Nara, Ikoma, Tenri

Nara, Ikoma, Tenri:Overview & History

Nara served as the central region of ancient Japan during the Kofun, Asuka, and Nara periods (end of the third century through to the eighth century) where prominent aristocrats held power. Following the bloom of Buddhist culture introduced from China, many historical temples and shrines can be found in this area. The city boasts a treasure trove of historic and cultural resources including World Heritage Sites, national treasures, and important cultural properties.
It is easy to visit via JR or Kintetsu Railway lines because Nara is right next to Osaka, Kyoto, Mie, and Wakayama.

Nara, Ikoma, Tenri:Area Introduction

Nara has three World Heritage Sites: the Buddhist Monuments in the Horyu-ji Area, the Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara, and the Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range. The area also boasts some 1,323 national treasures and important cultural properties. With numerous Buddhist statues, Nara is the ideal place for lovers of Japanese Buddhist art.

Central Nara Surrounding Areas

Nara Park features Todai-ji Temple, Kofuku-ji Temple, and Kasuga-taisha Shrine all within walking distance. The nearby Nara-machi includes many beautiful buildings with traditional lattice fronts. Why not drop by the area for a relaxed stroll or a meal?

Ikoma Surrounding Areas

Ikoma-shi is located in the northwest part of Nara. Mt. Ikoma is just 15 minutes from Kintetsu Nara Station, and was previously a well-known site for ascetic practice. Currently, a cable car service is in operation and an amusement park is situated at the top of the mountain.

Tenri Surrounding Areas

This area is a religious city, and is the home for Tenrikyo, a religion that started at the end of the Edo period (late 19th century). There are many religious facilities in the area, many of which are open to non-followers.

Nara, Ikoma, Tenri:Must-See Events

March 1 to 14:Shunie at Nigatsu-do Hall of Todai-ji Temple (Omizu-tori)

This major event marks the arrival of spring in Nara. The festivities reach their climax on March 12 with the Omizu-tori (Sacred Water-drawing Festival).

Early August:Nara Tokae

The whole of Nara Park is illuminated by candles during this event, which is an iconic part of summer in Nara.

Early October to mid-November: Exhibition of Shoso-in Treasures

At this major fall event in Nara, a selection from the numerous treasures stored in Shoso-in are displayed to the public in the Nara National museum. The Shoso-in are raised-floor warehouses in the Todai-ji Temple Great Buddha Hall, and house some of Japan's most prized historical artifacts.

Nara, Ikoma, Tenri:Access

Access from Kansai International Airport to Nara

From Kansai International Airport, take an Airport Limousine Bus (operated by Nara Kotsu Bus Lines and Kansai Airport Transportation Enterprise), ride for 90 minutes, and then get off at JR Nara Station or Kintetsu Nara Station.

Access from Osaka International Airport to Nara

From Kansai International Airport, take an Airport Limousine Bus (operated by Nara Kotsu Bus Lines and Kansai Airport Transportation Enterprise), ride for 75 minutes, and then get off at JR Nara Station or Kintetsu Nara Station.