- AROUND NARA PARK
- Nara Park is a finely wooded area more popularly called Deer Park for its over 1,000 gentle deer wandering about. A favorite pastime is to feed them special biscuits obtainable at the park.
Kofukuji Temple was founded in 710 as the tutelary temple of the powerful Fujiwara family. Of the 175 buildings at the height of its prosperity, only six remain. However, four of them are designated National Treasures and the Five-storied Pagoda reflected in nearby Sarusawanoike Pond is one of the most scenic sights of Nara.
Nara National Museum houses a remarkable collection of Buddhist art. Besides items owned by the museum itself are important objects entrusted to the museum for safekeeping by various temples and shrines throughout the country, and in particular those in the Kansai area.
Todaiji Temple is not only one of the greatest attractions in Nara, but in Japan as well. Founded in the mid-8th century, it has remained one of the most important temples in the land to this day. The colossal statue of Buddha was last repaired in 1692, and its wooden hall - the largest in the world - was rebuilt in 1709 one-third smaller than the original. The raised, specially-constructed Shosoin Treasure Repository housed Todaiji's priceless collection of art objects until the mid-20th century when they were placed in modern ferro concrete structures. Selected items from the collection can be seen at the Nara National Museum from late October to early November.
Kasuga Taisha Shrine is considered one of the 'Three Great Shinto Shrines' of Japan. Founded in 768, it is actually four shrines consecrated to different Shinto deities. Among the notable features are the vermilion color which creates a striking contrast to the surrounding verdant groves, the graceful deer that return to their pens at the call of a trumpet in the evening, and the 3,000 stone and bronze lanterns donated from the 11th century on. Although repeatedly rebuilt 57 times (approximately every 20 years), it has always been based on the original plans, making it an outstanding example of mid-8th century Japanese architecture. Shin-Yakushiji Temple, southwest of Kasuga Taisha Shrine, was founded in 747 by Empress Komyo, and the main hall dales from that time. It is chiefly famous for the beautiful 9th century carving of Yakushi-Nyorai on a circular base surrounded by 'Twelve Divine Generals' skillfully worked in clay.
- NISHINOKYO AREA
- Toshodaiji Temple, one of the largest and best proportioned temples of its period remaining, was founded in 759 by the illustrious Ganjin, a blind priest from China who arrived in Japan after many tribulations. Of particular note are the gilded dry-lacquer statues of Buddha Vairocana and the Thousand-armed Kannon, both National Treasures. The Lecture Hall, originally the Assembly Hall of the Nara Court, is a fine example of Nara period architecture. The Miroku Bosatsu statue enshrined inside is an Important Cultural Property.
Yakushiji Temple, near Toshodaiji Temple, is another symbol of Nara. Founded in 680, the renowned 8th century Yakushi-triad in the main hall has rare Hellenic details on the base. The exquisite three-storied East Pagoda built in 730 gives an illusion of being six-storied, and is thought by many to be the most graceful structure in Japan.
- HORYUJI TEMPLE AREA
- Horyuji Temple is the most precious repository in Japan from a myriad points of view: historically, architecturally, sculpturally and pictorially. Its forty-five buildings, from the 7th to 17th centuries, include some of the world's oldest wooden structures - along with the oldest, the Five-Storied Pagoda. Founded in 607 by Prince Shotoku, regent for Empress Suiko, promulgator of Buddhism and sponsor of the 'Seventeen-Article Constitution', the temple is a wonder more than worth visiting.
Chuguji Temple, near Horyuji's East Temple, is a convent noted for its art objects, chief among them are a fragment of the oldest embroidery in Japan and the beautiful, exceptionally serene 7th century wooden statue of Miroku-bosatsu.
Yamato Bunkakan Museum, in its natural setting, was designed in a synthesis of modern museum and traditionally Japanese architectural concepts. Many treasures of international importance from throughout East Asia are on display. Closed Mon.
- SIDE TRIP
- Hase Temple is about 1 hour from Nara and close to Hasedera Station. Built on a heavily-wooded mountain slope, the panoramic view at the top of 400 roofed over steps is well worth the climb. The peonies in late April - early May are breathtaking, as are the brilliant autumn leaves in fall.
This WWW version of the guide is brought us by courtesy of Japan Window project.
