Secrets of Nara Prefecture: The charm and truth revealed through a journey through the depths of history
The day I experienced the charm of Nara for the first time
First visit to Nara
My travels have left footprints in all 47 prefectures of Japan. Among them, Nara Prefecture has a special place. The first time I visited Nara was when I had just started my career as a travel web writer. The emotion I felt at that time is still vivid in my mind.
A place where you can feel the weight of history
Nara Prefecture is a land steeped in Japanese history. Todaiji and Kofukuji temples in Nara City are popular spots visited by millions of tourists each year on average. In particular, the Great Buddha Hall of Todaiji Temple took my breath away at its spectacular appearance. On average, it is said that about 80% of tourists visiting Todaiji Temple visit the Great Buddha Hall.
The charms of Nara seen from a traveler’s perspective
Nara’s appeal is not just as a tourist destination. If you dig deeper, you will see historic buildings that blend into your daily life and feel the warmth of the local people. For example, in Naramachi, you can feel as if time has stopped as you walk through the streets lined with local shops. There are many shops lined up here, including Kakinokizaka Honten, which offers traditional Japanese sweets. Among them, my favorite is Nara Saryo Iseya, which has a history of over 100 years. The Japanese sweets at this shop have a deliciousness that you will never forget once you try them.
The charm of Nara as a woman
Nara Prefecture has many attractive spots for women as well. For example, Naramachi Bijinyu is a perfect relaxation spot for women who are conscious of their beauty and health. This hot spring is said to be effective in moisturizing the skin and promoting blood circulation. I feel the effects every time I visit.
By digging deeper into the charms of Nara Prefecture, you can feel its true beauty and the weight of its history. Nara Prefecture holds a special place in my travels so far. From now on, I would like to continue to explore even deeper parts of the world, with the mission of continuing to convey its charm.
Dig deep into the history of Nara! Discovery of unknown charm
Nara period – the cornerstone of Japanese cultural development
Speaking of Nara Prefecture, it is known as a place filled with Japanese culture and history. Especially during the Nara period, many cultures flourished here as Japan’s first capital. As an ancient capital, Nara is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history.
Heijokyo and its ruins
Heijokyo is a place that functioned as the capital of Japan during the Nara period. Even now, there are many places that still retain traces of those days, such as the Heijo Palace ruins and Chodo-in Temple. It is said that the ruins of Heijokyo are visited by an average of over 1 million tourists every year.
The secret of the Asuka era
The history of Nara Prefecture can be traced back to the Asuka period, which is even older than the Nara period. During the Asuka period, the foundation for the formation of Japanese history and culture was laid. Asuka Temple, which is considered the center of Asuka culture, and Ishibutai Tumulus testify to the depth of Asuka’s history.
My recommendation! Local gourmet food in Nara
If you visit Nara, you should not only enjoy the history, but also enjoy the local gourmet food. In particular, “Narazuke” and “Persimmon Leaf Sushi” are flavors that continue to be loved by locals. I was able to enjoy these local delicacies at a long-established restaurant called Hitoshizuku. In addition, there are many hidden gems in Nara Prefecture, and the food culture can be said to be one of the attractions of Nara.
Modern Nara and Expectations for the Future
Traditions of Nara still alive today
While Nara Prefecture is a treasure trove of history, it is also tightly connected to modern life. In the landscape of the ancient capital of Nara, local people are creating new value while preserving ancient traditions and culture.
art and nara
In recent years, art events and exhibitions have been increasing in Nara Prefecture. In particular, “NARA ART FESTIVAL” is known for the participation of artists from Japan and abroad, and its scale is expanding year by year. This event attracts more than 50,000 visitors on average and is attracting attention as a place where old and new cultures intersect.
Efforts for ecotourism
Nara Prefecture is rich in nature and history, so it is also focusing on ecotourism initiatives. Specifically, the Nara Ecotourism Association was established to promote environmentally friendly tourism activities. In collaboration with this association, a tour company specializing in ecotourism called Nara Tabi Ecotours also provides services, with an average of over 3,000 tourists participating each year.
Expectations for the future and my impressions
Among Japan’s 47 prefectures, Nara Prefecture continues to attract many tourists due to its deep history and culture. However, we hope that Nara Prefecture will further develop and expand its appeal in the future through the new charms and initiatives that modern Nara has.
I, Kasumi, have spent a lot of time in Nara Prefecture during my travels so far. I feel that this place is a special place in Japan, where you can experience both the depth of history and the charm of modern Nara. I would like to continue delving deeper into the charms of Nara Prefecture and convey its beauty and value to as many people as possible.
summary
Nara Prefecture has always existed as the center of Japanese culture and history from ancient times to the present day. By delving into and experiencing its deep charm and history, we will be able to reaffirm the beauty and value of Japan. When you visit Nara Prefecture, feel its depth and fully enjoy its new discoveries and charms.
Historical buildings selected by Kasumi
Nara Prefecture is a region with many historical buildings and ancient ruins. This time, I, Kasumi, have selected five historical buildings in Nara Prefecture that have been particularly memorable to me. We will also give each item a “Kasumi Point” to show you its charm.
Todaiji Temple (Nara City)
Kasumi points:
This is a representative temple from the Nara period that enshrines Japan’s largest Buddha statue, the Great Buddha. The huge Great Buddha Hall is a sight to behold and is worth visiting at least once.
Kasuga Taisha Shrine (Nara City)
Kasumi points:
A sacred place surrounded by the nature of Mt. Kasuga. The seasonal scenery and buildings with a long history are in beautiful harmony.
Yakushiji Temple (Nara City)
Kasumi points:
This temple retains the architectural style of the early Heian period, which shows the development of Buddhist architecture. The main hall and pagoda are beautifully constructed and incorporate the best techniques of the time.
Heijo Palace Ruins (Nara City)
Kasumi points:
This place was the center of Heijokyo, the capital of the Nara period. The center of the palace and the ruins of Daigokuden can be seen as reminders of the prosperity of the time.
Five-storied pagoda (Horyuji Temple) (Ikaruga-cho, Ikoma-gun)
Kasumi points:
A representative building of the Asuka period, which is also registered as a World Heritage Site. The five-storied pagoda allows you to feel the beauty of traditional Japanese construction techniques.
These buildings are places where you can feel the long history and culture of Nara Prefecture. By knowing the thoughts behind each item and the background of the times, you will be able to feel a deeper fascination with them. Be sure to visit these historical buildings when visiting Nara Prefecture.
