The shadow of the Kofuki-ji Five-Story Pagoda extends over the surface of the pond, adding to a scene which changes with the seasons. This sight brings a feeling of peace to the hearts of those who visit the ancient capital.
Nearby the pond stands the Uneme Shrine, dedicated to a maid-in-waiting who once threw herself into the pond.
TEL: 0742-26-1991 (Sarusawa Pond Tourist Information Center)
Originally built in Yamashina, Yamashiro Province and called Yamashina Temple, after the Asuka period it was moved to its current location in 710. During the Nara period it was considered one of the four great temples.
TEL: 0742-22-7755
The Fujiwara Clan is said to have started the practice of hanging lanterns as a means of prayer for their patron god, and today nearly 1,000 lanterns hang here.
The site is also renowned for its early-summer wisteria, and the Sunazuri-no-Fuji Hanging Wisteria flower spikes grow up to one meter long.
The shrine is painted in elegant vermilion, and the treasure hall houses weapons and furnishings offered by the Fujiwara Clan.
TEL: 0742-22-7788
Constructed over 40 years by edict of Emperor Shomu in 741. Known for the Great Buddha of Nara, it is one of the world's largest wooden buildings.
TEL: 0742-22-5511
Located on the eastern side of Nara City, this park is a beautiful area of natural scenery nearby Todaiji, Kofukuji, and Kasuga Taisha. The park is surrounded by numerous national treasures and Cultural Heritage sites.
The majority of the park is covered in grass and is home to nearly 1,200 deer.
These deer act as sorts of mascots for Nara Park, and are quite popular with visitors.
The deer will surely be pleased if you feed them the shika-senbei crackers available in the park for ¥200.
TEL: 0742-22-0375 (Nara Park Management Office)