Nara was the oldest capital of Japan (710-784), and was the cradle of Japanese culture, arts and crafts.
Buddhism first flourished here under the strong patronage of successive Emperors. Walking through the city's
quiet streets is like strolling through the pages of history. Here, you can find peace of mind and spiritual contentment.
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Sightseeing Spots
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Todaiji Temple (9:00-16:30)
Founded by Emperor Shomu to enshrine the Great Image of Buddha (Vairocana
Buddha) and as the General Head-temple of all provincial temples in Japan It was
completed in the year of Tempyo Shoho (752 A.D.), and a lavish ritual dedication
ceremony was held. Unfortunately, fire destroyed the edifice twice, and the present
structure, which was rebuilt In the Edo period (in 1692), as scaled down to two-
thirds of the original size.
Nevertheless, it Is the largest wooden building In the world and the magnificent
structure is sure o fill its visitors with awe.
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Kasuga Grand Shrine (9:00-16:00)
Generally believed to have been founded by the Fujiwara Family (the most powerful
imperial court nobles in the Tempo period ), to their tutelary deity, after the capital
was moved to Heijo (present-day Nara) The architectural style of the sanctuary Is
called the "Kasuga style", because of the characteristic shape of its roof. The surrounding
vermilion corridors, filled with bronze hanging lanterns, and surrounded
by a thick, green grove, create an elegant atmosphere.
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Kofukuji Temple (9:00-17:00)
With the establishment of the new capital at Heijo (present-day Nara) in the third
year of Wado (710 A.D.), the Umayasaka Temple was moved from Asuka to its present
site and was given its present name. In addition to the five-storied pagoda,
which is well known as a symbol of Nara, various buildings and historic Buddhist
statues remind us one of the long, impressive history of this temple.
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Nara Park
A huge wasteland area was made into a park in 1880 and was designated as a
place of scenic beauty in 1922 In the area between Mt.Wakakusa and Mt.Kasuga,
such famous temples and shrines as Kofukuji. Todaiji and the Kasuga Grand Shrine
are located There is no doubt that such scenic spots, with their special integration
of history and nature, are to be seen nowhere else The gentle deer, which are
one of the symbols of Nara, present a pleasant scene of serenity .
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Nara National Museum (9:00-16:30)
A museum specializing in Buddhist arts, stands in Nara Park.
The West Gallery being the original building was opened in 1895, while the East
Gallery was constructed in 1973 Apart from the regular exhibition of Buddhist relics
such as sculptures, paintings, applied arts, calligraphy, and archaeological objects,
there are also a special exhibition in May and an exhibition of treasures from the
Shoso-in for two weeks in the fall.
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=More Information=
Nara City Special Guide (Nara City Tourism Section)
Photo by Nara City Tourism Section
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