Considered the cradle of Japanese civilisation, Nara Prefecture is one of the country’s oldest regions and lies landlocked in Kansai. In the 8th century, the city of Nara (originally known as Yamato) was selected as Japan’s first permanent capital and the seat of the emperor. Today, Nara boasts more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than any other prefecture.
Things to do in Nara Prefecture
With its rich history and stunning displays of cherry blossoms, Nara Prefecture is not to be missed.
Spot deer in Nara Park. Located at the foot of Mount Wakakusa, Nara Park was established in the heart of the city in 1880. It provides a setting for some of Nara’s main attractions and is particularly famed for its wild, free-roaming deer. Marvel at the 15-metre bronze Buddha in the Tōdai-ji Temple and explore the Nara National Museum, which is home to paintings, sculptures and ceremonial objects from across Japan.
Admire the cherry blossoms of Mount Yoshino. Nara Prefecture is home to one of Japan’s most famous hanami destinations, Mount Yoshino, which is planted with more than 30,000 cherry trees that blossom in the spring. Together with Mount Koya and the Kumano area, it is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Follow one of the scenic trails that ascend its slopes before exploring the shrines and temples in the town of Yoshino.
Visit the Buddhist temple of Hōryū-ji. Dating back to the 7th century, Hōryū-ji is one of Nara’s Seven Great Temples and served as both a seminary and a monastery throughout its history. Now UNESCO World Heritage listed, it is home to some of the oldest surviving wooden structures in the world, including a five-storey pagoda, a central gate and an impressive kondō. Precious statues, artworks and Buddhist relics are on display in the Gallery of Temple Treasures.
Getting around Nara Prefecture
Kansai International Airport is the main aviation gateway to Nara Prefecture and has flights to destinations across the globe. Trains connect to major towns and cities throughout the prefecture while buses serve smaller destinations not on the rail network.