Nara Essential Sightseeing

Recommended spots for autumn exploring

Central Nara: Nara Park Vicinity; Nara Park, where Todai-ji Temple, Kofuku-ji Temple, Kasuga Grand Shrine and Nara’s other tourist attractions are nestled, is beautiful all year round but you must not miss seeing it when the entire park is covered with colored autumn leaves. There are several different kinds of trees (ginko, tallow trees, cherry trees, etc.) in the park. The leaves turn gradually and people can enjoy stunning views for almost one month.; Yoshiki-en Garden; Yoshiki-en Garden is a large and classic Japanese stroll-style garden with a big pond. It hosts a traditional tea ceremony room and has beautiful moss covering the ground. The contrast of the colored leaves and green moss carpet creates an impressive sight. Open everyday: 9:00-17:00 (entry until 16:30); 250 yen; Tel: 0742-22-5911; http://www.narakotsu.co.jp/yoshikien/

Nishinokyo Area: This area is highly suitable for autumn strolling. There are two World Heritage Sites nearby - Yakushi-ji Temple and Toshodai-ji Temple. The path connecting these two temples and their vicinities are pleasantly quiet places in which to enjoy viewing the autumn colored leaves.; Yakushi-ji Temple; The East Pagoda (34 meters high) is the only building existing from the Hakuho Period (8th century) in the Temple. From Oct. 8th to Nov. 10th, an autumn special opening will be held which is a rare chance to see the temple’s valuable treasures. Open: 8:30-17:00 (entry until 16:30); 500 yen (until Sept. 15th), 800 yen (Sept. 15th- Nov. 25th); Tel: 0742-33-6001; http://www.nara-yakushiji.com/

Asuka Area: The Asuka area was one of the imperial capitals of Japan during the Asuka period (538-710). Today, the area is a popular tourist destination because of its rich cultural and natural heritage. From late September, Asuka becomes more beautiful with bright red spider lilies flowering everywhere.; Asuka Temple; Established in 596 by Soga-no-Umako who was an enthusiastic supporter of Buddhism, Asuka Temple was originally a massive temple complex (one historical record says it was three times as large as Horyu-ji Temple). "Yakushi Nyorai", is the earliest large-sized Buddha statue in Japan, and is designated as an important cultural asset. Open: 9:00-17:15 (until 16:45 from Oct. 1st); 300 yen; Tel: 0744-54-2126.

Yoshino Area: Yoshino Mountain; You will be amazed at the magnificent autumn view of Yoshino mountains. About 30,000 cherry trees with colored leaves create an amazing sight. There are some historical temples and shrines on the way, as well as many souvenir and Yoshino specialty shops. The Yoshino area is roughly divided into three areas: Kami Senbon, Naka Senbon and Shimo Senbon and each area has different attractions.

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