Nara, Japan is a city full of history and culture, with a rich and vibrant landscape that will take your breath away. From ancient temples and shrines to sprawling parks and gardens, Nara has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an exciting adventure, there’s something here for you. Here are the top 20 must-see places in Nara, Japan.
1. Todaiji Temple: Todaiji Temple is one of the most popular attractions in Nara. It was built in the 8th century and is the world's largest wooden building. Inside the temple is a giant bronze statue of the Buddha Vairocana, which is a must-see.
2. Kasuga Taisha Shrine: Kasuga Taisha Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Nara. It was founded in 768 and is one of the most important and popular Shinto shrines in Japan. The shrine is surrounded by more than 3,000 stone and bronze lanterns, making it a beautiful and peaceful place to visit.
3. Nara Park: Nara Park is a large park in the city of Nara. It is home to more than 1,200 wild deer that roam freely in the park. There are also many temples and shrines scattered throughout the park, making it a great place to explore and relax.
4. Kofukuji Temple: Kofukuji Temple is one of the oldest and most famous temples in Nara. It was founded in 710 and is home to the five-story pagoda, which is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. The temple is also home to many important Buddhist sculptures and artifacts.
5. Mount Wakakusa: Mount Wakakusa is a mountain located near Nara. It is a popular hiking destination and offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding area. The mountain is also home to many temples and shrines, making it a great place to explore.
6. Isuien Garden: Isuien Garden is a beautiful Japanese garden located in the city of Nara. It was built in 1690 and is one of the most popular gardens in the city. The garden is full of lush greenery and traditional Japanese architecture, making it a great place to relax and unwind.
7. Nara National Museum: The Nara National Museum is a museum located in the city of Nara. It is home to many important artifacts from Japan’s ancient past, such as sculptures, paintings, and pottery. The museum also has a large collection of Buddhist art and artifacts.
8. Heijo Palace: Heijo Palace is a palace located in the city of Nara. It was the imperial palace of the Japanese emperors from 710 to 784 and is now a popular tourist attraction. The palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is home to many important artifacts from the Heian period.
9. Horyuji Temple: Horyuji Temple is one of the oldest temples in Japan. It was founded in 607 and is home to many important Buddhist artifacts, such as sculptures and paintings. The temple is also home to the world’s oldest wooden structure, which is a must-see.
10. Kasugayama Primeval Forest: Kasugayama Primeval Forest is a large forest located near Nara. It is home to many species of plants and animals, making it a great place to explore and observe nature. The forest also has many temples and shrines scattered throughout, making it a great place to explore.
11. Nigatsu-do Hall: Nigatsu-do Hall is a Buddhist temple located in the city of Nara. It was founded in 752 and is home to many important Buddhist artifacts, such as sculptures and paintings. The temple is also home to the famous “Nigatsu-do Lantern Festival”, which is held every March and is a must-see.
12. Sarusawa Pond: Sarusawa Pond is a large pond located in the city of Nara. It is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, as it is surrounded by many temples and shrines. The pond is also home to many species of birds and other wildlife, making it a great place to observe nature.
13. Kasuga Grand Shrine: Kasuga Grand Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Nara. It was founded in 768 and is one of the most important and popular Shinto shrines in Japan. The shrine is surrounded by more than 3,000 stone and bronze lanterns, making it a beautiful and peaceful place to visit.
14. Yakushi-ji Temple: Yakushi-ji Temple is a Buddhist temple located in the city of Nara. It was founded in the 8th century and is home to many important Buddhist artifacts, such as sculptures and paintings. The temple is also home to the world’s oldest wooden structure, which is a must-see.
15. Tofukuji Temple: Tofukuji Temple is a Buddhist temple located in the city of Nara. It was founded in 1236 and is home to many important Buddhist artifacts, such as sculptures and paintings. The temple is also home to the famous “Tofukuji Lantern Festival”, which is held every December and is a must-see.
16. Mount Yoshino: Mount Yoshino is a mountain located near Nara. It is a popular hiking destination and offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding area. The mountain is also home to many temples and shrines, making it a great place to explore.
17. Gango-ji Temple: Gango-ji Temple is a Buddhist temple located in the city of Nara. It was founded in the 8th century and is home to many important Buddhist artifacts, such as sculptures and paintings. The temple is also home to the famous “Gango-ji Lantern Festival”, which is held every December and is a must-see.
18. Kasamatsu Park: Kasamatsu Park is a large park located in the city of Nara. It is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, as it is home to many temples and shrines. The park is also home to many species of birds and other wildlife, making it a great place to observe nature.
19. Kofukuji National Treasure Hall: Kofukuji National Treasure Hall is a museum located in the city of Nara. It is home to many important artifacts from Japan’s ancient past, such as sculptures, paintings, and pottery. The museum also has a large collection of Buddhist art and artifacts.
20. Nara Dreamland: Nara Dreamland is an amusement park located in the city of Nara. It is home to many rides and attractions, such as roller coasters and water slides. The park is also home to many restaurants and shops, making it a great place to explore and have fun.