Visit Nara

30/10/2024

＼Special Night Visit to the Hakuhō Garan at Yakushiji Temple✨／
The event "Autumn Nights in Nara 2024" will take place every Friday and Saturday from November 1 to November 30, as well as on November 3, allowing you to enjoy the charm of the ancient capital in autumn evenings. (*Night visit dates vary depending on the temple and shrine.)

At the World Heritage site Yakushiji Temple, a special night visit to the Hakuhō Garan will be held. You’ll have the opportunity to view the Kondō (Main Hall), home to the Yakushi Triad (National Treasure), as well as the East and West Pagodas (both National Treasures), with the first-floor doors opened to allow a glimpse inside.

Yakushiji Temple "Special Night Visit to the Hakuhō Garan"
■ Dates: November 2 and 3
■ Time: 5:30PM–8:00PM (Gates temporarily close at 5:00PM; final admission at 7:45PM)
■ Admission for Night Visit: 1,000 yen

Goshuin (temple stamps) will be available until 8:00PM.
No reservation required
Photo: Yakushiji Temple Kondō

For more details on access and other information, visit 👉
https://narashikanko.or.jp/event/yakushiji-yakansanpai/

※This English text has been generated based on machine translation.

30/10/2024

Calling all nature lovers!
Did you know there's a hidden shortcut to the top of Mt. Wakakusa in Nara Park? This 342-meter mountain boasts stunning views, and the climb usually takes about 45-60 minutes.

But for those who prefer a more leisurely ascent (especially families with young children or those who are less mobile), there's a convenient option!

Skip the hike and take the Mt. Wakakusa Summit Bus!

This seasonal service runs every hour from 9:00AM to 4:00PM, on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays (excluding December 8th). It operates until December 27th, 2024, so you still have plenty of time to experience it this fall!

As autumn deepens, the slopes of Mt. Wakakusa will transform into a breathtaking tapestry of red, orange, and yellow leaves. Don't miss this chance to witness the mountain's beauty in all its seasonal glory!

For bus stop locations and the full schedule, check out the official website:https://www.narakotsu.co.jp/language/en/

Link to Nara Kotsu bus schedule�https://www.narakotsu.co.jp/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/wakakusa-nishinokyo_01.pdf

※This English text has been generated based on machine translation.

29/10/2024

Hannya-ji Temple: A Timeless Autumn Haven
Established in 735, Hannya-ji Temple has Japan’s oldest remaining tower gate. Emperor Shomu founded the temple to protect Heijo-kyo, the ancient capital, from evil spirits. Renowned for its charitable work and deep-rooted connection to the bodhisattva Manjushri, the temple has served as a center of learning and spirituality for centuries. Known for its long history of charitable works, Hannya-ji Temple is dedicated to the worship of Monju Bosatsu, the Bodhisattva of Wisdom, revered as the savior of the world. In line with Monju Bosatsu's mission of compassion, the temple has historically provided support and relief to those in need, establishing itself as a pioneer of charitable activities in Japan’s history.

The temple enshrines Monju Bosatsu, seated atop a lion statue, as its principal deity. In the past, Hannya-ji was also a significant center for learning, where thousands of monks once studied.

In autumn, the temple is particularly enchanting with its vast fields of cosmos flowers. Known as the “Autumn Cherry Blossom Temple,” it features around 150,000 cosmos plants, with approximately 20 varieties blooming in the depths of the season. We invite you to come and see these “autumn cherry blossoms” and spend a tranquil autumn day while admiring the Buddhist statues..

Hannya Temple
■Address: 221 Bonjicho, Nara City (north side of Todaiji Temple)
■Access:
●Take the Kintetsu Nara Line, get off at Nara Station, and take the bus bound for Aoyama Jutaku (Aoyama Residence) at platform No. 2.
●Take the bus bound for “Aoyama Jutaku” from bus stop No. 1 at the west exit of Nara Station on the JR Yamato Line, and get off at “Hannwakuji” (about 10 minutes).
■Time:9：00AM to 5:00PM（Last entry at 4:30PM）
■Official website: http://www.hannyaji.com/

※This English text has been generated based on machine translation.

28/10/2024

＼Special Night Visit to the National Treasure Golden Hall at Toshodaiji Temple✨／
The "Autumn Nights in Nara 2024" event, where you can enjoy the charm of the ancient capital on autumn evenings, will be held every Friday and Saturday from November 1 to 30 as well as on November 3. (*The dates for special night visits vary by temple and shrine.)

At the World Heritage site Toshodaiji Temple, a special night visit to the National Treasure Golden Hall will be held. In the Golden Hall, which still retains its original form from the Nara period, you can view the seated statue of the Buddha Rushana, the standing statue of Yakushi Nyorai, and the standing statue of Senju Kannon (all National Treasures). Since nighttime visits are only held a few times a year, this is a rare opportunity.

Toshodaiji Temple "Special Night Visit to the National Treasure Golden Hall"
■Dates: November 2 and 3, 2024
■ Time: 5:30PM–8:00PM (The gates close temporarily at 5:00PM; final admission is at 7:45PM)
■ Admission: 500 yen

Goshuin (temple stamps) will be available until 8:00PM
No reservation is required
※Photo: Toshodaiji Temple Golden Hall

For details on access and more, visit 👉 https://narashikanko.or.jp/event/toshodaiji-yakansanpai/


※This English text has been generated based on machine translation.

24/10/2024

Experience a Special Night at Gangō-ji Temple: Nighttime Viewing of the National Treasure Gokurakudo Hall and Illuminated Grounds ✨

As part of the Autumn Nights in Nara 2024 event, held every Friday and Saturday from November 1st to 30th, and also on November 3rd, visitors can enjoy the ancient capital in the evening. At the World Heritage site Gangō-ji Temple, a special nighttime viewing of the National Treasure Gokurakudo Hall (Main Hall) and illuminated grounds will take place.

In addition to the nighttime viewing of the Gokurakudo Hall and illuminated grounds, the usually closed Zen room (also a National Treasure) will be open to the public, allowing visitors to see the large artwork by artist Kokuta Suda illuminated.

Gangō-ji Temple: Nighttime Viewing of the National Treasure Gokurakudo Hall (Main Hall) and Illuminated Grounds
■Dates: November 1st, 2nd, 8th, 9th, 15th, 16th, 22nd, 23rd, 29th, and 30th, 2024
■Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM (gates close temporarily at 5:00 PM)
■Admission Fee: 500 yen

※Goshuin (temple seal) available until 8:00 PM
※Reservations are not required
[Image: Gangō-ji Temple, Gokurakudo Hall (Main Hall)]

For more details, including access information, please visit https://narashikanko.or.jp/event/gangouji-yakansanpai/

※This English text has been generated based on machine translation.

17/10/2024

Discover Nara by Night at the Annual Night Market!
Get ready for a fun-filled night in Nara! The 8th "Moichido Yoichi & Konishi Yoichi" night market will be held on October 18th and 19th in Konishi Sakura-dori Shopping Street and Mochidono Center Street, both located near Kintetsu Nara Station.

This annual event, which has been running for 8 years now, transforms the usually quiet streets into a bustling night market filled with food stalls, unique shops, and exciting activities. Enjoy a variety of local delicacies, souvenirs, and hands-on experiences from Nara and surrounding areas. Let's prove that Nara's nightlife is anything but early!

■Place:Konishi Sakura-dori Shopping Street, Mochiidono Center Street
■Dates:October 18 and 19
■Time:About 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
■Access:About 15 min. walk from JR Nara Stn. or near Kintetsu Nara Stn.
※The event period and content are subject to change or cancellation without notice.
※Image courtesy of Yoruichi Executive Committee
For more information (only in Japanese), click here https://yoichi-nara.jimdofree.com/



※This English text has been generated based on machine translation.

16/10/2024

Experience the Nighttime Beauty of Kofuku-ji Temple!

Join the Autumn Night Nara Trip 2024 event from November 1st to 30th, every Friday, Saturday, and November 3rd, to enjoy the ancient capital of Nara in the evening. As part of this event, the World Heritage site, Kofuku-ji Temple, will be hosting a Special Nighttime Visit of its Chūkon-dō Hall.

Don't miss the limited-edition "Nighttime Visit Cutting Paper Goshuin" (additional fee required).

Admire the magnificent wooden statues of the Four Heavenly Kings (a National Treasure) and the vibrant Hōsō pillars. The hall, reconstructed to its original scale and specifications from the Nara period, offers a breathtaking sight at night.

Kofuku-ji Temple Chūkon-dō Hall Special Nighttime Visit
■Dates: November 1st, 2nd, 8th, 9th, 15th, 16th, 22nd, 23rd, 29th, and 30th, 2024
■Time: 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM (Doors close temporarily at 5:00 PM. Last entry at 7:45 PM)
■Admission Fee: Adults (including university students) ¥500, Students (junior and high school) ¥300, Children (elementary school) ¥200. Preschoolers are free.
※Goshuin stamps are available until 8:00 PM.
※Reservations are not required.

[Image: Kofuku-ji Temple Chūkon-dō Hall]

For more details on access and other information, please visit:
https://narashikanko.or.jp/event/kohfukuji-yakansanpai/



※This English text has been generated based on machine translation.

12/10/2024

C'festa Food Festival Comes to Nara Park! ️

The "Nara Food Festival C'festa" will be held at Noboroji Park in Nara Park from October 12th to 20th. Now in its 16th year, this festival celebrates Nara's local ingredients and talented chefs.

Enjoy a variety of delicious treats, including:

Chef's Kitchen: Indulge in gourmet dishes prepared by popular chefs from Nara and beyond.
Chef's Yatai: Savor affordable and delicious bites at these food stalls.
Aozora Pizza: Enjoy freshly baked pizza from a stone oven under the open sky.
New this year! A special premium event featuring popular Nara dishes like ramen and curry will be held on weekends and holidays throughout the festival period.

Experience the largest food festival in Nara, surrounded by lush greenery and savoring dishes made with local ingredients.

Photo courtesy of Nara Food Festival Secretariat. Please note that the photo is from a previous event.

Nara Food Festival C'festa
Noboroji Park, Nara Park (South of Nara Prefectural Government Office)
■Date:October 12th - 20th, 2024
■Time:10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
■Fee:Free admission
■Access:Take a Nara Kotsu Bus (inner city loop) from JR or Kintetsu Nara Station and get off at "Kenchō-mae" (Prefectural Government Office)
*Event details are subject to change or cancellation without notice.
For more information, please visit: http://nara-foodfestival.jp/
C'festa Official Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nara.foodfestival/



※This English text has been generated based on machine translation.

奈良食材とシェフの交流を目的とし「奈良グルメ再発見」につながるグルメイベント「シェフェスタ」。緑豊かな公園内で、日替わりシェフのイベント限定料理（シェフズキッチン）や、カフェメニュー･手作りのお弁当が...

12/10/2024

Witness the Traditional Deer Antler Cutting Ceremony!

The ancient "Deer Antler Cutting" ceremony will be held at the Kasuga Taisha Shrine Deer Garden (within Nara Park) from October 12th to 14th.

This tradition, passed down for approximately 350 years since the Edo period, symbolizes the coexistence of deer and people in Nara. Skilled handlers will chase and corner majestic male deer to cut off their antlers, which are then offered to the gods. This is a rare opportunity to witness the thrilling spectacle of the antler cutting ceremony.

Deer Antler Cutting Ceremony
■Place:Kasuga Taisha Shrine Deer Garden (within Nara Park)
■Dates: October 12th, 13th, and 14th, 2024
■Time: 11:45 AM - 3:00 PM (Gates open at 11:15 AM, last entry at 2:30 PM)
*The event will proceed in light rain, but will be canceled in case of severe weather.
*Completely reserved seating, all standing (paid admission)
*Admission fee (same-day tickets only): Adults (junior high school students and older) 1,000 yen, Children (elementary school students) 500 yen

*For more details, please visit https://naradeer.com/event/tsunokiri.html
*Photo shows a past event



※This English text has been generated based on machine translation.

08/10/2024

Special Nighttime Visit to the National Treasure Main Hall and Thousand-Lantern Illumination at Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Enjoy the ancient capital city under the autumn night sky at , held every Friday and Saturday from 11/1 (Fri.) to 30 (Sat.) and on 11/3 (Sun., national holiday) (specific dates and times for the nighttime visits may vary depending on the shrine or temple). At the World Heritage site of , a special nighttime visit to the National Treasure Main Hall and a thousand-lantern illumination will take place.
Visitors can enjoy a special nighttime visit to the vermilion-lacquered Main Hall (a National Treasure), followed by a breathtaking sight of approximately 1,000 hanging lanterns illuminating the main hall corridor.

Kasuga Taisha Shrine: Special Nighttime Visit to the National Treasure Main Hall and Thousand-Lantern Illumination
■Dates: November 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd (Holiday), and 30th, 2024
■Time: 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM (Gates temporarily close at 5:00 PM. Last entry at 7:45 PM)
■Admission Fee: 700 yen
*Goshuin (sacred stamp) available until 8:00 PM
*Reservations are not required

[Image: Thousand-Lantern Illumination at Kasuga Taisha Shrine]
For more details on access and other information, please visit: https://narashikanko.or.jp/event/kasugataisha-yakansanpai/

03/10/2024

**A Music Festival in the Heart of Nara City and Nara Park **
The 9th Kasugano Music Festival will be held on October 6th. Kasuga Taisha, known as the root of various traditional performing arts such as Noh, Bugaku, and Gagaku due to its connection to Shinto rituals, will host an outdoor music festival featuring a diverse range of music. Now in its 9th year, performances will take place at six venues including the Kasuga Taisha grounds (Kurumaya, Tobihino) and Ukiunienji Park in Nara Park.

The 9th Kasugano Music Festival
■Date: 10/6 , 2024
■Time: 10:00-16:30
■Venue: Kasuga-taisha Shrine (Kurumasha and Tobihino), in front of Nara National Museum, Nara Park (Ukigumo Enchi), Himuro Shrine, Nara Park Bus Terminal
■Information: Kintetsu Nara Station, JR Nara Station
■Admission: Free
*There is no parking for event visitors. Please use public transportation to reach the venue.
*The event is subject to change or cancellation without notice.

For more information (Japanese only)
Kasugano Music Festival Official Website▶https://kasuganofes.jp/
Kasugano Music Festival Facebook ▶https://www.facebook.com/kasuganofes/

※This English text has been generated based on machine translation.

春日大社の「第60次式年造替」を祝して2015年からスタートした奈良の野外音楽フェス。地元アーティストや著名人による奉納演奏、一般参加型の大合奏・大合唱など､奈良駅前から春日大社にかけて、多種多様なステージで...

02/10/2024

Calling all beer lovers! The Nara Craft Beer Festival is happening in Nara Park on October 5th and 6th. Explore a variety of craft beers brewed in Nara and surrounding areas. Enjoy the festive atmosphere with food stalls and live music. Don't miss out!

You can enjoy beer by purchasing a special beer cup (100 yen) and a ticket (choice of 5 or 10 tickets) and exchanging it for a ticket at each booth.

【The 5th Nara Craft Beer Festival】
■Venue: Nara Park Todaiji Park
■Date: 10/5 and 10/6, 2024
■Time: 10:00-17:00 (last order 16:30)
■Admission: Free (beer and food served by ticket)
■Access: Nara Kotsu Bus (City Circulation Outer Circuit) from JR/Kintetsu Nara Stn. to Kencho-mae Bus Stop.
or 5 min. walk from Kintetsu Nara Stn.

For more information, please visit (Only in Japanese)
▶https://nara-craftbeer-2024.glide.page/
Facebook
▶https://www.facebook.com/nara.craftbeer/


※This English text has been generated based on machine translation.

01/10/2024

Experience the serene fusion of tradition and modernity at the Irie Taikichi Memorial Nara City Photography Museum.

Taikichi Irie's photographs capture the essence of ancient Nara, not just as landscapes but also as reflections of the lives of its people, history, and the vitality of nature. The masterful use of light and shadow is simply breathtaking. If you're a landscape photography enthusiast, you'll surely resonate with his works.

Designed by renowned architect Kisho Kurokawa, the museum harmonizes beautifully with the historical surroundings of Shin Yakushi-ji Temple. Most of the exhibition spaces are located underground, with glass walls allowing natural light to illuminate the interior. The tiled roof and the reflections on the outdoor pond add to the architectural charm.

Why not immerse yourself in art in a tranquil setting during your trip to Nara?

Beyond Irie's permanent collection, the museum regularly hosts exhibitions by emerging photographers. During my visit, I was captivated by Minoki Nakano's "The New Land," a two-part series featuring Hokkaido.

【Exhibition Information of Tosh*taka Nakanishi “The New Land”】
・Dates: September 7 (Sat) - November 24 (Sun), 2024

【Taikichi Irie Memorial Nara City Museum of Photography】
■Address: 600-1 Takabatake-cho, Nara City
■Access: 5 min. by bus from Kintetsu Nara Stn. to Hakuishi-cho, 12 min. walk
■Hours: 9:30-17:00 (admission until 16:30)
■Closed: Mondays (or the nearest weekday if the Monday falls on a national holiday), the day following a national holiday (if the holiday falls on a weekday), during exhibition change periods (upon request), year-end and New Year holidays (December 27 - January 3)
■Official website: http://naracmp.en/

＼Extra Info／
Please visit the former residence of Taikichi Irie, which I have posted before.
【Former Residence of Taikichi Irie】
■Address: 49-2, Suimon-cho, Nara City, Nara



※This English text has been generated based on machine translation.

11/09/2024

Escape the hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of ancient Nara at the Former Daijoin Temple Garden.
Located just a short walk south of the Nara Hotel, the Formeer Daijoin Temple Garden is a masterpiece designed by the renowned garden architect Zenami during the Muromachi period. This tranquil oasis offers a peaceful retreat where you can slow down and appreciate the beauty of nature.

At the heart of the garden lies a tranquil pond, reflecting the surrounding landscape and creating a serene atmosphere. Throughout the year, the garden offers a stunning display of colors and textures, with a particularly breathtaking autumn foliage. Immerse yourself in Japanese culture with special events like tea ceremonies and night viewings. This harmonious blend of nature and culture makes the Former Daijoin Temple Garden a truly enchanting destination.

【Moonlight Viewing in the Garden】
Don't miss our upcoming Moon Viewing event!
Join us on September 17th for a magical evening under the full moon. The garden will be illuminated with soft lights, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere. Enjoy a traditional tea ceremony while admiring the beauty of the moonlit garden.A limited number of tea ceremony seats will be offered during our special Mid-Autumn Moon Festival event.

・Date: September 17th
・Time: 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM
・Admission: ¥300
・Tea Ceremony: ¥700 (limited seating)

Please note: Event may be canceled due to inclement weather.
Visit us today and experience the tranquility of the Former Daijoin Temple Garden.

▶Former Daijoin Temple Garden
●Address: 1083-1 Takabatake-cho, Nara City
●Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
●Closed: Mondays
(except national holidays), Year-end and New Year holidays (Dec 26 - Jan 5)
●Fee:
　・Adults (High school students and above) ¥200
　・Children (Elementary and junior high school students) ¥100,
　・Infants (under elementary school age) free
●Access:
　・From JR Nara Station or Kintetsu Nara Station, take the Nara Kotsu bus bound for Tenri or Shimoyama and get off at "Nara Hotel-mae" bus stop.
　・Approximately 20-minute walk from JR Nara Station or 15-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station.
・Parking: Not available.



※This English text has been generated based on machine translation.

09/09/2024

＼Discover the Hidden Gems of Nara: Nara Go Round ／
Shin-Yakushiji Temple, a historic landmark in Takabatake, was founded in 747 by Empress Kōmyō to pray for the recovery of her husband, Emperor Shōmu. The temple's principal image, a seated statue of Yakushi Nyorai, is a national treasure renowned for its wide-open eyes. The twelve guardian deities standing around the main image, also national treasures, are truly a sight to behold.

Join us as Chief Priest Jyokan Nakata of Shin-Yakushiji Temple shares his cherished memories and the allure of Takabatake and the temple.

"Nara Go Round" is your guide to exploring the lesser-known areas of Nara City throughout the year. Discover new experiences and create lasting memories.

Continue your journey on the Nara Go Round website(only in Japanese): https://narashikanko.or.jp/naragoround/takabatake/

※This English text has been generated based on machine translation.

05/09/2024

＼Information of the 76th Annual Exhibition of Shoso-in Treasures／
The season for the Shoso-in Exhibition is upon us once again! The 76th Shoso-in Exhibition, to be held from October 26th to November 11th, 2024, will feature 57 precious artifacts from the Shoso-in Treasury, including 10 items that will be exhibited for the first time. The Shoso-in houses approximately 9,000 treasures, primarily personal belongings of Emperor Shomu, who established Todai-ji Temple in the Nara period.

Important Note:
■Advance Reservations Required: Time-limited tickets must be purchased in advance.
■Ticket Sales Start: Tickets will go on sale at designated ticket purchase sites, Lawson convenience stores, and Ministop convenience stores from 10:00 AM on September 6th.
■Limited Availability: Tickets will be sold until the capacity for each time slot is reached.

Exhibition Details:
■Venue: Nara National Museum, East and West New Buildings
■Dates: October 26th (Sat) – November 11th (Mon), 2024
■Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (8:00 PM on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays)
■Please note that the last entry is 60 minutes before closing.

For more information, please visit the official websites:
▶Nara National Museum: https://www.narahaku.go.jp/
▶Shoso-in Exhibition: https://shosoin-ten.jp/

※This English text has been generated based on machine translation.

[Image: 南倉　黄金瑠璃鈿背十二稜鏡】
（Photo provided by the Shoso-in Agency, Imperial Household Agency.）

29/08/2024

【Information of typhoon】
As of August 29, typhoon no.10 is approaching Kansai region including Nara City.
Please kindly be noted that there may be suspension of public transport and closure of temple,shrines,and tourist facilities from August 30 to September 2.
Make sure to stay up to date on safety information at Nara City official website.
You can also check the latest public transport information on the following website if you need to use trains.

Major train lines related to Nara：https://railwayinfo.jp/en/

[JR West] 　https://global.trafficinfo.westjr.co.jp/en/kansai/
●Nara Line
●Yamatoji Line

[Kintetsu Railway]　 https://www.kintetsu.co.jp/foreign/english/

▶Please refer to the following websites for emergency information.
Nara City Official Website
https://www-city-nara-lg-jp.translate.goog/life/1/4/?_x_tr_sl=ja&_x_tr_tl=en&_x_tr_hl=ja

26/08/2024

Tucked away in Nara is Takabatake Salon, a hidden gem with a charming secret. Built in 1919 with a Western-style facade, sunlight filters through the lush greenery overhead, casting a dappled light on the open-air terrace.

As you enter, the cheerful greeting of "Welcome back!" fills the air. Takabatake Salon is a bit of a local secret, with an unassuming entrance hidden off the main street.

Imagine yourself curled up with a good book on this hidden terrace, a cup of freshly brewed coffee warming your hands. Or, perhaps a refreshing iced tea or a vibrant slice of muscat squash, the bright colors popping against the verdant backdrop.

But the true heart of Takabatake Salon is Ms. Kinoriko Nakamura, the owner. Her warm smile and infectious sense of humor create an atmosphere that instantly uplifts anyone who walks through the door. No wonder this secret spot attracts so many loyal customers!

Unfortunately, the full story is only available in Japanese on the Nara Go Round website: https://narashikanko.or.jp/naragoround/takabatake/



※This English text has been generated based on machine translation.