What is Nara best known for?
What is Nara best known for? Nara Prefecture is located in the Kansai Region of Japan, and is known as the home of many early emperor palaces, large Shinto shrines, and abundance of wild deer that roam freely through the region.
Why are deer sacred in Nara?
The legend goes that the thunder god, Takemikazuchi, appeared in Nara riding on a white deer. The deer carried a scroll in its mouth, and Takemikazuchi warned the awestruck mortals who beheld him that from that point on, the deer would report their actions to the gods.
Can you touch the deer in Nara?
Do not carelessly touch or approach the deer! Do not let your child approach the deer alone! The deer in Nara Park are wild animals. Their behavior is unpredictable.
Is Nara closer to Osaka or Kyoto?
Nara is 35 kilometers south of Kyoto City and about 28 kilometers east of Osaka. Thus, it's within easy day trip distances of these cities. Of course, if you want to slow down and enjoy Nara a bit more, it makes sense to stay a night in Nara to really explore the area.
How long do I need in Nara?
While six or eight hours is ideal for a daytrip, you might find yourself with a mere half day to spend in Nara. If that is the case, don't despair: A half-day (four hours) is enough to see a lot of Nara's major sights.
Is Nara colder than Osaka?
Winter (December to February) In January, it gets even colder, with an average temperature of 6? in Osaka, 4.6? in Kyoto, and 3.9? in Nara.
What is an interesting fact about Nara?
Originally known as Yamato, Nara was Japan's first capital and the seat of the Emperor. Rich in ideas and technology from Europe, China and Korea via the Silk Road, Nara is a living museum with 1,300 years of art and architecture to offer.
What is so special about Nara?
Boasting the most UNESCO World Heritage sites of any city in Japan, Nara offers a unique experience of Japanese history and culture in a relatively compact city. Nara was the first permanent capital of Japan from AD 710 to 794 and has an impressive list of splendid temples, shrines and traditional gardens to see.
Why do so many tourists visit Nara?
The deer, wild and out in the open in the park, have grown accustomed to being fed by tourists, most of whom trek to Nara for this very reason. Established in 1880, Nara Park is one of the oldest parks in Japan.
How do you get around Nara?
Buses & Bus Tours Nara Kotsu operates the prefecture's extensive bus network, making it possible to travel to many of the more remote areas not served by rail. They also run many tourist-friendly bus routes linking the key attractions in Nara City, and in other popular areas like Asuka.