Introduction
The sight of adorable deer roaming freely and waiting to be fed is just the start of what Nara has to offer. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient Japanese city stands out as a natural paradise and a top destination for a memorable Japanese retreat.
Welcome to Nara: Ancient Capital of Japan
Nara, the capital of Nara Prefecture in Japan, has a rich history that dates back to when it served as Japan's capital from 710 to 794. Although it only gained city status in 1898, Nara has long been a hub of culture and commerce.
Today, the city is a vibrant tourist destination, celebrated for its historical temples, landmarks, and status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nara is now a top spot for anyone wanting to soak in natural beauty and unique local finds.
Discover the Largest Bronze Buddha—So Majestic!
Image source: Pinterest
Todaiji Temple, or the "Great Eastern Temple," is a must-see if you're visiting Nara! Built in 752, it was originally the head temple for all provincial Buddhist temples in Japan. Its influence was so significant that the capital was actually moved away from Nara in 784 just to reduce the temple's impact on government affairs.
While its main hall, the Daibutsuden (Big Buddha Hall), was once the largest wooden building in the world, the current structure—rebuilt in 1692—is a bit smaller, at two-thirds the original size. Yet, it still impresses with one of Japan's largest bronze Buddha statues, standing 15 meters tall.
Inside the Daibutsuden Hall at Todaiji, you'll find not just the grand Buddha but also a collection of smaller Buddhist statues and models showcasing both the temple's historic and current architecture.
One of the more quirky attractions is a pillar with a hole in its base, exactly the size of the Daibutsu's nostril. Legend has it that if you can squeeze through this hole, you'll achieve enlightenment in your next life. Would you give it a shot, or are you not quite a believer?
Miwa Somen: A Noodle Like No Other!
Miwa Somen noodles featured on ZenPlus
When you first set foot in Nara, you'll definitely want to indulge in their famous Miwa Somen. These noodles are a culinary delight, crafted in the valleys of Nara where the winters are harsh and cold.
The making of Miwa Somen is an art, taking one to two days and involving a unique fermentation process known as 'Umashi.' This technique meticulously removes excess water, giving the noodles their signature smooth yet firm texture, ensuring they stay perfect even after cooking.
Dating back 1300 years to the Omiwa Shrine—the oldest in Japan—these noodles were originally made to help people survive famines and plagues.
The traditional method produces very thin, highly elastic noodles, known for their exceptional quality—so fine, they're even praised in ancient Japanese poems (they're that good!)
Oh, Deer!
For those who can't resist cute animals, Nara Park in Nara City is a must-visit.
Located alongside Naramachi and Nishinokyo, this park is one of the jewels of Nara City. It spans a whopping 660 hectares and is renowned for its friendly deer that roam freely and the iconic temples scattered throughout.
Feeding the deer with special crackers is a delightful experience, and these are available all around the park. And for your own treats, there are charming traditional tea houses and kiosks loaded with snacks and souvenirs!
Nara’s Local Specialties
Nara green tea featured on ZenPlus
Before you leave Nara, make sure to explore its treasure trove of local culinary delights. Start with the aromatic Nara green tea—perfect on its own or paired with traditional Japanese confections like Yokan, Daifuku, and Dango.
Don't miss out on the unique persimmon butter—ripe persimmon paste mixed with rich domestic butter. Try it on toast: just cut the bread, toast it lightly, spread a generous amount of persimmon butter, and toast again for what locals call 'Kaki Butter Toast.'
Also, give the Nara specialty—a wooden barrel-brewed soy sauce—a try. It's a clear red-orange delight with a light taste and gorgeous aroma that subtly elevates any dish!
Tranquility Awaits at Yoshikien Garden!
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Yoshikien Garden, nestled in the heart of Nara, offers a lush escape into the tranquility of traditional Japanese garden designs. Named after the nearby Yoshikigawa River, this garden sits on what used to be the residential area for priests of the Kofukuji Temple.
Within its confines, you'll find three distinct gardens: a serene pond garden, a vibrant moss garden, and an elegantly designed tea ceremony garden. Together, they showcase the diversity and artistry of Japanese gardening.
Just across the river, you can also explore Isuien Garden for even more garden styles. Yoshikien is particularly stunning in the fall when the autumn leaves provide a fiery backdrop to the peaceful wooden tea house—it’s the perfect spot for a quiet, reflective afternoon!
Witness The Torch Rituals This March!
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If you find yourself in Nara this March, don't miss Omizutori at Todaiji Temple—a captivating series of repentance rituals that have been celebrated annually for over 1250 years!
Nestled on a hillside near the main hall of Todaiji Temple, you'll find Nigatsudo Hall. This picturesque spot isn't just a subtemple; it's where the ancient Omizutori rituals come to life each March, aligning with the second month of the lunar calendar—hence the name 'second month hall.'
From March 1st to 14th, right after sunset, participants carry massive torches up to the balcony of Nigatsudo Hall. These torches, which can be up to eight meters long, are then held out over the crowd, showering them with embers that are said to bring protection for the coming year.
The torches differ in size, and the whole dazzling display lasts around twenty minutes, with onlookers gathered in the courtyard beneath the ancient woodwork of the temple—it’s a sight you will never forget!
Fascinated by the City? Shop Nara from Home!
If you've fallen for Nara City but can't visit just yet, don't worry—Nara can come to you!
Local retailers have partnered with the online marketplace ZenPlus to bring international shoppers a taste of Nara's unique products. With over 5 million Japanese products from more than 3,000 retailers, getting your hands on the best of Nara—and Japan—is now a breeze. Still thinking about that trip to Japan?
