{"id":26975,"date":"2022-06-29T15:00:40","date_gmt":"2022-06-29T15:00:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gogonihon.com\/?p=26975"},"modified":"2023-05-12T12:53:14","modified_gmt":"2023-05-12T12:53:14","slug":"nara-city","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gogonihon.com\/en\/blog\/nara-city\/","title":{"rendered":"Nara City: visit the city of deer, spirituality and ancient Japan"},"content":{"rendered":"

A peaceful city full of friendly deer walking freely like in a Disney movie. That’s what many people imagine when they think about Nara. But Nara City has way more to offer its visitors. And in this article, we’ll tell you what makes it unique and why you should include it in your Japan travel itinerary.<\/span><\/p>\n

Located in the <\/span>Kansai region<\/span> (Kansaiken<\/em> \u95a2\u897f\u570f), Nara City has a deep religious and cultural background and is a perfect travel destination when you visit Japan. Unfortunately, it’s often overshadowed by more famous neighbors –<\/span> Kyoto<\/span><\/a> or<\/span> Osaka<\/span><\/a>. But we believe that Nara’s magnificent architecture, divine nature, and delicious food will turn your trip into an exciting adventure.<\/span><\/p>\n

Read more about the Kansai Japan and what makes it so unique<\/b> here<\/b><\/a>.<\/b><\/p>\n

A brief history of Nara City<\/b><\/h2>\n

Founded in 710 AD, Nara was Japan’s first ancient capital. It was a diversified city that adopted multiple traditions from China and Korea. One of those ideas was Buddhism which quickly spread all over the country and became the primary religion in Japan.<\/span><\/p>\n

But despite the increasing power of Buddhism, local Shintoism didn’t disappear. When you stroll through Nara City, you’ll notice how Buddhist temples harmonise perfectly with Shinto shrines. That’s the same harmony that existed between two religions back then.<\/span><\/p>\n

In 794 AD, Kyoto became the new capital. The Nara Period was over, but it left an abundance of cultural heritage that we still appreciate.<\/span><\/p>\n

Things to do in Nara City<\/b><\/h2>\n

Nara City has the most extensive number of UNESCO World Heritage Sights in the country. And, despite its small size, it has absolutely unmissable sightseeing spots! If you’re wondering what to do when you visit Nara, here is a list of fantastic places you shouldn’t miss.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Deer<\/p>\n

Meet a sacred Nara deer<\/b><\/h3>\n

Start your adventure with the most popular tourist attraction of the city – Nara Park. Free-roaming Nara deer aren’t afraid of people, and you can easily see them walking on the streets, pedestrian lanes, and sometimes even poping in a grocery store or cafeteria.<\/span><\/p>\n

According to the Shinto religion, deer are “messengers of the Gods.” And in Nara Park, these sacred animals have been carefully protected for many years.<\/span><\/p>\n

Explore Buddhist temples of Nara<\/b><\/h3>\n

To understand Japanese spiritual traditions, you should refer to their roots. Visit Buddhist temples that had a remarkable impact on the formation of Japanese spirituality in Nara City.<\/span><\/p>\n