NaraExplorer

Special souvenirs of Nara to take home!

magazine

Nara Explorer is Nara's first and only English tourist magazine.

Our inaugual first issue will be published in June.

For further information,click here.

Yoshida Kaya: (Central Nara/traditional mosquito nets & linen goods); Modern and stylish linen goods born from Nara’s traditional industry

<Overview>: In days gone by, almost 90% of Japan’s mosquito nets (kaya) were produced in Nara and mosquito netting was Nara’s main industry. Though rarely used any more, Yoshida Kaya still continues the tradition and also makes stylish contemporary linen goods for a modern lifestyle based on their experience. Soft and delicately colored noren curtains, stoles and luncheon mats are all on display in the shop. An outstanding selection is the Naramachi kitchen linen which absorbs water very well. Their lightness and soft color will surely match your room interior and fashion.

<Recommended Items>: Noren curtain: from 6,820 yen; Naramachi kitchen linen: from 260 yen; Stole: from 3,990 yen; Luncheon mat: from 1,360 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-23-3381; In the Naramachi area, about 100 meters to the east of Naramachi Museum; Open: 9:00-18:00; www.naramachi.com

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Kite Mite Nara Shop: (Central Nara/Nara local goods & souvenirs); All kinds of Nara’s goods, souvenirs and foods are here together!

<Overview>: If you want to look at a wide variety of local souvenirs and goods from Nara, Kite Mite Nara Shop is the perfect place. The perfect small gift for your friends or family, superb art works by experienced craftsmen, food using Nara’s local special ingredients, accessories, carvings made of deer bone… You are sure to discover ‘that special something’ that reflects the warmth of the handiwork of Nara’s craftsmen or the seasonal atmosphere. Major credit cards accepted.

<Recommended Items>: Natural plant dyeing tapestry: 6,825 yen; Akahada-yaki ceramic coffee cups: 7,350 yen; Deer horn carving: from 1,365 yen; Glass dolls: from 10,500 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-26-8828; A 2-min. walk from Kintetsu Nara Sta., 1F of Nara Commerce & Tourism Bldg.; Open: 10:00-18:00; Closed: Mon.

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Pastel Records: (Central Nara/CD Records & CD); An unusual shop collecting together unique kinds of world indie label music

<Overview>: Pastel Records is a small shop but the range of music it offers is not. Mainly electronic and folk music released from domestic and international indie labels are available. The owner’s current favorite recommendation is a combination of a photo book and a CD titled “Sound of Sand” on which a Nara-based musician, Motohiro Nakajima, created music to accompany photos of the Tottori sand dunes. Visit Pastel Record and discover some of your favorite music.

<Recommended Items>: Sound of Sand: 2,600 yen (available only at Pastel Records)

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-26-6933; Yume Cube G, one the east side of Mochiidono Center Arcade, about 400 meters from the north entrance; Open: 11:00-20:00; Closed: Thurs.; http://www.pastelrecords.com/

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Fujita Unkou-tei: (Central Nara/Washi Japanese paper & paper crafts); Warmth of hand-made Washi paper crafts in an 80-year old Japanese house

<Overview>: Fujita Unkou-tei has been located at its present location since 1935. When the present shop manager, Ms. Fujita, married and moved here about 40 years ago, the family decided to renovate the shop and began to sell fine quality Japanese Washi paper and attractive paper crafts. Ms. Fujita’s recommended item is their original postcards which have the warm touch of hand painted scenes of Nara. There are many handmade, one-of-a-kind goods available, including deer clay bells and Washi paper accessories.

<Recommended Items>: Fujita Unkou-tei original Nara postcards (Set of 3 cards): 315 yen; Washi paper post cards: from 158 yen; Deer clay bells: 1,680 yen; Paper dolls: from 2,100 yen; Washi paper accessories: from 1,575 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-22-2082; On the west side of Mochiidono Shopping Center Arcade, about 300 meters from the North entrance; Open: 11:00-18:00; Closed: Thurs; http://www.jin.ne.jp/unkoutei/

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Ku-ho: (Central Nara/Tombo-dama glasses, glass crafts, do-it-yourself glass making experience); Unlimited number of colorful handmade glass crafts

<Overview>: Kuho is a small shop and studio located in the Naramachi Kobo, an area where several shops and studios are gathered. The interior of Kuho is overflowing with colorful and delicate glass crafts. All of them are handmade by the owner, Ms. Masako Takahata, a glass craft artist. Every piece is a result of her sensitivity, masterful technique and coincidence. Therefore, no two same designs exist. Tombo-dama glass beads can be enjoyed as accessories and for decoration. Other popular goods are rings, glass wares and accessories. You can also try your hand at making your own original Tombo-dama glass beads with the aid of English instructions.

<Recommended Items>: Rings: from 3,000 yen; Hair accessories: from 2,300 yen; Glass wares: from 2,500 yen; Tombo-dama glass beads: from 3,000 yen; Tombo-dama making experience: 5,500 yen (two original Tombo-dama; the session lasts about 2 hours; reservation required by fax three days in advance)

<Shop Data>: Tel/Fax: 0742-26-0493; 1F of Naramachi Kobo, in Naramachi area, a-5min. walk to the southeast from Gango-ji Temple; Open: 10:00-18:00; Closed: Mon.

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Matsumori: (Central Nara/Japanese ceramics and lacquer ware); Specializing in traditional Japanese ceramics and lacquer wares since 1871

<Overview>: Matsumori offers a wide range of traditional Japanese ceramics, lacquer ware and also glass ware from famous production areas all over Japan. Nara’s Akahada-yaki potteries with traditional Nara scenes are especially recommended. Tea cups and plates decorated with classic Japanese patterns called Shoso Monyo (from famous Shoso-in Temple) are Matsumori’s original. Choose one of Matsumori’s fine ceramics or pieces of lacquer ware for a memento of your Nara trip.

<Recommended Items>: Akahada-yaki ceramics: from 2,000 yen; Shoso Monyo pattern wares: 1,100-2,500 yen; Others: from 1,000 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel:0742-22-2037; On the right side of Mochiidono Shopping Center, near the north entrance; Open: 9:00-20:00; Closed: Thurs.; http://homepage2.nifty.com/matsumori/

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Sikaya: (Central Nara/Souvenirs, Kimono, samurai & ninja goods); Come and have some fun with kimono & samurai goods!

<Overview>: Sikaya is located on the approach to Todai-ji Temple. In this spacious shop, you will find a great variety of souvenirs: Nara specialties, traditional Japanese dolls, kimono, and much more. Sikaya is recommended for their kimono, samurai and ninja goods. Get a set of kimono for your unforgettable Japanese experience. Shikaya offers a wide range of reasonable kimono (even for pregnant mothers!). What is more, they offer tax-free shopping (passport required).

<Recommended Menu>: Sword replicas, swords for iai martial art: 2,980-200,000 yen; Ninja suits: for children: 4,200 yen (with plastic toy swords); for adults: 10,500 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-22-3181; On the west side of the approach to Todai-ji Temple; Open: 9:00-17:00 (changed seasonally); Closed irregularly; http://www.sikaya.co.jp/

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Ezuya: (Central Nara / Nara character goods/souvenirs); A number of interesting and pretty Nara character goods

<Overview>: Ezuya, just opened last March, is a shop which sells a number of original or interesting “Nara character” goods: Sento-kun (official mascot of the 1,300th anniversary of Nara Heijo-kyo Capital), Manto-kun and other cute special Nara characters. Before celebrating the large celebration in 2010, Ezuya has already got much attention from all over Japan. Some goods are available only here. From original Sento-kun T-shirts, mini towels, postcards, fans to cookies, there are about 400 goods. Come to Ezuya and find your favorite Nara character!

<Shopping Recommendations>: Sento-kun/Manto-kun strap: from 315 yen; Sento-kun mascot pens: 525 yen; Sento-kun/Manto-kun T-shirts: from 2,300 yen; Sento-kun cookies: from 530 yen; Towels/handkerchiefs: from 380 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-23-3131; On the west site of Mochiidono Center Arcade, about 150 meters from the north entrance; Open: 10:00-19:000; Closed: irregularly; http://www.ezuya.jp/

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Maruju Bussan: (Central Nara/Souvenirs); Take a traditional Japanese Kaki-shibu fan and get yourself cool down

<Overview>: One of Nara’s agricultural specialties is the persimmon (kaki). At Maruju Bussan, they produce a special Japanese folding fan (sensu) which is dyed by natural persimmon tannin (kaki-shibu). Persimmon tannin is effective for preventing rotting and water proof, so that a fan will last long. In addition, the longer you will use is, the more it will get an original effect as time goes. Summer in Japan is known for its humidity. Why not taking a fan from Maruju Bussan and cool down yourself as people in old Nara did?

<Recommended items>: Kakishibu (persimmon leaf dyed) fan: 3,780 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-26-6337; At the foot of Mount Wakakusa, a 10-min. walk from Todai-ji Temple; Open: 9:00-18:00 open everyday

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Harushika Sake Brewery: (Central Nara / Japanese sake brewery and shop); Taste fresh Japanese sake in a classic sake brewery

<Overview>: Nara is considered to be the birth place of Japanese sake. The brewery’s best sellers is “Cho-karakuchi (super dry)” which is exported to and enjoyed in over 10 countries. Highly recommended are “Tokimeki”, which tastes like champagne, and the Daiginjo “Harushika” with it’s rich aroma. Try their sake tasting (400 yen) and find your favorite.

<Recommended items>: Sake tasting: 400 yen; Tokimeki: 493 yen (300ml); Daiginjo Harushika: 2,625-5,250 yen (720ml-1.8 litter)

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-23-2255; A 3-min. walk from Ganko-ji Temple to the west, on the left side; Open everyday: 8:15-17:15; http://www.harushika.com/

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Seishi-en: (Central Nara/original Nara accessories); A variety of pretty goods hand-made in Nara & Itto-bori carving display

<Overview>: In the Naramachi area, the historical and nostalgic center of Nara, there is a stylish space where you can find a gallery, a café and some shops. One of these shops is Seishi-en. Seishi-en started as a shop specializing in Nara’s traditional arts and crafts. The present third generation master himself is an earnest carver in Nara’s traditional Itto-bori carving style. His carvings are on display - from classic forms to cute and modern styles. The shops has a variety of pretty hand-made accessories and goods using Nara’s special linen textile.

<Shopping Recommendations>: Hair accessory: 400 yen; Mobile phone strap: 380 yen; Nara-sarashi textile pouch: 1,300 yen; Please enquire about the Itto-bori carving

<Shop Data>: Tel: 080-5333-0720; South of Sanjo Street, on the left side, in the KAI gallery space; Open: 11:00-18:00; Closed: Mon.; http://blogs.yahoo.co.jp/seishienakira

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Nara Crafts Museum: (Central Nara/Traditional Nara crafts exhibit and shop); Experience the long history of Nara’s traditional crafts

<Overview>: A wide range of traditional Nara crafts are displayed here including works by living National Treasures who specialize in Itto-bori wood carving, Akahada-yaki ceramics, calligraphy brushes and inks, deer horn crafts, and more. There are special exhibitions and demonstrations by real craftsmen held occasionally. Prince Charles and his wife visited the museum last autumn and marveled at the beauty of Nara’s traditional crafts. In the museum shop, you can find a variety of Nara craft goods (old & new, reasonable & higher prices). Visit the museum and learn more about Nara culture.

<Shopping Recommendations>: Itto-bori carving dolls: from 3,675 yen; Akahada-yaki ceramics: from 2,000 yen; Deer horn crafts: from 880 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-27-0033; Go through Mochiidono and Shimomikado Shopping Arcade and turn right, about 50 meters on the right side.; Open: 10:00-21:00; Closed: Mon.; http://www.eonet.ne.jp/~naramachi/

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Okai: (Central Nara/ Nara-sarashi linen textile goods); Nara-sarashi linen textile and goods

<Overview>: Nara is famous for the production of linen or Nara-sarashi. Since the early Edo period (1600-1868), it has been regarded as the best quality linen in Japan. Okai, which started in 1863, preserves the tradition of Nara-sarashi and actively produces new goods for modern life styles. From classic white cloth for the tea ceremony to modern interior goods (tapestries, parasols, samue Japanese pant suits, table centers, etc.). They are all dyed with natural plants which have a deep and warm color. In addition, designs which use Nara-e pictures or historical patterns related to Shoso-in Temple add a sense of history.

<Shopping Recommendations>: Nara-sarashi pouch: from 2,625 yen; Parasol: 15,750 yen; Kakishibu-dyed bag: 7,875 yen; Hats: 6,720 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-24-7119; In the Higashimuki Shopping Arcade, about 200 meters from Sanjo Street, on the left side; Open: 10:00-19:000; http://www.okaimafu.com

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Antique Kimono SAO: (Central Nara / old kimono, original accessories); Great value kimono and cute original accessories - find you favorite!

<Overview>: Only a few minutes walk from Sarusawa Pond, you will find a unique looking shop. This small, interesting shop is full of goods you can’t find anywhere else. You shouldn’t miss their great value old kimono selection (from only 500 yen!). Some are over 100 years old and some are quite new. The owner herself makes original accessories using old kimono fabric.

<Shopping Recommendations>: Old kimono: from 500 yen; Traditional Japanese dolls: from 500 yen; Original accessories: from 250 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 090-8576-0281; A 3-min. walk from Sarusawa Pond to the southeast, on the west side of the street; Open: 12:00-17:000; Closed: irregularly; http://www5f.biglobe.ne.jp/~mukashikimonosao/

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YUMEIDO: (Central Nara/ Japanese antiques & maccha green tea); Authentic Japanese antiques from the old capital

<Overview>: At Yumeido, you can see a wide variety of authentic Japanese antiques; from ceramics, hanging scrolls, tea ceremony tools to Buddhist art. There is a café in the shop where people can try traditional maccha green tea with seasonal home-made sweets. Stop in at Yumeido and have a bowl of green tea surrounded by Japanese history.

<Recommended items>: Japanese antiques: from 5,000 yen; Maccha green tea with traditional sweet: 1,000 yen; Thick maccha green tea with traditional sweet: 1,500 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-22-3301; Across from Nara National Museum; Open: everyday 10:00-18:30

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Zeitaku-mame Hompo: (Central Nara / Japanese confectioneries & Nara souvenirs); The perfect place to look for sweets and souvenirs of Nara in a traditional atmosphere

<Overview>: They sell various kinds of traditional Japanese confectionery: rice crackers, cakes, sweets, candies, dumplings, fried-dough cookies, and more! Most of the packs are only a few hundreds yen and you can easily bring them with you on your travels around Nara or take them back home. A wide range of other Nara souvenirs are also available.

<Recommended items>: Japanese bean confectioneries: from 105 yen; Rice crackers: from 105 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-22-6061; On the north side of Sanjo, across from movie theater; Open: 10:00-20:00 (until 19:00 in winter); Close: Tues; http://www.z-mame.com/

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sisi: (Central Nara / original textile bags); Unique and colorful textile bags from Bali

<Overview>: The name of the shop, “sisi” means “standing close by” in Indonesian. The shop owner hopes that people will use their bags regularly in daily life. A wide range of colorful and original bags using Indonesian, Indian, and Japanese textiles will get your attention. Look for your favorite color, design, size or textile.

<Shopping Recommendations>: Indian block print textile bags: from 3,400 yen; Original textile mother’s bags: from 4,900 yen; Original textile porches: 2,100 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-24-9555; A 5-min. walk to the south of Gango-ji Temple, on the right side; Open: 10:00-18:000; Closed: Wed. and irregularly seasonally; http://www.sisibag.com/

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Ikeda Ganko-do: (Central Nara / Traditional Nara-style uchiwa fans); Fans with elaborate designs from the ancient Nara period

<Overview>: This is the only shop today in Nara which continues the tradition of Nara-style round uchiwa fans and Nara-e picture fans. The round uchiwa fans are decorated with the ancient patterns of elaborate fretwork and the seasonal beauty of Nara. Both fans are perfect for those who appreciate art as well as a practical tool for making a breeze.

<Recommended items>: Nara-style round uchiwa fans: from 1,470 yen; Nara-style fans: from 3,150 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-22-3690; On the north side of Sanjo St., 50 meters to the west from Konishi St.; Open everyday: 9:00-19:00; Closed: Wed. and irregularly seasonally

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Uoman: (Central Nara/KAMABOKO=steamed fish cake); Kamaboko specialty shop with more than a 100-year history

<Overview>: Kamaboko is a traditional Japanese food which is made by steaming minced fish meat. At UOMAN you can watch how kamaboko is made. Some of UOMAN’s skewered type kamaboko (Kuishinbo or buttered potato) taste best when eaten hot. Why not take some of UOMAN’s kamaboko with you to nibble on as you explore Nara!

<Recommended Menu>: Kuishinbo 280yen (6 kinds: skewered deep-fried fish kamaboko with filling: cheese, squid, octopus, Kimchi Korean pickle, etc.); Buttered potato 180yen (skewered deep-fried minced fish meet with buttered potato)

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-22-3709; On the left side of Mochiidono Center Arcade, about 300 meters from the north end; Open: 9:30-19:30; closed irregularly; http://www.uoman.jp

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Kikuoka Kanpo-yaku: (Central Nara/Kanpo Oriental Medicine); Extraordinary Kanpo Oriental Medicine with an 824-year history

<Overview>: Kikuoka Kanpo-yaku has extraordinary long history dating back to 824. Kanpo is an ancient Oriental medicine based on Chinese herbs. Today, the 24th generation shop owner provides the most suitable combination of medicinal herbs depending on your symptoms and physical tendencies. Kanpo is regarded as very gentle on the body and has no known side-effects. Daranisuke is a kanpo created in Nara which is very effective for the digestive system. Ginger candy and ginger drinks have been popular with Japanese people over the ages as natural remedy for colds.

<Recommended items>: Daranisuke digestive medicine: from 1,050 yen (30 pills×27packs); Ginger candy: from 380 yen (70g, about 13 candies); Ginger flavor drink: 550 yen (5 packs)

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-22-6611; A 3-min. walk south from the west side of Sarusawa Pond, at the end of the street (A-1, pg 7 map); Open: 9:00-19:00; Closed: Mon.

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Waryu SO: (Central Nara/Japanese goods, T-shirts); Get one of Waryu SO’s unique and original Nara T-shirts!!

<Overview>: Waryu SO offers original ‘Nara’ design T-shirts. Choose from deer, the Great Buddha, the five-story pagoda, and many more. Select your favorite design, size and color from the wide variety on offer. SO also offers an assortment of goods from other places, such as fine quality traditional Ryukyu Okinawa glass wares to pretty traditional Japanese pattern eco bags. SO is like a jewel box of interesting Japanese goods! Find the best one for you and make it a special ‘treasure’ of your Nara trip.

<Recommended items>: Original Nara T-shirts: from 2,100 yen; Traditional Japanese pattern eco bag: 520 yen; Ryukyu Okinawa glass wares: from 525 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-26-3262; Yume Cube A, on the east side of Mochiidono Shopping Center, about 400 meters from the north entrance; Open: 11:00-19:00; Closed irregularly; http://www.waryu-so.jp/

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fawn×fawn: (Central Nara/ Nara deer specialty goods); Fun and cute original “Nara Deer” goods!

<Overview>: fawn×fawn offers a wide range of original “Nara T-shirts” designed by up-and-coming T-shirt designers. Their designs are modern, stylish and playful, so you are bound to find one that you like. Sizes range from babies to extra large, and colors are varied. Besides T-shirts, fawn×fawn also produces original deer character goods.

<Recommended items>: Nara T-shirts: children: 2,100 yen, adults: from 2,980 yen; Postcards: 150 yen; Badges: 200 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-23-8713; About 5 min. walk from JR Nara Sta., on the north side of Sanjo Street; Open: 10:00-19:00; Closed irregularly; http://www.nara-t.com/

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Houeido: (Yoshino area/ Local souvenirs); Fine quality kuzu sweets, local sake and all kind of Yoshino’s specialties come together here

<Overview>: Houeido has been a popular local souvenir shop in Yoshino for over 100 years. Located in the mountains of Yoshino, one of the best cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan and a World Heritage Site, Houeido offers best quality kuzu (arrowroot starch) foods, as well as local sake and handicrafts. The kuzu sweets look like works of art – they are delicately formed with a taste that is simple yet sophisticated. From this year, Houeido has started to serve original cake made with kuzu (cherry blossom, maccha green tea and plain flavors) which are very popular with visitors to the area.

<Recommended items>: Kuzu sweets (15 pieces): 700 yen; Kuzu cake: 230 yen/piece, 700 yen/3 pieces, 1,200 yen/5 pieces; *Kuzu cake is available only limited number.; A bottle of local sake: from 630 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0746-32-3032; Across from Katte Shrine; 950 Yoshinoyama, Yoshino-cho, Yoshino-gun; Open: 8:00-20:00; Closed: irregularly; www.nara.yoshino.jp/houeido.htm; To get to Yoshino, see the access information on pg 12.

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Nara Nagomi-kan: (Central Nara/ Nara souvenir); Find best souvenir from Nara in Nara’s largest souvenir shop!

<Overview>: At Nara Nagomi-kan, you can find a vast array of Nara souvenirs: popular Nara sweets, locally brewed sake, specialty foods, pretty traditional Japanese crafts, authentic handicrafts by experienced craftsmen and more! Especially, Tombo-dama glass beads and Akahada-yaki ceramics are very popular. There is a café and restaurant next door to the shop. It is located right between Nara Park and Naramachi. Visit them for a satisfying shopping and dining experience!

<Recommended items>: Tombo-dama glass beads: from 2,310 yen; Akahada-yaki ceramics: from 8,400yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-21-7530; A 3-min. walk to the south of the Ichino Torii (first shrine gate) of the Kasuga Grand Shrine, on the left side; Open: 10:00-19:00; Closed: irregularly; http://www.worldheritage.co.jp/nagomi/index.html

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Asukabito no Yakata: (Asuka area/Local souvenirs and tourist information); Entrance to Asuka for everyone.

<Overview>: As a gateway to the Asuka area, the home of Japanese ancient history, Asukabito no Yakata is a good first stop for visitors. The interior design is based on the motifs of the Takamatsuzuka Ancient Tomb and four sacred Gods of the Kitora Ancient Tomb, and there is a variety of information on the area as well as a TV monitor showing Asuka’s attractions. Unique food and sweets using local ingredients, books and photo books of Asuka, as well as exquisite craft works and a wide range of souvenirs are on display. Pick up a memento of your visit to Asuka.

<Recommended items>: Asuka guide book (Japanese/English/Korean): Japanese: 300 yen, English or Korean: 400 yen; Takamatsuzuka Ancient Tomb postcard set: 320 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0774-54-3624; 6 Asuka Murakoshi, Takaichi-gun In front of Kintetsu Asuka Sta., on the left side (A-a, pg 8 map); Open: 8:30-17:00; Closed: end and beginning of the year; www.asukabito.or.jp; To get to Asuka, see the access information on pg 12.

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Hokuto Budougu: (Horyu-ji Area/ Japanese martial art goods); Visit the world of Japanese martial arts on the way to Horyu-ji Temple

<Overview>: Located on the way to Horyu-ji Temple, near JR Horyu-ji Station, Hokuto Budogu offers a range of original Japanese martial arts goods. The owner specializes in kendo (Japanese bamboo fencing) and his wife specializes in Japanese calligraphy. Using their skills, together they create original goods such as folding fans, door curtains and other traditional Japanese items. If visiting in summer, get one of Hokuto Budogu’s traditional fans and cool yourself down as you wander around Horyu-ji Temple!

<Recommended Items>: Tenugui cotton towel: from 400yen; Japanese fan: 2,000yen; Shinai bamboo sword: from 2,400yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0745-75-6128; About 10-min. walk north from JR Horyu-ji Sta.; Open: 10:00-19:00; closed: Wed; http://www.hokuto-budougu.jp/

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Kobaien Calligraphy Goods Retail Shop: (Central Nara/ Japanese calligraphy goods); Experience the history of Japanese calligraphy

<Overview>: Nara is well regarded as the birthplace of Japanese calligraphy ink and brush for over 1,000 years. The shop stocks the full range of Kobaien and other shop’s calligraphy materials, including brushes, ink bars, ink stones and washi paper, and also a variety of tea ceremony utensils. One of Nara’s best shops of calligraphy goods is Kobaien which specialize in all kinds of Japanese calligraphy materials. The ink bars of Kobaien are known for their high-quality ink bars which they successfully improved in its 400 years history.

<Recommended Items>: Ink bars: from 800 yen; Ink stones: from 2,500 yen; Paper weights: from 1,000 yen; Japanese calligraphy sets: from 5,000 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel:0742-22-2646; In front of the gate of Tamukeyama Shrine at the foot of Mount Wakakusa (map A, A-1, pg 6); Open everyday: 9:00-17:00

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Shop TABI-JI: (Central Nara/Jika-tabi Ninja shoes); The perfect combination of traditional and modern Japanese culture comes together in Jika-tabi footwear

<Overview>: Jika-tabi are a traditional style of Japanese footwear, generally worn by outdoor workers. TABI-JI offers a wide range of unique jika-tabi, or rather ‘Ninja shoes’ as they are often called. Not only traditional Japanese textiles and patterns, but also colorful and modern designs are available too. Some are very practical like sports shoes. The minimum size is from 13cm (for 1 and a half year old child). Why don’t you get some original and fashionable TABI-JI’s jika-tabi for the whole family? The friendly owner speaks English and welcomes international customers.

<Recommended Items>: Tabi Japanese socks: from 150 yen; Jika-tabi Ninja shoes for children: from 2,100 yen; Jika-tabi Ninja shoes for adults: from 3,800 yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-26-3588; Yume Cube C (third shop from the entrance), on the east side of Mochiidono Shopping Center, about 400 meters from the north entrance; Open: 10:00-18:00; Closed: Thurs.; http://www.waryu-so.jp/tabiji/

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Anzuya: (Central Nara/Japanese Ceramics); Appreciate Japanese craftsmanship through ceramics

<Overview>: Anzuya offers a variety of fine quality Japanese ceramics and delightful textile accessories. This cozy shop represents the warmth of the owner who welcomes visitors from all over the world. Nestled in the Takabatake area, you can experience the peaceful setting and take your time finding the perfect souvenir of your visit.

<Recommended Menu>: Tea cups from 800yen; Mug cups from 1,200yen

<Shop Data>: Tel: 0742-23-1706; 1237-7 Takabatake-cho, Nara; Open: 11:00-18:00; closed Wed.; http://anzuya.net

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Imura Art Gallery: (Kyoto City / Art Gallery); Feel the beauty of contemporary Japanese art in the old capital

<Overview>: Imura Art Gallery is held in high regard by its Japanese and overseas fans. The world famous auction house Christies regularly comes to Imura Art Gallery to discover new and interesting contemporary artists. Imura Art Gallery specializes in contemporary art works born out of the rich and beautiful tradition of the ancient capitals of Japan.

<Up-coming Exhibition>: Dec. 13 (Sat.) - 27 (Sat.), 2008; Natsunosuke MISE Exhibition; Natsunosuke MISE was born in Nara prefecture, south of Kyoto in 1973. He studied Fine Arts to graduate school level in Kyoto. Mise has won several big art prizes and is considered representative of young artists specializing in Japanese painting. His work has attracted not only domestic but also international attention. What he paints expresses the places where he exists and where he was born and raised, for example, his home Nara and Japan itself.

<Shop Data>: Tel: 075-761-7372; On the north side of Marutamachi, about 300 meters to the east from Kawabata; a 3-min. walk from Keihan Marutamachi Sta.;from Nara, take JR train from Nara to Kyoto, then, take Kyoto City Bus #204 and get off at Keihan Jingu Marutamachi.; Open: 10:00-18:30; Closed: Sun. & holiday; www.imuraart.com

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