Nara

Nara

Nara is a peaceful destination filled with ancient treasures. Meet the friendly deer at Nara Park, visit Todai-ji Temple with its Great Buddha, and explore Kofuku-ji’s historic pagodas. As Japan’s first capital, Nara offers a quiet atmosphere where you can feel the origins of Japanese culture and spirituality.

From Tokyo: Shinkansen / Local train 2h 55m

From Osaka: Local train 40m

Nara

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Special recommendations handpicked by our team.

Nara Prefecture

Nara Prefecture

Nara Prefecture is the source of Japan's history and culture, having flourished as a former capital. Within the prefecture, numerous historical legacies forming the foundation of Japanese spiritual culture remain, including the World Heritage "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara," Horyu-ji Temple (the world's oldest wooden structure), and the mystical Mt. Yoshino. Unlike adjacent Osaka or Kyoto, quiet prayer spaces spread within rich nature, allowing visitors to forget time and immerse themselves in Japan's original landscape. For travelers wanting to experience the true depth of Japan through seasonal scenery, traditional crafts, and historic food culture, Nara is a special sanctuary that...

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Nara City

Nara City, the capital of Nara Prefecture, is an internationally colorful ancient capital that served as the center of Japan as "Heijo-kyo" in the 8th century. World-famous spots such as the Great Buddha of Todai-ji Temple (the city's symbol) and Nara Park (where thousands of deer play) are gathered within walking distance. In "Naramachi," where traditional townhouses line the streets, you can enjoy visiting sophisticated cafes and general stores while feeling the atmosphere of the Edo period. Providing peaceful time and deep emotion for both first-time international tourists and repeat visitors, this city is the ultimate sightseeing city where historical...

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Asuka Village

Asuka Village, in the southern Nara Basin, was the site of the capital during the 7th century when Japan's nation-building began; the whole village is overflowing with historical heritage so much it's called an "open-air museum." Mysterious historic sites like the "Ishibutai Burial Mound," "Takamatsuzuka Burial Mound," and Asuka-dera Temple (housing Japan's oldest Great Buddha) are scattered within peaceful terraced rice fields and rural landscapes. This village's unique calm time gives visitors nostalgia and deep peace. A journey feeling the breeze via rental cycle while touching Japan's historical mysteries, rich nature, and the gentle lives of locals is a luxury...

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Totsukawa Village

Totsukawa Village

Located at the southernmost tip of Nara Prefecture, Totsukawa Village is the largest village by area in Japan and a "hidden region" where untouched nature still remains. Approximately 96% of the village is covered in forests, with overwhelming scenery woven by steep mountains, deep canyons, and emerald green clear streams. Nature and faith live on here, with abundant "free-flowing hot spring" water and a part of the historic "Kumano Kodo" pilgrimage route passing through. The spectacular view from the massive "Tanise Suspension Bridge" and the silence of the "Hatenashi Settlement" offer an ultimate retreat, letting adventurous travelers wishing to touch...

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Top Landmarks

Must-visit iconic spots that define Japan.

Nara Park

"Nara Park," spreading across central Nara City, is a globally unique park where World Heritage sites like Todai-ji and Kasuga Taisha coexist with approximately 1,200 wild deer on a vast 660-hectare site. Deer have been cherished and protected as messengers of gods since ancient times, and their interaction with visitors to receive "shika-senbei" (deer crackers) boasts immense popularity as an Instagrammable spot among international travelers. The peaceful scenery woven by lush green lawns, historic temples, and adorable deer is truly the highlight of Nara tourism. It is a place where you can fully enjoy traditional Japanese culture and interaction with...

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Todai-ji Temple

Todai-ji Temple

"Todai-ji Temple" in Nara City is one of Japan's representative temples and a historical treasure registered as a World Heritage site. The biggest highlight is the "Daibutsuden" (Great Buddha Hall), one of the world's largest wooden structures, and the massive "Great Buddha of Nara" (Vairocana Buddha) seated inside, reaching about 15 meters in height. Its overwhelming scale and solemn beauty envelop all visitors in deep emotion. Furthermore, the precincts are full of attractions, such as the "Nandaimon Gate" guarded by massive Nio statues and "Nigatsu-do Hall" offering a panoramic view of the ancient capital. You can firsthand feel the history...

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Kasuga Taisha

Kasuga Taisha, enveloped in the deep forests of Nara Park, is a 1,300-year-old World Heritage site and one of the most prestigious shrines, enshrining the tutelary deities of the Fujiwara clan. The brilliant vermilion shrine buildings and approximately 3,000 stone and hanging lanterns within the precincts create a mystical view. In particular, the "Fujinami-no-ya" hall, which reproduces the sight of lit lanterns in a dark room, is immensely popular as a photo spot for international travelers. The forest within the precincts is protected as the "Kasugayama Primeval Forest," allowing visitors to feel sacred natural energy. It is a place that...

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Kofuku-ji Temple

Kofuku-ji Temple

Kofuku-ji Temple, at the entrance of Nara Park, was the family temple of the powerful Fujiwara clan and is a hall of Buddhist art housing numerous National Treasures. The Five-Storied Pagoda (a symbol of ancient Nara) and the massive reconstructed Central Golden Hall are just some of its highlights. In particular, the "Ashura Statue" in the National Treasure Museum fascinates people worldwide with its delicate and sorrowful expression, making it one of Japan's most famous Buddhist statues. The open precincts are unfenced and free to explore at any time, allowing visitors to experience the Nara-like atmosphere where history melts into...

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Horyu-ji Temple

Horyu-ji Temple

Horyu-ji Temple in Ikaruga Town was founded by Prince Shotoku in the 7th century and is Japan's first UNESCO World Heritage site. The Kondo (Main Hall) and Five-Storied Pagoda in the Western Precinct are the oldest surviving wooden structures in the world, treasures of humanity that have been preserved for over 1,400 years. The vast grounds house approximately 3,000 National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties, such as the Kudara Kannon statue and the Tamamushi Shrine, making it a "living history museum." Its architecture and art, reflecting a unique style merged from Western and Asian influences, tell the story of Japan's...

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Mt. Wakakusa

"Mt. Wakakusa," soaring 342 meters at the eastern end of Nara Park, is characterized by its gentle slopes covered entirely in grass. You can walk to the summit, from where the view is selected as one of the "New Three Major Night Views of Japan." A panorama of Todai-ji, Kofuku-ji, and the Nara cityscape spreads below, allowing you to realize the scale of the ancient capital. Every January, the traditional "Mt. Wakakusa Yamayaki" (mountain burning) event is held, where the power of flames scorching the night sky is overwhelming. It's a representative view spot in Nara where you can spend...

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Heijo Palace Site Historical Park

Heijo Palace Site Historical Park

"Heijo Palace Site" in Nara City is the site of the palace that was the center of Japan's capital, Heijo-kyo, 1,300 years ago. Registered as a World Heritage site, the vast grounds feature the majestically restored "Suzaku Gate" and "Daigokuden" (Former Audience Hall), allowing you to firsthand feel the grand scale of the ancient capital. In addition to buildings, there are exhibition halls where you can learn about the history of international exchange such as the Japanese missions to Imperial China, and beautiful reconstructed gardens, ideal for international travelers seeking intellectual journeys. Strolling through the meadow-like historic site under the...

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Yakushi-ji Temple

Yakushi-ji Temple

Yakushi-ji Temple in Nara City is the head temple of the Hosso sect, established by Emperor Tenmu to pray for the recovery of his consort from illness. The brilliant vermilion Kondo and West Pagoda landscape is as vibrant as a Dragon Palace, conveying the 1,300-year-old capital's splendor to the present. On the other hand, the "East Pagoda," the only structure existing since the foundation, boasts beauty praised as "frozen music" due to its complex and elegant layered roofs. The principal Yakushi Triad statues are considered masterpieces of Japanese Buddhist sculpture, their merciful expressions calming the hearts of visitors. Sutra copying...

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Yoshino Town

Located in central Nara, Yoshino Town is a historical town known as one of Japan's leading cherry blossom spots and a sanctuary for mountain worship. At the World Heritage "Mt. Yoshino," approximately 30,000 cherry trees bloom as if covering the entire mountain, and their overwhelming beauty continues to fascinate tourists from abroad. Flourishing as a base for Shugendo since ancient times, solemn temples like Kinpusen-ji are scattered about, and a sacred air drifts across the whole mountain. It's also famous as a production area for high-quality "Yoshino Cedar," where you can enjoy traditional forestry culture, beautiful wood crafts, and delicious...

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Ishibutai Burial Mound

Ishibutai Burial Mound

The "Ishibutai Burial Mound," symbolizing Asuka Village, is one of Japan's largest square tumuli, known for its unique appearance with an exposed horizontal stone chamber made of over 30 massive boulders. The total weight reaches about 2,300 tons, and how such giant rocks were transported in the 7th century remains a mystery. Once covered in earth, the stones remained after long years, earning the name from its stage-like shape. You can enter the stone chamber's interior and firsthand feel ancient technology and the scale of power in the massive, cool space. For travelers wanting to experience Asuka-period mysteries, it is...

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Local Stays

Charming inns and stays for your journey.

Nara Hotel

"Nara Hotel," standing on high ground in Nara Park, is a representative classic Japanese hotel founded in 1909 as the "Guest House of Kansai." The heavy wooden architecture, incorporating the Momoyama style by architect Kingo Tatsuno, exudes a unique elegance where East meets West. It has a history of hosting global VIPs such as Albert Einstein and Audrey Hepburn, with precious artworks and furnishings remaining throughout. Even non-guests can enjoy an elegant moment at the tea lounge while gazing at the beautiful garden, making it the best place for travelers wishing to experience the historical dignity and supreme hospitality of...

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Branciera Ishibutai

Branciera Ishibutai

Located right next to the Ishibutai Burial Mound, "Branciera Ishibutai" is a modern facility that harmonizes with the historical landscape. It serves as a base for local tourist information and a resting space, making it ideal for a break during your stroll. The building's design respects the surrounding nature and ancient sites, offering exceptional views of the Ishibutai area. With nearby shops serving local ingredients and traditional sweets, it makes exploring Asuka's history more comfortable and rich. It is a convenient spot for travel planning, enjoying modern convenience while immersing yourself in ancient romance.

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Sky Village

"Sky Village" in Totsukawa Village is an entirely new experiential outdoor facility created by a French owner, where you spend time on nets and suspension bridges stretched between forest trees. On aerial platforms several meters above the ground, you can read while listening to birdsong or sway in a hammock, feeling as if you are truly "floating in the sky." Unlike athletic activities seeking adrenaline, its purpose is harmony with nature and quiet relaxation, allowing you to feel the life force of Japan's deep forests with your whole body. It is highly recommended for making unforgettable memories in the hidden...

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Local Treasures

Discover hidden gems loved by locals.

Hase-dera Temple

Hase-dera Temple

"Hase-dera Temple" in Sakurai City is the head temple of the Buzan branch of Shingon Buddhism, long cherished as the "Temple of Flowers." Climbing the magnificent "Nobori-ro" (covered corridor) that seems to cling to the mountain reveals the National Treasure main hall. From the hall's stage, you can see seasonal views, with the beauty of peonies and cherries in spring, autumn foliage, and winter peonies being breathtaking. The massive principal image, "Eleven-headed Kannon Bosatsu Statue," stands over 10 meters tall, its divine appearance deeply moving visitors. Enveloped in traditional Japanese architectural beauty and vibrant natural colors, it is a sanctuary...

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Mitarai Valley

"Mitarai Valley" in Tenkawa Village boasts some of the finest beauty in the Kinki region, with its emerald green clear streams, massive rocks, and beautiful waterfalls. Promenades are well-maintained, allowing for a thrilling "aerial walk" from suspension bridges directly overlooking the canyon. The dynamic seasonal beauty is breathtaking: fresh spring greens, cool summer breezes, and autumn leaves that set the entire mountain ablaze. The mystical clarity of the water reaching the riverbed provides ultimate healing as a power spot for nature-oriented travelers wanting to escape urban bustle and feel the life force of Japan's rich waters with their entire body.

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Imai-cho, Kashihara

Imai-cho, Kashihara

"Imai-cho" in Kashihara City was constructed as a temple town during the Sengoku period and is the site of a commercial city that once flourished so much it was said, "70% of Yamato's wealth is in Imai" during the Edo period. About 500 traditional townhouses remain, and the entire district is designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, maintaining a spectacular view where time seems to have stopped in the Edo period. People still live here; walking through maze-like narrow alleys, one is struck by the beauty of magnificent stone walls and lattice doors born from...

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Muro-ji Temple

"Muro-ji Temple" in Uda City is an ancient Tendai sect temple nestled in silence surrounded by deep forests. Unlike Mt. Koya, which once prohibited women, it has long been known affectionately as "Nyoin Koya" (Women's Koya) for permitting women's worship. Delicate and graceful wooden buildings, such as the National Treasure Main Hall and Japan's smallest outdoor five-storied pagoda, stand in perfect harmony with the surrounding rich nature. Especially during the seasons of spring rhododendrons and autumn foliage, the precincts are beautiful like a painting. While being a place for strict training, its atmosphere somehow feels gentle, capturing the hearts of...

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Tanise Suspension Bridge

Tanise Suspension Bridge

A representative spot of Totsukawa Village, the "Tanise Suspension Bridge" is one of Japan's largest wire bridges for daily use, measuring 297 meters long and 54 meters high. Walking across the bridge suspended over the massive Totsukawa canyon offers a simultaneous experience of the thrill of swaying with each step and a panoramic view of the emerald green river surface below. The sensation of being enveloped by mountains and sky is truly like an "aerial walk." Courageously crossing to the other side reveals the lifestyle of deep mountain villages, a place where nature's grandeur and human wisdom merge for a...

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Explore by City

Discover hidden charms in each city and town through our visual map.

Kawakami Village

Kawakami Village

Kawakami Village, at the headwaters of the Yoshino River (Kino River) in central Nara, is the village of "Water's Source" protected by deep forests and pure water. Home to "Otaki Ryujin Lake," one of Japan's oldest man-made lakes, beautiful cedar forests of "Yoshino Forestry" with over 500 years of history spread around it. Mysterious waterfalls and limestone caves are dotted throughout, letting you directly feel natural energy. Facilities to learn about headwater life and forest culture are also extensive, popular with overseas travelers interested in ecotourism. Surrounded by crystal clear air and murmuring water, it's a special place to touch...

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Oyagyu Town

Located next to Yagyu Town, Oyagyu Town is a historical village known to those in the know, preserving even quieter satoyama scenes. Dotted throughout are Yamaguchi Shrine, once the tutelary deity of the Yagyu clan, and temples conveying historical depth despite their simplicity. Here exists the "authentic Japanese farming village" precisely because it hasn't been commercialized for tourism; the surrounding mountains and farm landscapes create an illusion that time stopped hundreds of years ago. For hikers on the Yagyu Highway, it is a precious area to escape bustle and listen only to their footsteps and natural sounds. It is a...

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Yagyu Town

Yagyu Town in eastern Nara City, known as the "Village of Swordsmen," is a land where Bushido and Zen spirits live on, having served as the base for the "Yagyu Clan," sword instructors to the Edo-period Shoguns. The legendary "Itto-seki" (split-in-two rock), said to have been sliced by Yagyu Sekishusai while fighting a Tengu, has recently become a holy site for fans worldwide as a model for a famous anime. The town retains a calm atmosphere conveying samurai culture, with Hotoku-ji (the Yagyu family temple) and the former Yagyu Domain Chief Retainer's Residence. Walking through quiet bamboo groves and mountain...

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Oyodo Town

Oyodo Town, connecting the Nara Basin and the mountains of Yoshino, is a fertile town known as the gateway to the World Heritage Mt. Yoshino and as the "Home of Pears." Especially in the pear orchards of the Oyada Plateau, white flowers cover the land in spring, and the area bustles with people enjoying the harvest in autumn. On the hills overlooking the clear streams of the Yoshino River, there are historical stages mentioned in the Manyoshu, as well as beautiful golf courses and campgrounds. It offers a pleasant landscape merging urban convenience with rich nature, making it a perfect...

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Shimoichi Town

Shimoichi Town, at the entrance to Mt. Yoshino, is a historical town that once flourished as a Yoshino timber and commerce hub, also known as the place where "disposable chopsticks" (waribashi) were first made in Japan. In the Edo period, it was so bustling it was called "Shimoichi Sen-ken" (a thousand houses), remnants of which can still be seen in the heavy townscapes. It is also a production area for "Shimoichi Persimmons," a famous autumn taste; trees laden with fruit symbolize the satoyama autumn. With traditional "hand-made washi" skills and many historic temples, it is a deep place to thoroughly...

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Nosegawa Village

Nosegawa Village

Nosegawa Village, adjacent to Mt. Koya in southwestern Nara, is one of Japan's least populated municipalities, a place where overwhelming "silence" and "mystery" are preserved. Famous for being prone to sea of clouds, the sight of mountains floating in a sea of white mist in the early morning is truly an other-worldly heavenly realm. The Kohechi route of the World Heritage Kumano Kodo passes through, with a sacred air where pilgrims purified their minds still lingering. Home to "Tatsuri Kojin," one of Japan's three major Kojin shrines, the high-altitude precincts offer views of the Kii Mountains. It is the ultimate...

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Yamazoe Village

Yamazoe Village

Yamazoe Village, in the Yamato Highlands of northeastern Nara, is a mystical and peaceful village featuring megalithic worship sites and beautiful tea plantations. Mysterious massive rocks like the "Ushigamine Iwaya Masugata" and "Mt. Kono," said to be related to stellar movements, allow you to feel the awe ancient people held for rocks and stars. At Mt. Kono, azaleas blooming in early summer and camping under starry skies are popular. It is also a production area for high-quality "Yamato Tea," with orderly tea plantations representing traditional Japanese beauty. It's a place for a spiritual satoyama experience of stones, stars, and greenery,...

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Kurotaki Village

Kurotaki Village

Kurotaki Village, located almost in the center of Nara and called the "Navel of Yoshino," is a village full of wood warmth surrounded by beautiful cedar forests and clear streams. Forests cover about 97% of the village, and traditional Yoshino forestry skills still live on. Centered around the roadside station "Yoshinoji Kurotaki," it features extensive outdoor spots for families, such as suspension bridge adventures and BBQ along beautiful mountain streams. The food culture utilizing mountain blessings like local "konnyaku" and "wild boar dishes" is also a major attraction. Spending time listening to the murmuring river in deep green mountains teaches...

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Mitsue Village

Mitsue Village, at the eastern end of Nara on the border with Mie, is a sacred land with legends that Princess Yamato-hime-no-mikoto placed her staff (mitsue) here while searching for a place to enshrine Amaterasu-omikami. The village symbol, "Mt. Mitsune," is famous for its beautiful "soft rime" in winter, attracting many hikers seeking the crystalline spectacular view of white trees. With streetscapes retaining remnants of a post town on the Ise Hon-kaido and campgrounds known for beautiful starry skies, it is an area where seasonal nature and legends resonate. It promises a soul-cleansing experience for those wanting to feel the...

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Takatori Town

Takatori Town in central Nara is a historical town that developed as the castle town of "Takatori Castle," one of Japan's three major mountain castles. The castle ruins atop the 584-meter summit currently have no buildings, but the massive stone walls convey its former majesty, praised as "Japan's best mountain castle" for appearing to float in the sky. The "Tosa Kaido" at the foot is lined with old townhouses since the Edo period; the "Townhouse Doll Tour" in spring is particularly charming for its warm atmosphere valuing regional tradition. It also has history as one of Japan's leading "medicine towns,"...

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Kamikitayama Village

Kamikitayama Village

Kamikitayama Village, in southeastern Nara, is a rugged yet beautiful village known as a training ground for Shugendo, with the World Heritage "Omine Okugakemichi" route passing through. It is a base for "Hakkaigadake," the highest peak in Kinki, and "Odaigahara," a famous scenic road. Odaigahara is a place where one can firsthand feel "Japanese natural mystery," with rich moss and standing dead trees created by being one of Japan's heaviest rainfall areas. Hot springs also well up in the village, allowing you to savor mountain blessings after a rigorous climb or drive. This land where untouched nature remains is a...

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Higashiyoshino Village

Higashiyoshino Village

Higashiyoshino Village, at the foot of the Daiko Mountains in east-central Nara, is a village of "aesthetics of silence" enveloped in clear streams and deep forests. It has history as the final site of the "Tenchu-gumi," pioneers of the Meiji Restoration, with many historic sites dotted throughout. It is also known as the place where the Japanese wolf was last sighted, its mystical image sparking visitors' imaginations. You can experience Japanese spiritual culture living with water through river activities at the clear "Takami River" or worshipping at the beautiful "Niu Kawakami Shrine (Nakasha)." It is ideal for those wanting to...

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Soni Village

Soni Village, located in the highlands of northeastern Nara, is a village of overwhelming scenery, counted among "The Most Beautiful Villages in Japan." The main highlight is the "Soni Highlands," where in autumn, the pampas grass as far as the eye can see shines like a golden carpet, attracting many travelers seeking mystical sunsets. Surrounding it are powerful rock walls like "Byobu-iwa" and "Yoroitake," offering dynamic beauty created by volcanic eruptions. With hot spring facilities available, you can heal your fatigue after hiking. It is a hidden gem of Shiga (Nara) where beautiful satoyama landscapes and grand nature coexist.

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Shimokitayama Village

Shimokitayama Village

Shimokitayama Village, at the southeastern tip of Nara, is a village where the beauty of water stands out, embraced by deep mountains of the Yoshino-Kumano National Park. The symbols "Ikehara Dam" and "Nanairo Dam" are known to anglers worldwide as sacred sites for black bass fishing. "Shimokitayama Sports Park," built looking up at a massive dam wall, features campgrounds and hot springs, making it ideal for outdoor experiences in nature. At night, a starry sky unseen in cities spreads out; the deep green forests and crystal-clear water provide ultimate refreshment and let visitors feel the life force of Japan's deep...

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Koryo Town

Koryo Town, in the central Nara Basin, is a romance-filled town with legends of being the setting of Japan's oldest story, "The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter" (Kaguya-hime's hometown). The town is dotted with many burial mounds, including "Suyama Burial Mound," one of Japan's largest scallop-shaped tumuli, conveying the power of ancient clans. It's also famous as one of Japan's top "Sock" production areas, passing traditional textile skills to the present. At the vast "Umami-kyuryo Park," seasonal flowers decorate historic sites, bustling with families enjoying picnics and strolls. It's an attractive area where the world of myth, beautiful parks, and...

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Yamatotakada City

Yamatotakada City

Yamatotakada City, in west-central Nara, is a vibrant commercial city that once flourished with cotton and textile industries. Along the Takada River flowing through the center, a magnificent cherry blossom tunnel continues for about 2.5 km in spring, and you can enjoy the mystical illuminated "Senbonzakura" (thousand cherries) at night. Dotted with lively shopping streets loved by locals and historic temples, its charm lies in feeling the "real Japanese daily life" not overly commercialized for tourism. With excellent transportation, it's convenient as a base for visiting nearby Asuka and Kashihara, allowing you to touch regional food culture and warm hospitality.

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Kashiba City

Kashiba City, in northwestern Nara, offers good access to Osaka and features a coexistence of a vibrant bedroom community and rich historical heritage. The National Natural Monument "Donzurubō" is a scenic spot where white tuff has been eroded into strange shapes, offering an other-worldly panorama of white rock surfaces. It also holds interesting geological stories, such as the culture of "Sanukite" stones mined from ancient Mt. Nijo. You can enjoy modern shopping spots and natural formative beauty simultaneously, making it a perfect base for travelers wanting to actively explore western Nara.

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Katsuragi City

Katsuragi City, at the western edge of the Nara Basin and foot of Mt. Nijo, is known as the "Birthplace of Sumo," recorded in Japan's oldest official history, "Nihon Shoki." The local "Taima-dera Temple" is a renowned site housing Japan's oldest stone lantern and National Treasures from the Hakuho period, a mystical place with legends of mandalas. Surrounded by lush mountains, peaceful rural landscapes spread, and in autumn, the sunset over Mt. Nijo dyes the town golden. With traditional agriculture and fermentation culture still active, it's a heartwarming area where the calm daily life unique to regional Japanese cities harmonizes...

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Gose City

Gose City, in the southwestern Nara Basin, is a historical town at the foot of the Katsuragi range associated with ancient clans like the "Katsuragi" and "Kamo." The "Katsuragi Kodo," one of Japan's oldest roads, passes through, with shrines serving as stages for Japanese mythology and beautiful terraced rice fields still carefully protected. In "Gose-machi," retaining the Edo-period townhouse atmosphere, traditional sake and soy sauce breweries line the streets for a slow stroll. A ropeway climbs to the Mt. Katsuragi summit, world-famous for its azaleas. It's a calm and attractive area where the world of myth and Japan's peaceful satoyama...

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Yamatokoriyama City

Yamatokoriyama City

Yamatokoriyama City, located in the northern Nara Basin, is a castle town that flourished around "Koriyama Castle," built by Toyotomi Hidenaga. Today, the castle ruins are known for their beautiful stone walls and cherry blossoms, perfect for historical strolls. Furthermore, this city is world-famous as the "City of Goldfish," with tanks and unique objects featuring swimming goldfish dotted everywhere, delighting visitors. Traditional indigo dyeing experiences and visiting cafes in old townhouses are also attractive. Located right next to ancient Nara, it is a fun town merging castle town vitality and unique goldfish culture, with discoveries at every turn.

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Kashihara City

Kashihara City, located in central Nara, is a historical stronghold known as the "Birthplace of Japan," where Emperor Jimmu, the legendary first emperor, is said to have ascended the throne. The city encapsulates various eras of Japan, from the grand Kashihara Jingu Shrine to Imai-cho, where over 500 Edo-period townhouses are preserved, and the Fujiwara-kyo Ruins, Japan's first full-scale capital. Beyond its historical depth, it offers modern conveniences like shopping malls, making it an excellent base for tourism. It is an energetic city that stimulates intellectual curiosity, allowing you to trace Japan's journey from its beginnings to the present day.

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Asuka Village

Asuka Village, in the southern Nara Basin, was the site of the capital during the 7th century when Japan's nation-building began; the whole village is overflowing with historical heritage so much it's called an "open-air museum." Mysterious historic sites like the "Ishibutai Burial Mound," "Takamatsuzuka Burial Mound," and Asuka-dera Temple (housing Japan's oldest Great Buddha) are scattered within peaceful terraced rice fields and rural landscapes. This village's unique calm time gives visitors nostalgia and deep peace. A journey feeling the breeze via rental cycle while touching Japan's historical mysteries, rich nature, and the gentle lives of locals is a luxury...

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Ikaruga Town

Ikaruga Town, in the northwestern Nara Basin, is a historical town where Japanese Buddhist culture flourished, home to the World Heritage "Horyu-ji Temple" established by Prince Shotoku. Dotted with temples strongly retaining ancient appearances like Horyu-ji (with the world's oldest wooden structures), Hokki-ji (with its beautiful five-storied pagoda), and Horin-ji. Surrounded by peaceful rural landscapes, renting a bicycle to tour historical spots is extremely popular with international travelers. This town, where deep history since Japan's Asuka period harmonizes with quiet satoyama scenery, is ideal for those wanting to leisurely trace the origins of Japanese spirituality.

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Gojo City

Gojo City, in western Nara, is a historical town that once flourished as a transportation hub connecting Osaka, Wakayama, and Nara. "Shinmachi-dori Street," lined with heavy Edo-period townhouses, is designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, with beautiful streetscapes that let you re-experience the prosperity of the time just by walking. Many attractive spots harmonize history and nature, such as sites associated with the Southern Court and clear streams of the Yoshino River. Particularly famous for traditional "persimmon" production, you can enjoy rich food blessings. It's perfect for travelers wishing to leisurely savor Japanese emotions away...

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Uda City

Uda City, in northeastern Nara, is a historic area appearing in the "Kojiki" and "Nihon Shoki." Cultural heritages are dotted throughout, such as the Matsuyama district with its Edo-period medicine wholesaler streetscapes and "Muro-ji Temple," famous as Women's Koya. Surrounded by beautiful mountains and rural landscapes, seasonal colors vividly decorate historical buildings. Due to the pure water springs, sake brewing is also active. You can experience the uncommercialized richness of regional Japan and the warm lives of locals, chosen by authentic travelers wishing to deeply savor Japanese spirituality and history in a quiet environment.

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Sakurai City

Sakurai City, located in the southeastern Nara Basin, is a treasure trove of history known as the "Hometown of Manyo," where Japan's nation-building began. Dotted with ancient history, it features Omiwa Shrine (one of Japan's oldest), Hase-dera Temple colored with beautiful flowers, and many massive ancient burial mounds (kofun), letting you feel the breath of ancient Japan everywhere. It's also famous as the birthplace of Miwa Somen, with traditional food culture being a major attraction. While being a major tourist destination, it retains a calm atmosphere with peaceful rural landscapes, highly rated by intellectually curious travelers wishing to leisurely learn...

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Tenkawa Village

Tenkawa Village

Tenkawa Village in central Nara is a mystical area known as the "Village Near Heaven," surrounded by high-altitude mountains. Home to a portion of the UNESCO World Heritage "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range," it has flourished since ancient times as a training ground for mountain worship. Within the village are Tenkawa Daibenzaiten-sha, said to be one of Japan's leading power spots, and Dorogawa Onsen with its row of retro inns, inviting visitors into a fantastic world. It is ideal for hiking in the beautiful "Mitarai Valley" with its transparent blue waters and for seeking summer...

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Totsukawa Village

Totsukawa Village

Located at the southernmost tip of Nara Prefecture, Totsukawa Village is the largest village by area in Japan and a "hidden region" where untouched nature still remains. Approximately 96% of the village is covered in forests, with overwhelming scenery woven by steep mountains, deep canyons, and emerald green clear streams. Nature and faith live on here, with abundant "free-flowing hot spring" water and a part of the historic "Kumano Kodo" pilgrimage route passing through. The spectacular view from the massive "Tanise Suspension Bridge" and the silence of the "Hatenashi Settlement" offer an ultimate retreat, letting adventurous travelers wishing to touch...

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Yoshino Town

Located in central Nara, Yoshino Town is a historical town known as one of Japan's leading cherry blossom spots and a sanctuary for mountain worship. At the World Heritage "Mt. Yoshino," approximately 30,000 cherry trees bloom as if covering the entire mountain, and their overwhelming beauty continues to fascinate tourists from abroad. Flourishing as a base for Shugendo since ancient times, solemn temples like Kinpusen-ji are scattered about, and a sacred air drifts across the whole mountain. It's also famous as a production area for high-quality "Yoshino Cedar," where you can enjoy traditional forestry culture, beautiful wood crafts, and delicious...

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Nara City

Nara City, the capital of Nara Prefecture, is an internationally colorful ancient capital that served as the center of Japan as "Heijo-kyo" in the 8th century. World-famous spots such as the Great Buddha of Todai-ji Temple (the city's symbol) and Nara Park (where thousands of deer play) are gathered within walking distance. In "Naramachi," where traditional townhouses line the streets, you can enjoy visiting sophisticated cafes and general stores while feeling the atmosphere of the Edo period. Providing peaceful time and deep emotion for both first-time international tourists and repeat visitors, this city is the ultimate sightseeing city where historical...

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Nara Prefecture

Nara Prefecture

Nara Prefecture is the source of Japan's history and culture, having flourished as a former capital. Within the prefecture, numerous historical legacies forming the foundation of Japanese spiritual culture remain, including the World Heritage "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara," Horyu-ji Temple (the world's oldest wooden structure), and the mystical Mt. Yoshino. Unlike adjacent Osaka or Kyoto, quiet prayer spaces spread within rich nature, allowing visitors to forget time and immerse themselves in Japan's original landscape. For travelers wanting to experience the true depth of Japan through seasonal scenery, traditional crafts, and historic food culture, Nara is a special sanctuary that...

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