Nara Group Tours


Nara
Todai-ji Temple

Nara
Kasuga Taisha Shrine
Travel Guide
Nara Tips & Facts

Region
Kansai

Population
about 1.2 million

Dialects
Okuyoshino

Climate
Inland climate

Prefecture
Nara
Nara Travel Info
Nara is more than just an ancient capital—it’s the birthplace of Japan’s cultural and religious identity. As the first permanent seat of government in 710 AD, it played a key role in shaping Japanese Buddhism, Confucian principles, and architectural styles. The city’s temples, like Todai-ji and Horyu-ji, showcase intricate designs inspired by the Tang Dynasty, reflecting Nara’s deep historical ties to China and the Silk Road.
Many of Japan’s lasting traditions took root here. The establishment of the imperial court led to the development of refined arts, literature, and religious ceremonies that still influence Japanese culture today. Kasuga Taisha Shrine, famous for its lantern-lined pathways, embodies the fusion of Shinto and Buddhism—a hallmark of Nara’s legacy. With its well-preserved heritage and UNESCO-listed sites, the city remains a living museum of Japan’s earliest cultural golden age.
Best Places to Visit in Nara

Todai-ji Temple & the Great Buddha (Daibutsu)
A masterpiece of Buddhist architecture, Todai-ji houses Japan’s largest bronze Buddha statue, standing at 15 meters tall. This awe-inspiring temple, originally built in the 8th century, symbolizes Nara’s deep Buddhist roots. The wooden Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall) remains one of the world’s largest wooden structures, despite being a reconstruction.

Nara Park & the Free-Roaming Deer
No trip to Nara is complete without a visit to Nara Park, home to over 1,000 sacred deer. These gentle creatures, once believed to be divine messengers, freely wander the park’s vast greenery. Visitors can feed them special deer crackers (shika senbei), but be ready for some playful nudges.

Kasuga Taisha Shrine
A stunning example of Shinto elegance, Kasuga Taisha is famous for its vermilion-colored buildings and thousands of bronze and stone lanterns. The shrine’s pathways, lined with ancient moss-covered lanterns, create an enchanting atmosphere, especially during the Lantern Festivals in February and August.

Kofuku-ji Temple & Five-Story Pagoda
Once one of the most powerful temples in Japan, Kofuku-ji features an iconic five-story pagoda that stands as Nara’s second tallest. Located near Nara Park, this site is perfect for those looking to experience the city’s spiritual heritage in a scenic setting.
