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Nearby Tourist Spots Outside the Prefecture

Mount Koya|Sacred Site of Kobo Daishi’s Prayers

Mount Koya, founded by Kobo Daishi, is the center of Shingon Buddhism. Visit World Heritage sites like Danjo Garan and Okunoin, and enjoy temple stays, vegetarian meals, and morning rituals—a spiritual escape near Nara.
Walking

Yamanobe Trail|Japan’s Oldest Road and Ancient Tombs

Yamanobe Trail is Japan’s oldest road, stretching along the foothills of the Nara Basin. It links Isonokami and Omiwa Shrines and passes by ancient tombs including the Hashihaka Kofun, possibly Queen Himiko’s. Walk through history and legend.
Shrines

Isonokami Shrine|One of Japan’s Oldest Shinto Shrines

Isonokami Shrine is one of Japan’s oldest. Once the shrine of the Mononobe clan and an imperial armory, it is famous for the legendary Seven-Branched Sword.
Culture & History

Imai Town|Step Back into Edo-Era Japan

Imai Town in Kashihara city, just a 10-minute walk from JR or Kintetsu Station, is Japan’s largest preserved district of Edo-period townhouses with about 500 traditional houses. This historic moated town lets you step back in time.
Temples

Muroji Temple|Sacred Retreat Known as Women’s Koya

Muroji Temple, a Shingon Buddhist site known as Women’s Koya, sits in a serene mountain retreat. Climb stone steps through giant cedars to find its stunning main hall, five-story pagoda, and peaceful Inner Sanctuary.
Temples

Hasedera Temple|Kannon Statue & Seasonal Flowers

Hasedera Temple is a famous flower temple in Nara, featuring beautiful peonies, hydrangeas, and other seasonal blooms. Walk the 399-step staircase and feel the gentle compassion of the Kannon statue. A historic pilgrimage site loved by many.
Culture & History

Asuka|Discover Japan’s Ancient Capital and Living History

Step back 1,400 years in Asuka, Japan’s first true capital. Explore ancient temples, mysterious stone monuments. Set in peaceful countryside, Asuka is perfect for slow travel by bike or on foot—just an hour from Nara.
Shrines

Omiwa Shrine|Japan’s Oldest Shrine at Sacred Mount Miwa

Omiwa Shrine is said to be Japan’s oldest shrine, where Mount Miwa itself is worshipped as the deity. With no main hall, prayers are offered directly to the sacred mountain. The shrine is believed to bring blessings for health, sake, industry, and matchmaking.
Culture & History

Mount Yoshino|Japan’s Most Famous Cherry Blossoms & Heritage Walk

Mount Yoshino is known for Japan’s most famous cherry blossoms, which bloom in stages from Shimo-senbon to Oku-senbon. Explore World Heritage sites like Zao Hall and the legends of Yoshitsune and Emperor Go-Daigo.
Temples

Horyuji Temple|World’s Oldest Wooden Architecture in Nara

Horyuji Temple is the world’s oldest wooden structure and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded by Prince Shotoku, it houses many National Treasures and Buddhist statues. Discover its 1,400-year history and how to visit.