Nara

Discover Nara, prosperous former capital of Japan in the 8th century. Nara's charm lies in its many historic monuments and its magnificent park, also known as the “Deer Park,” which is 1,300 years old.

Legend has it that a deity used a winged white deer to take up position on Mount Mikasa and ensure protection of the new imperial capital. This is why deer are considered divine animals, as they protect Nara and the whole of Japan.

The Tôdai-ji temple has housed, since the 8th century, the largest statue of a seated Buddha in the world, standing nearly 15m tall, and will captivate you with its air of grandeur and majesty. The imposing silhouette of the five-storied pagoda at Kôfuku-ji temple, reflected in the clear waters of Sarusawa-ike pond, will delight you with its delicate mirror image.

The avenue of 2,000 stone lanterns, each covered in a delicate coat of lichen, will lead you to the Kasuga-taisha Shinto shrine, known for its 1,000 bronze lanterns hanging from the beams of the vermilion-lacquered building.

The old Naramachi district, where it is a pleasure to wander through narrow streets lined with merchant houses and traditional shops, offers a fitting way to end your day.