Discovering Other Charms of Nara
In fact, Nara is Japan's oldest ancient capital, historically known as #Yamato#. It was only in 1887 that the current Nara Prefecture was established. From 710 to 794, it was also one of the seats of Japanese government – only later did the emperor and court move to Kyoto. Nara has some of Japan's oldest and most important temples and shrines, as well as a rich cultural history. Its traditional industries have a long history, mainly including brushes, ink, lacquerware, tea, and flower and tree cultivation. Additionally, in 1974, it formed a sister-city relationship with Xi'an, China.
If you plan to visit Nara, besides the must-see Tōdai-ji and the must-feed deer, there are other historic attractions and cuisines worth exploring and tasting.
1. Asuka Temple (Asuka-dera) - The Flying Bird Great Buddha
Home to Japan's oldest Buddha statue, located in the famous Asuka village area, there is a "Flying Bird Great Buddha" (Shakyamuni) that has been enshrined for a thousand years at Asuka-dera. In 1196, a fire unfortunately burned down the temple, and it was not repaired until 1826. Although the main Buddha statue was blackened by smoke, it was not severely damaged and remained in place, still facing the legendary birthplace of Prince Shōtoku, "Tachibana-dera."
2. Tōshōdai-ji
A temple specifically bestowed upon the renowned Chinese monk Jianzhen. "Tōshō" means a place of修行 beside the Buddha. At that time during the Tang dynasty, he was invited by Emperor Shōmu of Japan to come and confer precepts. It took him twelve years to reach Japan, enduring several failures but remaining unwavering; by the time he arrived in Nara, he had lost his sight in both eyes. As soon as Jianzhen arrived, he set up a precept platform in front of the Great Buddha Hall and conferred precepts to the two emperors Shōmu and Kōken, as well as many senior monks. In a Japan that had already developed a Buddhist state ideology, Master Jianzhen truly played a finishing touch role. His immeasurable influence is now even included in middle school textbooks.
3. Nara-machi (Former site of Gangō-ji, a World Heritage Site)
The area centered around the former site of Gangō-ji, located in the "outer capital" area of Heijō-kyō. After developing along the streets, Nara-machi also has a long history. After the capital was moved to Heijō-kyō, it was first established as a district of temples and shrines. Under various historical backgrounds, Nara-machi still retains some features of the Edo period, with a nostalgic charm, so it is worth a visit.
4. Tamausagi (Rabbit Dumplings) inside Kintetsu Nara Station
Tourists may not know it, but it is a very famous local shop for black honey soybean flour dumplings. They only sell one product: black honey soybean flour dumplings. All dumplings are made fresh daily in limited quantities, and they close when sold out, so be mindful of the time.
Tamausagi (Rabbit Dumplings)
・Address: Inside Kintetsu Nara Station (exit the ticket gates)
・Business hours: 9:00–18:00
・Regular holiday: Tuesdays
5. Nara's specialty "Kaki no Ha Sushi" – Shop name: Heisō
"Kaki no Ha Sushi" is sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves, made with salmon or mackerel. It is a specialty of Nara and Wakayama prefectures, a rustic Japanese cuisine. The century-old brand Heisō has a history of over 150 years. As a seller of "Kaki no Ha Sushi," it now has multiple branches in the Kansai region. If you want to sit down and dine, you can visit the Nara shop next to Sarusawa Pond. Besides "Kaki no Ha Sushi," they also offer other local dishes such as tea porridge and sweetfish sushi. Recommended items: Kaki no Ha Sushi, sesame tofu, and various Japanese sweets.
