Nara Park in Nara is a popular spot where you can interact with deer, but it may be too crowded for many visitors.
If you want to fully enjoy Nara’s rich historical and cultural heritage, visiting tranquil places away from the crowds is recommended. There are also spots outside of Nara Park where you can encounter deer. Why not step away from the deer and throngs of tourists at Nara Park and immerse yourself in serene, mystical places?
This article introduces quiet, less-visited sites that capture the beauty and spirit of Nara without the crowds.
Exploring the Hidden Charms of Nishinokyo Area in Nara
The Nishinokyo area, located in the western part of Nara City, is a region where history and nature are beautifully integrated. Once a part of the ancient capital of Heijo-kyo, this area exudes a quiet and serene atmosphere, providing visitors with a sense of deep tranquility.
Nishinokyo was an important component of Heijo-kyo, established during the Nara period, and was home to many aristocratic residences. Today, it still resonates with history through its ancient burial mounds and scattered UNESCO World Heritage temples and ruins, making it a captivating area for history enthusiasts.
This region’s blend of peaceful natural settings and profound historical significance creates a unique charm that draws visitors seeking a deeper understanding of Japan’s rich past.
The World Heritage Sites, Yakushiji Temple and Toshodaiji Temple, are within walking distance from the Kintetsu Line’s “Nishinokyo” station. Additionally, there are bus routes available from Nara Park and JR Nara Station to this area.
Naramachi: A Blend of Old and New in Nara’s Streets
“Naramachi” is a historic district located in the heart of Nara City.
This area retains a strong sense of old Nara, with former merchants’ houses and townhouses still standing. Just wandering through its scenic streets offers glimpses into the traditional Japanese way of life, captivating visitors.
The greatest charm of Naramachi lies in its landscape of old townhouses. Many of these buildings are now repurposed as cafes, craft shops, and boutiques, beautifully blending traditional architecture with modern uses. Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture through shops selling handmade goods and small restaurants that serve dishes made with local ingredients.
This map shows the central area of Naramachi. There are various other shops beyond this area, and by walking around, you can fully enjoy the charm of Naramachi.
Kitamachi: A Fusion of Historical Background and Modern Culture
Kitamachi: A Fusion of Historical Background and Modern Culture
Nara Kitamachi is a district located in the northern part of Nara City, where history and modernity blend into a unique area. Here, one can enjoy the traditional beauty of old Nara alongside a vibrant, new culture. Kitamachi is a relatively newly developed area within Nara, gathering many modern facilities while also featuring historical buildings. The district is characterized by a harmonious blend of old and new architecture.
Kitamachi boasts art galleries and designer shops, making it a gathering spot for creative youth. You can discover studios where local artists work and quirky cafes that offer something different from the usual.
The area is ideal for shopping, with its unique boutiques and the latest trendsetting fashion stores. Additionally, there are many restaurants that utilize local Nara ingredients and shops offering handmade sweets, providing a rich culinary experience.
This area extends north from the location on the map. It’s fairly large, so it’s a good idea to use tools like Google Maps to check routes to shops and restaurants, and to be mindful of the time it takes to get around.
Places to encounter deer in Nara with Encounter Rate
- Todaiji Temple Approach – 99%
- Nara Park Ukigumoen – 95%
- Mount Wakakusa Summit – 88%
- Kasuga Taisha Shrine Approach – 87%
- In front of the Nara National Museum – 85%
- Nara Park Noborioji Garden – 83%
- Mount Wakakusa Base – 80%
- Tobihino – 78%
- Around Aragaike – 75%
- Within the Kofukuji Temple Precincts – 50%
Nara South Area: Exploring Ancient Heritage and Temples
Nara Prefecture is a region steeped in the history of ancient Japan, and it is home to many burial mounds as part of its rich heritage.
These mounds date back to the Nara period and earlier, and were built to bury ancient rulers and important figures. Visiting these sites offers a valuable opportunity to deepen one’s understanding of Japan’s ancient history.
Takamatsuzuka Tomb
A small circular tomb with a diameter of 18m and a height of 5m. In March 1972, colored wall paintings (national treasures) were discovered inside the stone chamber, attracting significant attention as the greatest discovery of the post-war era.
Ishibutai
The Ishibutai is located at the center of the area around the National Asuka Historical Park and is one of the largest square tombs in Japan. The mound of the tomb has completely eroded away, exposing a unique, massive horizontal stone chamber with a lateral corridor. The shape of the ceiling stone is wide and flat, resembling a stage, which is why it has been traditionally called “Ishibutai,” meaning “stone stage.”
Murou-ji Temple
Muro-ji, located in Uda City, Nara Prefecture, is nestled in a scenic mountain area. Known as “Women’s Koyasan” for welcoming female pilgrims when Koyasan did not, the temple is famous for its spring cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. Its five-storied pagoda, a National Treasure, exemplifies fine craftsmanship and natural harmony, making Muro-ji a peaceful retreat rich in history.
Further South of Nara: The Surrounding Area of Mount Yoshino
Mount Yoshino, located in the southern part of Nara Prefecture, is an area rich in history and nature, renowned especially as a cherry blossom destination. In spring, thousands of cherry trees bloom, attracting visitors from both Japan and abroad.
Historically, it has also been a sacred site for Shugendo, an ancient Japanese mountain ascetic practice, dotted with many significant temples and shrines.
Mount Yoshino is divided into four areas, each offering unique attractions: Shimo-Senbon(Lower), Naka-Senbon(Middle), Kami-senbon(Upper), and Naka-Senbon(Inne). These areas are situated at different elevations, which results in staggered cherry blossom seasons.
The region is also rich in cultural assets, with many buildings designated as Important Cultural Properties or National Treasures, allowing visitors to experience ancient Japanese culture and architecture. Important religious sites like Kinpusen-ji Temple and Yoshimizu Shrine provide spiritual renewal and are used for ascetic practices.
For nature enthusiasts, hiking and walking among the lush scenery are recommended. Depending on the season, visitors can enjoy fresh greenery or vibrant autumn colors, fully immersing in the natural beauty of the area.
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