About
Nara is a city in Nara Prefecture, in Japan's Kansai Region. It served as Japan's first permanent capital, and its historical past is still visible in the temples and parks that visitors come to see. The city is also known by the names 奈良, Nara-shi and Heijō-kyō.
What to see
Nara Park is the city's best-known landscape, and it is home to free-roaming deer that wander among visitors. It makes a relaxed first stop, whether you want to walk slowly or simply watch the animals.
Todai-ji Temple is the highlight for many people. Its giant bronze Buddha is the reason many travellers include Nara in their plans. The temple grounds give a clear sense of the scale of the old capital's religious life.
The city also has a number of well-preserved historical temples, so a day here can easily be spent moving from one to the next on foot.
What kind of visit it makes
- A day trip or an overnight stay, with much of the main sights close together
- A slower, historical visit, suited to people interested in early Japanese capitals and Buddhist architecture
- A pairing with other places in the Kansai Region, which is easy to reach from larger cities nearby
Nara is a UNESCO World Heritage site, which reflects the value placed on its historic temples and their setting. If you enjoy unhurried walks, old architecture and the company of deer, it is a place worth considering for your Kansai itinerary.
