Nara

Nara was established as Japan’s first permanent capital in 710. It’s best known for Nara Park, where sacred deer roam freely among the temples, and Todai-ji, home to one of Japan’s largest bronze Buddha statues.

Where to go

Todai-ji and Kasuga Taisha shrine anchor the eastern side of the city, both bordering Nara Park. Horyuji Temple, on the western edge, holds some of the oldest wooden buildings in the world. Kofukuji Temple and the Isuien and Yoshikien gardens round out a typical day of sightseeing.

Good to know

Nara sits under an hour from both Kyoto and Osaka by train, and its main sights cluster closely enough together that most visitors see it comfortably as a single day trip rather than an overnight stay.