Discover the Spiritual Heritage of Japan

Todai-ji Temple, founded in 728, is home to one of the world’s largest bronze statues of Buddha—standing an impressive 15 meters tall.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is not only a spiritual center of Buddhism, but also an architectural marvel. Witness the grandeur of the Great Buddha Hall (Daibutsuden), once the largest wooden building in the world.
Admission: ¥800 for adults / ¥400 for children

A Magical Realm Where Lanterns and Rituals Come to Life

Founded in 768, Kasuga Taisha Shrine is famous for its thousands of bronze and stone lanterns.
These lanterns are fully lit only twice a year during the Mantoro Lantern Festival.
As you walk along the mossy path, you may feel as though you’ve stepped back in time to an era when priests and samurai once walked these sacred grounds.

Discover the Spiritual Heritage of Japan

The Ukimido Pavilion is a picturesque hexagonal wooden structure that appears to float on the surface of Sagi Pond.
Originally built for Buddhist meditation, it is now one of the most photogenic spots in Nara.

A Vast Park Where You Can Meet the City’s Iconic and Adorable Deer

Spanning over 500 hectares, Nara Park is one of the city's most popular attractions, home to around 1,000 freely roaming deer. It offers visitors the chance to interact with these deer, considered sacred messengers of the gods in Shinto tradition. You can purchase special deer crackers (shika senbei) to feed them and enjoy the sight of the deer bowing politely in return.

Panoramic View of Nara and a Spectacular Fire Festival

Standing 342 meters tall, Mt. Wakakusa offers sweeping views over Nara City, including landmarks like Todai-ji Temple, Kofuku-ji Temple, and Nara Park.
Every January, the Yamayaki Fire Festival takes place, when the entire hillside is set ablaze in a breathtaking spectacle that lights up the night sky.
Admission: ¥150 for adults / ¥80 for children

A Tranquil Pond Reflecting the History of Nara

Sarusawa Pond sits just in front of SETRE NARAMACHI, offering a stunning view where the five-story pagoda of Kofuku-ji Temple and graceful willow trees are reflected in its still waters. This poetic scene, known as one of the Eight Scenic Views of Nara, has inspired poets and artists for centuries. At night, the illuminated pagoda casts a magical reflection on the water, creating a dreamlike atmosphere.

A Historic Temple Embodying Noble Taste and Elegance

Kofuku-ji has stood for over 1,300 years as a symbol of the power and sophistication of the influential Fujiwara clan. Its iconic five-story pagoda, one of Nara’s most famous landmarks, is the second tallest of its kind in Japan. Although the pagoda is currently under restoration, visitors can still admire the majestic Tokondo Hall and explore the National Treasure Hall, which houses some of the finest masterpieces of Japanese Buddhist art.

A Historic District Preserving the Atmosphere of the Edo Period

Once a bustling merchant area, Naramachi is a maze of narrow lanes that transports visitors back to the Edo period. Many of its traditional buildings have been repurposed as museums, teahouses, sake breweries, and hands-on craft workshops, offering a rich and immersive experience of Japanese culture

Visit One of Japan’s Oldest Buddhist Temples

Founded in the 6th century, Gango-ji is one of Japan’s oldest Buddhist temples and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its most remarkable feature is its roof tiles—some of which date back over 1,400 years—making them among the oldest architectural materials in Japan. These tiles tell the story of Nara’s deep historical roots.

A Treasure Trove of Japanese Buddhist Art

For those interested in history and art, the Nara National Museum is a must-visit destination.
It houses one of Japan’s finest collections of Buddhist sculpture, paintings, and crafts, offering deep insights into the spiritual and artistic heritage of ancient Japan.