Travel Japan Nara:
Nara, a previous imperial capital of Japan in 710 to 784, lies a mere 30 miles south of Kyoto, and is a good side trip from a stay in Kyoto. The area is known for its Buddhist temples and deer park. Nara is a study of Buddhism in Japan, with the famous Todaiji Temple, Kofukuji Temple, and Kasuga Shrine.
Travel Japan Nara - Getting there
Getting from Kyoto to Nara is quite easy, except for the ill informed. You can go on the JR Nara Line or the Kintetsu Nara Line. The JR Nara Line takes about one hour, and the Kintetsu Nara Line takes about 45 minutes. If possible take the Limited Express, for just over 30 minutes. The JR Nara station and Kintetsu Nara station are about 10 minutes walking apart.
Nara - Sightseeing
Kofukuji Temple is first on the tour from either the JR Nara station or the Kintetsu Nara station. Perhaps the most famous structure here is the five story pagoda, built in 730 and subsequently burned down five times.
Todaiji Temple is the temple of the Daibutsu, or Great Buddha. The Buddha is the largest bronze statue of Buddha in Japan and is a must see.
Kasuga Grand Shrine is the Shinto shrine of the Fujiwara family who lived in Nara during feudal Japan days. It is known for its 3,000 stone and bronze lanterns, which are lit around the beginning of February.
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