A trip around World Heritage sites! 35 recommended sightseeing spots in the ancient capital of Nara!

Nara is a tourist destination filled with World Heritage sites that are well-known from school trips. It is full of famous places such as Japan's first World Heritage site, "Buddhist Monuments in the Horyu-ji Area," the eight "Historic Assets of Ancient Nara," and the "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range" that spans Nara and the surrounding prefectures. There are also areas rich in nature that should not be missed, such as "Mount Yoshino," one of Japan's leading cherry blossom viewing spots, and "Nara Park," famous as a spot for viewing autumn leaves. We have picked out 35 recommended spots, from standard tourist spots with deer to hidden gems. We will introduce attractive tourist spots, mainly in the areas of Nara that are home to World Heritage sites!

1. Kofukuji

Kofuku-ji Temple is the head temple of the Hosso sect of Buddhism and a famous tourist spot in Nara Prefecture. One of the most popular tourist spots is the Kofuku-ji National Treasure Museum. Many Buddhist statues appear in textbooks, such as the "Kofuku-ji Buddha Head," a masterpiece of Hakuho culture, and the "Asura Statue" created during the Nara period. If you look at the delicate and elegant Buddhist statues, you will be fascinated by the depth of the culture of the ancient capital of Nara.

In addition to the National Treasure Museum, many other tourist spots represent the ancient capital of Nara, such as the five-story pagoda. Kofuku-ji Temple is located in Nara Park, so it is also recommended for those who want to interact with deer. Kofuku-ji Temple is within walking distance of tourist spots such as Todai-ji Temple, another temple that represents Nara, and Kasuga Taisha Shrine, where deer began to be worshiped as messengers of the gods, so it is perfect for sightseeing together!

2. Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Kasuga Taisha is a shrine dedicated to the Fujiwara clan's guardian deity. It has been in Nara for over 1200 years and has a long history of flourishing along with the prosperity of the Fujiwara clan. When you think of tourist spots in Nara, temples may come to mind, but Kasuga Taisha is no slouch either! Kasuga Taisha is characterized by its brightly shining vermilion shrine buildings, boasting a beauty not found in temples. If you're tired from walking around the vast grounds, we recommend Kasuga Nichaya.

Take a break with some traditional tea and sweets and you'll be able to enjoy sightseeing again. There are also traditional Nara events such as the Manyo Gagaku Kai, with its magnificent music, and the Kasuga Wakamiya Onmatsuri, which boasts a history of about 1000 years.

3. Todaiji Temple

Todaiji Temple, a temple representing Nara, is well known for the "Great Buddha of Nara." Todaiji Temple was built at the request of Emperor Shomu during the Nara period, and its official name is "Golden Light Four Heavenly Kings Gokoku Temple." The biggest attraction of Todaiji Temple is the Great Buddha! Anyone will be overwhelmed by the compassionate look of the Great Buddha sitting there. However, the Great Buddha is not the only attraction at Todaiji Temple.

There are many other tourist attractions besides the Great Buddha, such as the Kongorikishi statues known as works by Unkei and Kaikei at the Great South Gate, and Nigatsudo Hall, famous for the "Omizutori" ceremony. There is a parking lot near the Great Buddha Hall, so it is a tourist spot in Nara where you can visit by car without any trouble.

4. Gangoji Temple

Gangoji Temple in Nara City was originally a temple called Hokko-ji Temple, built by Soga no Umako in Asuka, but moved to its current location when the capital was moved to Heijo-kyo. During the Nara period, it boasted great influence as one of the Seven Great Temples of Nara.

Today, Gangoji Temple is a tourist destination registered as a World Heritage Site as part of the "Cultural Assets of Ancient Nara." The attraction of Gangoji Temple is its architecture! The roof tiles on the main hall and Zen room of Gokurakubo are the oldest in Japan, and the architectural style of overlapping round and flat tiles is extremely rare. Looking at the roof of Gangoji Temple, you can see the architectural techniques of the Nara period.

Gangoji Temple is a must-see tourist destination when touring the temples of Nara, so be sure to visit.

5. Horyu-ji Temple

Horyu-ji Temple is registered as a World Heritage Site as the world's oldest surviving wooden building. The five-story pagoda stands majestically against the sky of Asuka, Nara. Horyu-ji Temple, built by Prince Shotoku, is full of national treasures! Among the many national treasures, the Shaka Triad is a Buddhist statue that you cannot leave without seeing.

It is one of the earliest Buddhist statues in Japan and is characterized by its smiling face, known as the Archaic Smile. You can also see rare Buddhist statues that you cannot see in Kyoto, such as the Baekje Kannon Statue. In addition, there are surprisingly many international restaurants, including Korean and Indian cuisine, scattered around Horyu-ji Temple. This is a tourist destination where you will not have any trouble finding lunch when sightseeing around the Asuka area of ​​Nara.

6. Nara Park

Nara Park is a large park located in an area crowded with famous temples such as Kofuku-ji Temple and Todai-ji Temple. It is famous for its many deer. The deer are not afraid of people and you can enjoy interacting with them, so it is a common sight in Nara to see tourists feeding them deer crackers. The recommended season for sightseeing is autumn. Nara Park is also famous for its autumn leaves and is a popular tourist destination.

Mount Wakakusa, which can be seen from the park, is also a popular tourist spot! At night, you can see the night view of Nara City, making it a popular date spot. In January, an event called "Wakakusayama Yaki" is held, where the grass on Mount Wakakusa is burned down, and it is an annual event in Nara that is popular with tourists.

7. Yoshikien

Yoshikien Garden was built on the site of a sub-temple of Kofuku-ji Temple called Manishuin. The garden makes use of the natural topography and incorporates Mount Wakakusa and Mount Kasuga in Nara Park, creating a landscape that can only be seen in Nara.

The garden is divided into three parts: the pond garden, the tea flower garden, and the moss garden. The moss garden is a must-visit during the autumn foliage season! The red maple leaves create a beautiful contrast against the green moss-covered ground. It is easily accessible, a 15-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station, and is close to Kofuku-ji Temple and Todai-ji Temple, making it a must-see tourist spot when sightseeing in Nara City.

8. Isuien Garden

Isuien is a luxurious garden surrounded by Todaiji Temple and Kofukuji Temple. The garden is divided into two parts, the front garden, and the back garden, each with a different atmosphere. The front garden was built in the Edo period and is attractive for its tranquil space! You can also dine at Sanshutei, so it's perfect for lunch while sightseeing in Nara. The back garden is characterized by its open space and the distant views of Nara's mountains, including Mount Wakakusa. Another highlight of Isuien is the Neiraku Art Museum. It exhibits art pieces collected by the Nakamura family, who prospered in the shipping industry.

Special exhibitions are also held, so it is a recommended tourist spot for those who want to thoroughly appreciate art in Nara. It is a little-known tourist spot in Nara City, so why not visit it?

9. Mount Wakakusa

Wakakusayama is a small hill in Nara Park and is a tourist spot that can be visited as a light hike. At the top of the mountain is Uguisuzuka Kofun, which is said to have been built in the 5th century, and conveys the atmosphere of ancient times to the present day. Wakakusayama is home to many deer on its wide lawns, so you can interact with them. At night, the lights of the ancient capital decorate the night view, making it a popular tourist spot for dates. And when talking about Wakakusayama, an essential event is the "Wakakusayama Burning"!

This event, in which the lawn is burned down, is a popular winter event for tourists as a seasonal feature of Nara. Furthermore, you can enjoy the scenery of Nara from your car on the Nara Okuyama Driveway, so it is recommended for those who visit by car.

10. Nara National Museum

Nara National Museum exhibits cultural assets, mainly Japanese Buddhist art. The main attractions are the Nara Buddhist Statue Hall, which displays many Buddhist statues, the West Wing, which displays paintings and archaeological artifacts, and the East Wing, which holds special exhibitions. The West Wing changes its exhibits about once a month, so you'll never get bored no matter how many times you visit. The East Wing frequently holds special exhibitions, so you'll never want to miss them.

If you have time, you should also visit the Bronzeware Gallery, which displays ancient Chinese bronzeware.

You'll be entranced by their unique colors and beautiful shapes. Viewing the art at the Nara National Museum will make your visit to the ancient city of Nara even more enjoyable.

11. Toshodaiji Temple

Toshodaiji Temple is located about 15 minutes by car from the center of Nara City. Toshodaiji Temple was built by the monk Ganjin, who came to Japan from China to spread Buddhist precepts during the Nara period. It boasts a history of over 1,200 years since its founding and is registered as a World Heritage Site. The main attraction of Toshodaiji Temple is the Kondo Hall! The front of the hall is built with an architectural technique called "fukihasashi," which gives it an open feel.

You can't take your eyes off the Buddha statues enshrined in the Kondo Hall. The Thousand-Armed Kannon Standing Statue is a Buddha statue that you can enjoy both its calm appearance and its powerful appearance at the same time. In addition, beautiful lotus flowers bloom in the summer, and the fragrance of the Tenpyo period wafts through the air.

12. Heijo Palace Ruins

The Heijo Palace ruins are the site of the Daidairi, the palace of Heijo-kyo, and are now a tourist destination. The Suzakumon Gate at the entrance has been restored to its original appearance, making you feel as if you have traveled back in time to the Nara period. The most recommended tourist spot is the Daigokuden! Inside the building surrounded by large vermilion pillars, the throne where the emperor sat is reproduced. The Heijo Palace Ruins Museum also introduces the culture of the Nara period.

Learning about it will definitely make your visit to Nara even more enjoyable. There is also an event called the Heijokyo Tenpyo Festival, which includes events such as lighting lanterns. The fantastic light space is popular with many tourists.

13. Yakushiji Temple

Yakushiji Temple is one of the major temples in Nara. It is one of the Seven Great Temples of Nara and is crowded with many tourists. The Yakushi Triad is enshrined in the Golden Hall located in the center of the Yakushiji temple complex. The Yakushi Triad is said to be the greatest masterpiece of Buddhist sculptures from the Nara period, and its base features patterns that originate from Persia and China! It is a tourist attraction that connects Nara with the Silk Road.

In addition, the Yakushiji East Pagoda is a building that has remained as it was when it was built in the Nara period. You can enjoy this famous Nara building, which is also described as "frozen music" for its splendor. In addition, the Xuanzang Tripitaka temple complex has murals depicting the achievements of Tripitaka, a familiar figure from Journey to the West.

14. Mount Ikoma

Mount Ikoma is a mountain with an elevation of about 642m that straddles the border between Nara Prefecture and Osaka Prefecture. Mount Ikoma is famous as a tourist destination where you can climb the mountains of Nara Prefecture! All courses take about an hour, so you can enjoy climbing at your leisure. And the famous temple on Mount Ikoma is Hozan-ji Temple. It is a temple where people pray for worldly benefits and attracts many believers. At the top of Mount Ikoma, there is Mount Ikoma Amusement Park.

There are attractions where you can see the unique scenery from the top of the mountain, and the night view is also beautiful. Mount Ikoma is also full of stylish cafes. It is a popular spot that is perfect for lunch. Mount Ikoma is a recommended tourist spot in Nara that can be enjoyed by families and girls on a trip.

15. Hokkeji Temple

Todaiji Temple, known for the Great Buddha of Nara, was the head temple of the Kokubunji and brought together all the Kokubunji temples in Japan. Hokkeji Temple was built by Empress Komyo as the temple for the atonement of the sins of the Lotus Sutra, which brought together all the Kokubunji nunneries in Japan. It later became famous as a monzeki nunnery, with the children of the imperial family and aristocrats as its chief priests.

The charm of Hokkeji Temple is the simple atmosphere that is unique to nunneries. The main image, the eleven-faced Kannon statue, is said to be a representation of Empress Komyo walking through a lotus pond.

The statue's right foot is slightly raised, making it a unique Buddhist statue. Please note that this eleven-faced Kannon statue is only open to the public for a limited time in spring and autumn. Another specialty of Hokkeji Temple is the cute dog-shaped "omamori dog"! It would make a great souvenir from your trip to Nara.

16. Takatori Castle Ruins

This is the site of a castle built on the summit of a mountain at an altitude of about 583m during the Nanboku-cho period. A photograph taken in the early Meiji period shows the castle almost completely intact, including the turrets and gates, but the castle buildings, having completed their role, have deteriorated and collapsed. Currently, only stone walls and other remains remain.

The highlight is undoubtedly the beautiful castle tower base! Looking up from below, you can imagine the triple-story castle tower towering above, and it feels like you've traveled back in time. It will blow away the fatigue of climbing up the mountain trail. The recommended seasons to visit are spring and autumn. In addition to being able to enjoy the scenery of cherry blossoms and autumn leaves blending into the natural surroundings of Nara, it is a comfortable season for tourists.

17. Horinji Temple

Horin-ji Temple in Ikaruga Town, Nara Prefecture, is located near Horyu-ji Temple, and its three-story pagoda is its landmark. Like Horyu-ji Temple, it is known as a historic temple dating back to the Asuka period. The three-story pagoda of Horin-ji Temple, along with the five-story pagoda of Horyu-ji Temple and the three-story pagoda of Hoki-ji Temple, are pagodas associated with Prince Shotoku and are counted among the "Ikaruga Three Pagodas." The two famous Buddha statues at Horin-ji Temple are the wooden seated Yakushi Nyorai statue and the wooden Kokuzo Bosatsu statue. Both were made at different times from the Buddha statue at Horyu-ji Temple and do not have the archaic smile known as the archaic smile.

It will be even more interesting to compare the differences between the statues at Horyu-ji Temple and the statues at Horin-ji Temple. Horin-ji Temple is an essential tourist destination for temple tours around Horyu-ji Temple.

18. Hokkiji Temple

The official reading of Hokkiji is "Hokiji", but it is familiar to people as "Hokkiji", which has been read as "Hokkiji" since long ago. Hokkiji is a temple registered as a World Heritage Site along with Horyu-ji Temple and is a popular tourist destination that many people visit together with Horyu-ji Temple. The highlight of Hokkiji Temple is the three-story pagoda, which is one of the three pagodas of Ikaruga! It is known as the oldest three-story pagoda in Japan, and although it is simple, it is full of dignity.

In autumn, it is recommended to see the three-story pagoda together with the flower fields where the cosmos bloom. By the way, Hokkiji Temple is a stop on the "Nara-Nishi-Kyo-Ikaruga Kaiyu Line" bus. If you use the free pass, you can tour Nara efficiently. Why not visit Hokkiji Temple to see the historic three-story pagoda?

19. Fujinoki Tomb

Fujinoki Kofun in Ikaruga Town, Nara Prefecture, is a type of ancient tomb known as a circular tomb because of its round shape. It is estimated to have been built in the 6th century, and the identity of the person buried there is still unknown. Fujinoki Kofun has attracted a lot of attention due to the rare items excavated. These include gorgeous horse equipment not seen anywhere else in Japan, or even in ancient East Asia. And a variety of gorgeous accessories!

Near the tomb is the Ikaruga Cultural Properties Center, which displays replicas of the excavated items. The surrounding area is a park and is famous as a tourist spot near Horyuji Temple. This is a highly recommended spot for those who want to experience the romance of ancient times in Nara.

20. Nara Prefectural Manyo Culture Museum

The Nara Prefectural Manyo Culture Museum is a tourist attraction located in Asuka Village, Nara Prefecture, as a facility to convey the culture of the "Manyoshu," Japan's oldest collection of poems. The museum is divided into the first floor and the basement, and on the first floor, Japanese paintings by various artists are exhibited. There is an observation lobby from which you can view Mount Miminashi and Mount Kagu, known as the Yamato Sanzan. The basement floor introduces ancient culture such as that of the Nara period.

The Nara Prefectural Manyo Culture Museum can be easily accessed by bus from Sakurai Station or Kashihara-Jingu-mae Station. Asuka Village also has a bicycle rental office, so it is recommended for those who want to tour the area by bicycle.

21. Ishibutai Tomb

Ishibutai Tomb boasts one of the largest horizontal stone chambers in Japan, and is one of the most representative ancient tombs in Nara Asuka. It was given the name "Ishibutai" (stone stage) due to the way the huge stones were stacked flat. The appeal of Ishibutai Tomb is the rough form of the huge stones! They may look messy, but they are stacked intricately, and the beauty of their shape excites tourists who visit. It is said that the person buried in Ishibutai Tomb was Soga no Umako.

If you imagine that this was the political center of the past, you will feel the historical romance of the ancient city of Nara. The inside of the tomb is cool and cold, and perhaps due to the texture of the stones, it has a unique atmosphere. Ishibutai Tomb is also famous as one of Nara Prefecture's leading cherry blossom sightseeing spots. It is also wonderful to visit at night when it is lit up!

22. Takamatsuzuka Tomb

Takamatsuzuka Tomb is one of the most famous ancient tombs in Nara Prefecture. The reason why Takamatsuzuka Tomb is so famous is because of the vividly colored murals on the walls of the stone chamber. Constellations, the four gods such as the white tiger, and human figures are vividly painted, and it has been designated a national treasure. The group of women is called "Asuka Beauties" and is a rare item that appears in history textbooks.

However, in recent years, discoloration and deterioration of the murals due to mold and other factors have become an issue, and public access is restricted. However, the mural repair workshop is periodically opened to those who have been selected by lottery, so why not apply? You can also enjoy Nara's historical tourism even more by visiting the Kitora Tomb, which is similar to the Takamatsuzuka Tomb.

23. Kitora Tomb

Kitora Tomb, like Takamatsuzuka Tomb, is an ancient tomb in Asuka Village, Nara Prefecture, famous for the colorful murals in the stone chamber. Unlike Takamatsuzuka Tomb, it does not have a mural of a human figure known as the "Asuka Beauty," but it does have statues of the four gods, including Suzaku. The four gods have a dynamic and three-dimensional feel, and you can sense their high artistic quality. The detailed astronomical charts also highlight the high level of technology at the time.

However, the murals have deteriorated due to mold and other factors, so they are being restored, and are only available to the public for a limited time. For a limited time, only those who win a lottery will be able to see them at the Kitora Tomb Mural Experience Center, so be sure to apply! As it is a valuable cultural asset, it is sure to be an unforgettable visit.

24. Omiwa Shrine

Omiwa Shrine is a shrine located in Sakurai City, Nara Prefecture. It is one of the oldest shrines in Japan and has been enshrined in Nara since ancient times. A unique feature of Omiwa Shrine is that it does not have a main hall. Omiwa Shrine worships the mountain itself, Mt. Miwa, as its deity. You can climb Mt. Miwa, and the solemn atmosphere is sobering.

In particular, there is a mystical atmosphere in front of the three torii gates that separate the worship hall from the forbidden area, where even priests are not allowed to set foot. The area around Omiwa Shrine is also crowded with famous somen noodle shops. Have some authentic somen noodles for lunch and recharge your energy for the next tourist spot!

25. Tanzan Shrine

Tanzan Shrine is located in Tonomine, Sakurai City, Nara Prefecture. The name Tanzan is said to have originated from the time when Prince Nakano Oe and Nakatomi Kamatari discussed the Taika Reforms. Tanzan Shrine is known as one of the most popular tourist spots in Nara Prefecture for its autumn leaves. In particular, the view of the 13-story pagoda and the red leaves from the Kemari Garden is a beautiful collaboration.

Tanzan Shrine is not only popular for its autumn leaves, but also for its hydrangeas! Approximately 1,000 hydrangeas brighten up the grounds during the rainy season. Another specialty of Tanzan Shrine is its amulets. The amulets for artistic improvement have become a hot topic as they have been used by celebrities. They make a perfect souvenir from your trip to Nara.

26. Hasedera Temple

Hasedera Temple in Nara is known as the "Temple of Flowers" and has been attracting many people since ancient times. The attraction of Hasedera Temple is the scenery that changes with the seasons! In spring, the scenery is gorgeous with peonies, and in summer, the scenery is cool with hydrangeas and lotus flowers. In autumn, the scenery is nostalgic with autumn leaves, and in winter, the beautiful scenery of snow and the temple spreads. Hasedera Temple is full of other tourist attractions.

You can feel the charm of Hasedera Temple, which was loved by so many people, at the stone monument with Matsuo Basho's haiku. There are also two cedar trees that appear in "The Tale of Genji". Hasedera Temple, known as a place of reunion and matchmaking, is also perfect as a date spot for adults. If you check the flowering period and the best time to see it in advance, you will be able to enjoy your visit to Hasedera Temple to the fullest.

27. Muroji Temple

Muroji Temple is located in Uda City, east of the Nara Basin. During the Edo period, it was known as "Women's Koyasan" as a Shingon Buddhist temple where women could also enter. Muroji Temple's highlights include the smallest five-story pagoda in Japan and the main hall, which is built in a style of architecture called "kakezukuri." Both are designated national treasures and are well worth seeing. Many historic Buddha statues welcome visitors.

Muroji Temple is also famous as a tourist spot for its hydrangeas. It is a recommended tourist spot for sightseeing in Nara during the rainy season. Along with the hydrangeas, you should also see the fireflies on the Muro River! Also known as the "Firefly Highway," the firefly light creates a fantastic scene. It is a popular tourist spot in Nara, so be sure to visit.

28. Yoshimizu Shrine

Yoshimizu Shrine is a tourist spot in Mount Yoshino that is registered as a World Heritage Site as part of the "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range." This Yoshimizu Shrine is famous for having one of the best views of Mount Yoshino, a famous cherry blossom spot. It is said that Toyotomi Hideyoshi even held a cherry blossom viewing party at this shrine. Many tourists visit every year to take photos of the cherry blossoms, which are said to be a thousand trees at a glance.

Yoshimizu Shrine is also a popular tourist spot because you can worship with your dog. This is because Emperor Godaigo once brought his dog to Mount Yoshino, holding him close. There are also charms for dogs, which is a must-see for dog lovers. Why not visit the historic Yoshimizu Shrine while sightseeing in Yoshino, Nara?

29. Yoshino Mikumari Shrine

Yoshino Mikumari Shrine is a shrine dedicated to Amemikumari, the water goddess. However, "mikumari" has been translated into "mikomori" (child guardian), and many people visit to pray for safe childbirth. The date of its founding is unknown, but it has been around since the Asuka period, so it is a shrine with a long history. As it is a sacred object, it is not open to the public, but the seated statue of Tamayorihime is known for its authentic sculpture.

Yoshino Mikumari Shrine is also famous as a tourist spot for Yoshino's cherry blossoms. The stately grounds and the softly blooming cherry blossoms are a perfect match! If you are touring the famous cherry blossom spots in Yoshino, Nara, this is a tourist spot you cannot miss.

30. Kinpu Shrine

Kinpu Shrine is a shrine located in the area of ​​Mount Yoshino in Nara called Okusenbon. It is a quiet shrine, but it is registered as a World Heritage Site and was worshipped by Fujiwara no Michinaga. Surrounded by cedar and cherry trees, it exudes a mystical atmosphere and is popular with connoisseur tourists. One of the highlights of Kinpu Shrine is Yoshitsune's hidden tower!

Located at the end of a road on the side of the shrine grounds, its simple appearance stirs up romance. Why not go sightseeing in search of Yoshitsune at this hidden tourist spot in Yoshino, Nara? It is easy to access, as it is about a 25-minute bus ride from Yoshino Station on the Yoshino Ropeway to Okusenbonguchi, and then a 5-minute walk from there.

31. Kinpusenji Temple

Kinpusenji Temple is one of the most famous tourist spots in Yoshino, Nara, and has long been known as a tourist spot for its cherry blossoms. The main attraction of Kinpusenji Temple is the Kongo Zao Gongen, the principal image enshrined in the Zao Hall! The blue, powerful Zao Gongen stands before the tourists who visit, overwhelming them all.

However, since Zao Gongen is a secret Buddha, it can only be seen for about one month a year when it is open to the public. Please be careful when visiting. The large Niomon Gate was built in the Muromachi period and attracts tourists from the moment it enters. Another famous event held at Kinpusenji Temple is the "Frog Jump." It tells the story of a man who was kidnapped by a kite and turned into a frog.

32. Mitarai Valley

Mitarai Valley is located near the center of Tenkawa Village in southern Nara Prefecture. It is said to be the most beautiful valley in the Kinki region, and its abundant mountain stream is full of negative ions. The promenade, which takes about two hours one way, also features a suspension bridge and a waterfall, making it a great hiking course!

The best time to visit is during the seasons of new greenery and autumn leaves when many tourists from the Kinki region come to enjoy forest bathing. After enjoying the great outdoors, refresh yourself at Dorogawa Onsen deep in the valley! You can wash away the sweat from walking through the valley, leaving you feeling refreshed both physically and mentally. Mitarai Valley is easily accessible, with direct buses from Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya, and other cities.

33. Totsukawa Onsen

Totsukawa Onsen is located on the shores of the Futatsuno Dam lake in Totsukawa Village, a famous hidden area in Nara Prefecture. The spring quality is sodium bicarbonate spring water, and it is a hidden good spring that is counted among the 100 best hot springs in Japan. The 70-degree water is said to hold its temperature long, so once you soak in it, your whole body will feel warm! This hot spring is also famous for the fact that Totsukawa Village in Nara Prefecture has declared that it is 100% free-flowing from the source.

No matter which inn you stay at, you can find good quality hot water. In addition to the accommodation, there are three public baths, including "Iori no Yu," as well as free foot baths and drinking water facilities, which are also attractive! It is also used by many tourists as the back entrance to the World Heritage Kumano Kodo.

34. Umami Hill Park

Umami Hill Park is located south of Horyuji Temple. It is a vast urban park covering over 50 hectares and is divided into three areas. The central area is home to four ancient tombs, including the restored and maintained historic Nagareyama Tomb and the rare scallop-shaped Otomeyama Tomb, and you can see the whole view from the observation deck on the second floor of the park hall. It is also famous as a tourist spot for flowers, with its iris garden and water lily pond!

Many tourists from Nara Prefecture and the Kinki region visit to enjoy the seasonal flowers. From the southern area, you can see Suyama Tomb, one of the largest keyhole-shaped tombs in the area. The northern area has large wooden playground equipment and a large lawn area, so families can have fun.

35. Tanize Suspension Bridge

A 300m-long iron wire suspension bridge that connects Tanise and Uenoji in Tozugawa Village, Nara Prefecture, upstream of Kazeya Dam! The 54m-high Tanise suspension bridge is different from the tourist suspension bridges that have been increasing in number in recent years. It was originally built in 1954 by local villagers pooling their money together as a bridge for daily life. Now it is bustling as a tourist spot representing Tozugawa Village, Nara Prefecture.

This simple suspension bridge, which consists of a plank about the width of two people stretched across a horizontal pier, is full of thrills! Near the center, you can experience a swaying motion that will make your legs freeze. It is also lit up at night, so it is recommended as a Nara sightseeing experience that is a little different from visiting historical sites!

◎Summary

If you're going to Nara... Have you found a tourist spot you'd like to visit? Then head to Nara right away! Book a cheap rental car in Nara Prefecture and drive to popular tourist spots. Nara has plenty of tourist spots that are worth waiting in line for! There is sure to be a tourist spot in Nara that will truly satisfy you. Nara is also unique in that it has many more relaxing tourist spots than Osaka or Kyoto. In addition to visiting historical sites, another great attraction of Nara tourism is being able to relax and enjoy Nara cuisine and hot springs. Be sure to visit Nara to warm up your body before traveling in the Kinki region!