Sanzan mountains and the Nara Basin from its main hall platform. Whether you're a nature lover or a history buff, Hase-dera Temple has something magical to offer.
Transportation: If you're heading from Kintetsu Chikuhōji Station, it's just a breezy 15-minute stroll to reach your destination.