Historic Destinations

in Nara

Explore ancient temples, palace ruins, burial mounds, and cultural landmarks across Asuka, Fujiwara, and Nara City.

From the birthplace of Japan's ancient capitals to the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Nara City, these historic destinations reveal the origins of Japanese civilization. Discover temples, shrines, kofun burial mounds, palace ruins, and preserved townscapes that reflect more than 1,300 years of history, culture, and faith. Use this guide to explore Nara's most important sites and discover how they connect with our recommended tours.

Tachibana-dera Temple: Traditional Japanese wooden temple with ornate curved roof, surrounded by green trees and shrubbery, under a bright blue sky.

Area 01

Asuka, Fujiwara

Ishibutai Kofun Tumulus: Large rocks arranged on a grassy area with trees and mountains in the background, seen through the leaves of a tree in the foreground.

Area 02

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Todai-ji Temple, The Great Buddha: Large black Buddha statue indoors, surrounded by gold decoration, with right hand raised in blessing and left hand resting on lap. Potted plants and offerings at the base.

Area 03

Nara City

Naramachi: Traditional Japanese room with tatami mats, sliding doors, wooden ceiling, and minimal furnishings including a low wooden table and display shelves.

Area 04

Naramachi

Horyu-ji Temple: Traditional Japanese pagoda surrounded by trees with green and yellow leaves, under a partly cloudy sky.

Area 05

Ikaruga, Shigi, Ikoma

Hase-dera Temple: Interior of a traditional wooden structure with hanging paper lanterns, colorful banners, and hanging scrolls or artwork, overlooking a scenic mountain view outside.

Area 06

Yamanobe, Tenri, Sakurai

Muro-ji Temple: A traditional Japanese pagoda with four tiers, nestled among trees with autumn foliage, surrounded by a forested area.

Area 07

Uda

Coming soon

Several deer resting on grass in front of a stone wall, with one deer in the foreground and two others in the background.