Where is Nara?
What is Asuka-Fujiwara?
Nara City is Your Gateway
to Ancient Japan
Nara Prefecture is located in the heart of the Kansai (=Kinki) region in western Japan (shown in yellow on the map). Nara City, located within the prefecture, is perfectly positioned for easy access from Japan’s major cities.
From Osaka: Just 40-60 minutes by train (Kintetsu or JR lines)
From Kyoto: Around 45–60 minutes by train (Kintetsu or JR lines)
From Tokyo: About 2.5-3 hours via Shinkansen to Kyoto or Osaka, then transfer to Nara
📍 Nara Prefecture lies just southeast of Kyoto and east of Osaka — a peaceful escape that’s still within reach of Japan’s most vibrant cities.
Despite its close proximity to urban centers, Nara City feels like a step back in time — filled with ancient temples, deer-filled parks, and sacred sites that tell the story of Japan’s spiritual beginnings.
Where Are Asuka & Fujiwara in Nara Prefecture?
A Journey
to Japan’s Beginnings
Located in the middle of Nara Prefecture, the historic Asuka and Fujiwara areas (modern-day Kashihara City and Asuka Village) are considered the birthplace of Japan — home to ancient capitals, imperial sites, and sacred temples dating back over 1,400 years.
While surrounded by rich history and beautiful nature, this tranquil region is easily accessible from Japan's major cities. There are several train stations in the Asuka-Fujiwara region, but the most convenient is Kintetsu Kashihara-Jingu-Mae Station.
From Tokyo:
Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto, then transfer to the Kintetsu Line to Kashiharajingu-mae Station. Total travel time is approx. 5 to 6 hours.From Kyoto:
Take the Kintetsu Line to Kashiharajingu-mae Station. Approx. 1 to 1.5 hours.From Kintetsu Osaka Namba Station:
Take the Kintetsu Line to Yamato Yagi Station and transfer to the Kashiharajingu-mae Station. Approx. 1 to 1.5 hours.From Kintetsu Osaka Abenobashi Station:
Direct train on the Kintetsu Line to Kashiharajingu-mae Station. Approx. 40–60 minutes.From Nara City:
Take the Kintetsu Nara Line to Yamato-Saidaiji Station, transfer to the Kintetsu Kashihara Line, and get off at Kashiharajingu-mae Station. Approx. 40-60 minutes.
🧭 From Kashiharajingu-mae Station, the main sites in Asuka are just a 10–30 minute drive away, or reachable by local buses and rental bicycles.
Understanding the Difference
Between Nara Prefecture and Nara City
In Japan, Nara Prefecture (奈良県 / Nara-ken) is similar to a “state” in the U.S.—a large administrative region. Within Nara Prefecture, there are several cities and towns, one of which is Nara City (奈良市 / Nara-shi), often simply called “Nara.”
Many travelers assume that “Nara” refers to just one place, but it’s important to understand the distinction. Nara City is famous for sites like Todai-ji Temple and Nara Park with its friendly deer. However, the Asuka and Fujiwara region—home to Japan’s earliest capitals and rich historical sites—is also part of Nara Prefecture, though located farther south and distinct from Nara City.
Because both Nara Prefecture and Nara City are commonly referred to as just “Nara,” it’s essential to check carefully when reading maps or guidebooks to understand which area is being mentioned.
So when planning your trip, please note that Nara Prefecture includes multiple historically significant areas beyond Nara City. Understanding this difference will help you better navigate and explore the many cultural treasures the region has to offer.
