Understand

Nara, once the splendid capital of Japan from 710 to 784 AD, flourished under the influence of Buddhism. This golden age witnessed the creation of an abundance of cultural treasures, architectural marvels, and invaluable books, many of which are lovingly preserved to this day. Visitors to Nara are delighted by its surpassing collection of National Treasures, the largest in all of Japan. While the mighty Heijky Palace gave way to open fields when the capital relocated to Kyoto, the shrines and temples persevered on the palace's eastern side, known as Gekyo. Buddhism continued to thrive in Nara throughout the centuries, leaving an indelible mark on its landscape. Another part of the city bloomed into a vibrant merchant town, known as Naramachi, particularly during the prosperous Edo period. Today, Naramachi retains its charm, standing as a testament to Nara's fascinating history.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Sushi: Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish consisting of vinegared rice served with various toppings, typically fish or seafood. The rice is usually accompanied by a small piece of nori (seaweed) and sometimes features a dab of wasabi, pickled ginger, or soy sauce. There are many variations, including nigiri (hand-pressed sushi), maki (rolled sushi), and sashimi (slices of raw fish).

Ramen: Ramen is a widely popular soup dish in Japan that includes Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth. It is often garnished with ingredients such as pork, dried seaweed, menma (fermented soybean paste), scallions, and miso paste. The dish can be found in various styles, including tonkotsu (pork bone broth), shoyu (soy sauce broth), and miso.

Tempura: Tempura is a deep-fried dish where seafood, vegetables, or mushrooms are battered and then cooked in hot oil. The light, crispy batter turns golden brown and creates a contrast with the soft textures of the ingredients inside. Traditional tempura elements include shrimp, sweet potato, pumpkin, spinach, and green beans. It is typically served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, Mirin, and dashi.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing