Discovering the Unique Charm of Nara's Attractions
In fact, Nara is Japan's oldest ancient capital, known in antiquity as #Yamato#. The current Nara Prefecture was established in 1887. From 710 to 794, it was also one of the seats of Japanese government—before the emperor and court moved to Kyoto. Nara boasts some of Japan's oldest and most important temples and shrines, along with rich cultural history and traditional crafts such as brushes, ink, lacquerware, tea, and horticulture. 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 feeding the deer, there are some other historically charming attractions and foods worth visiting and tasting.
1. Asuka Daibutsu
Home to Japan's oldest Buddha statue, located in the famous village of Asuka. Here, the "Asuka Daibutsu" (Shakyamuni Tathagata) has been enshrined in Asuka-dera for a thousand years. In 1196, the temple was tragically destroyed by fire, and it was not until 1826 that it was restored. Although the main Buddha statue was blackened by smoke, it suffered little damage and has not moved; it still faces the legendary birthplace of Prince Shōtoku, "Tachibana-dera."
2. Tōshōdai-ji
A temple specifically bestowed upon the famous Chinese monk Jianzhen. "Tōshōdai" means a place of practice beside the Buddha. At that time, during the Tang dynasty, Jianzhen was invited by Emperor Shōmu of Japan to confer precepts. It took him twelve years to reach Japan, enduring several failures with unwavering determination. By the time he arrived in Nara, he had lost his sight. As soon as Jianzhen arrived, he set up an ordination platform in front of the Great Buddha Hall and conferred precepts on Emperor Shōmu, Empress Kōmyō, and many eminent monks. At that time, Japan had already taken on the ideology of a Buddhist nation, and Master Jianzhen truly added the finishing touch. His immeasurable influence is now even included in middle school textbooks.
3. Naramachi (area around Gangō-ji)
The area centered on the ruins of Gangō-ji (a UNESCO World Heritage site). Gangō-ji is located in the "Gekyō" district of Heijō-kyō. After the capital moved to Heijō-kyō, this area developed as a temple and shrine district. Through various eras, Naramachi still retains some of its Edo-period atmosphere, full of nostalgic charm. It's worth a visit.
4. Tamausagi (Jade Rabbit Dango) at Kintetsu Nara Station
Tourists may not know about it, but it is a very famous local shop for kuromitsu kinako dango (sweet rice dumplings with black honey and soybean flour). They only sell this one item, and all dumplings are made fresh daily. Quantities are limited, so they close when sold out. Please note the hours!
Tamausagi (Jade Rabbit Dango)
・Address: Inside Kintetsu Nara Station (after exiting the ticket gates)
・Business hours: 9:00–18:00
・Regular holiday: Tuesdays
5. Nara Specialty: Kakinoha-zushi (Persimmon Leaf Sushi) - Shop: Heisō
"Kakinoha-zushi" is sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves, made with salmon or mackerel. It is a specialty of Nara and Wakayama prefectures, a rustic Japanese dish. The century-old Heisō sushi has a history of over 150 years. This shop has multiple branches in the Kansai area. If you want to sit down and dine, you can visit the Nara branch by Sarusawa Pond. Besides Kakinoha-zushi, they also offer other local dishes like tea porridge and ayu sushi. Recommended items: Kakinoha-zushi, sesame tofu, and various Japanese sweets.
