The city of Nara, located about 45 km south of Kyoto, was the capital of Japan in the 8th century. It was in Nara that Buddhism and Buddhist culture flourished. If you are interested in grandiose Buddhist architecture or Buddha statues, Nara will be an impressive and unmissable site. Kyoto and Nara are two cities with a rich heritage. But compared to the chic-looking Kyoto, visiting Nara will allow you to taste a rather peaceful and bucolic landscape. For what ? This will be obvious when you come across animals roaming freely in the park covered with carpets of greenery.
The city of Nara is located in the north of the prefecture. I describe the recommended historic landmarks or neighborhoods around Nara Park, western downtown and Nara suburbs.
Around Nara Park
Historic Buddhist and Shinto temples dot Nara’s sprawling park. You will be able to appreciate many national treasures and cultural properties classified as magnificent. In addition, you can have fun with the deer that roam freely there. Their cute pupils will leave you with an unforgettable memory.
West of the City Center
The site of the imperial palace of the ancient capital which celebrated its 1300èmeanniversary in 2010 extends to the west of downtown. It will also be interesting to visit the sights which have kept their old appearance.
Nara Suburb
If you have plenty of time, how about continuing your visit to the suburbs of Nara? The temple which brings together the oldest wooden buildings in the world, the peaceful and nostalgic view of the villages, the mysterious stone monuments, the charming old quarter or the temples in the mountains will welcome you. This will allow you to discover another side of Nara’s charm.