Nara is Japan's first permanent capital, a compact city of ancient temples, free-roaming deer, and UNESCO World Heritage treasures. Founded as the imperial seat in 710 CE, Nara preserves some of Asia's oldest wooden structures and a living tradition of Shinto and Buddhist heritage that shaped Japanese civilization.
Historical timeline
Key moments that shaped Nara.
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1
Mythological founding of Japan; Emperor Jimmu enshrined at Kashihara
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2
Crown Prince Shotoku constructs Horyu-ji Temple in Ikaruga — the world's oldest surviving wooden building
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3
Horyu-ji completed; Japan sends first envoy to Sui Dynasty China
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4
Empress Genmei establishes Heijo-kyo (Nara) as Japan's first permanent capital
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5
Kojiki, Japan's oldest chronicle, compiled in Nara
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6
Nihon Shoki, Japan's second-oldest chronicle, completed
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7
Emperor Shomu orders construction of the Great Buddha (Daibutsu) at Todai-ji
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8
Eye-Opening Ceremony (Kaigenku) for the Great Buddha; Omizutori ritual established at Nigatsu-do
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9
Kasuga Grand Shrine founded as tutelary shrine of the Fujiwara clan
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10
Imperial court relocates to Nagaoka-kyo; Nara temples remain active
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11
Capital moved permanently to Heian-kyo (Kyoto); Nara enters era as religious centre
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12
Kofuku-ji and Todai-ji burned during Taira-Minamoto civil war; rebuilt in Kamakura period
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13
Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Site
Historical sites
Places where Nara's past comes alive.
Historic
Heijo Palace Site (Heijo-kyu Ato)
Admission: Adult: Free (grounds); Restored Audience Hall ¥100 ($0.65) | Child: Free
Historic
Horyu-ji Temple
Admission: Adult: ¥1,500 ($10) | Child: ¥750 ($5)
Historic
Todai-ji Temple (Daibutsuden)
Admission: Adult: ¥600 ($4) | Child: ¥300 ($2)