Holiday in Nara

What makes Nara special as a destination?

Nara, Japan's first permanent capital (710–784), is a city where history literally comes alive: Over 1,200 sacred Sika deer roam freely through parks, temple complexes, and even shopping streets, bowing politely to visitors who offer them the special Shika-Senbei crackers, and have been revered as divine messengers for centuries. The Todaiji Temple houses the Great Buddha of Nara (Daibutsu), a 15-meter tall bronze statue from the 8th century, sitting in the largest wooden structure in the world — and even this building is only two-thirds the size of the original structure. The Kasuga Taisha Shrine, nestled in the primeval forest of Nara Park, is famous for its approximately 3,000 stone lanterns and 1,000 bronze lanterns, all lit simultaneously during the lantern festivals in February and August — a mystical spectacle. The Naramachi district, the former merchant town, surprises with traditional Machiya townhouses (characteristically narrow and deep), charming cafes, craft shops, and small galleries. The Isuien Garden offers an oasis of tranquility with perfectly composed views of the Todaiji in the background. Nara Park, with its expansive meadows, ancient trees, and the ubiquitous deer, is one of the most atmospheric urban parks in Japan. Nara is only a 45-minute train ride from Kyoto, making it perfect for a day trip — but those who stay overnight experience the city in magical silence when the tourist groups have disappeared.