What to know
Japan's first permanent capital was founded in 710 at Heijo, the city now known as Nara (奈良). Before that, the capital moved each time a new emperor took the throne.
However, as the powerful Buddhist monasteries in the city grew politically influential and threatened the government, the capital was relocated from Nara to Nagaoka in 784, and then to Kyoto a few years later.
Nara lies less than an hour from Kyoto and Osaka. Thanks to its historical significance, the city brims with cultural treasures, including some of Japan's oldest and largest temples.
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- Closed
- Admission
- English name
- Nara City Sightseeing Information Center
- Original name
- Nara
Verify details before visiting. Currency conversion is indicative and may vary over time.