Nara’s World Heritage Sites highlight Japan’s ancient history. Todai-ji Temple’s Great Buddha, Kasuga Taisha Shrine’s lanterns, Kofuku-ji Temple’s pagoda, and Horyu-ji Temple’s wooden structure showcase Buddhist and Shinto heritage. Yoshino’s cherry blossoms and Kinpusen-ji Temple reveal the essence of Shugendo.
World Heritage Sites
Nara, the birthplace of Japan as a unified state, flourished during the Nara period (710–784), a cosmopolitan era influenced by the Silk Road. Home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites with 20 venues, including ancient monuments and pilgrimage routes, Nara offers a glimpse into Japan’s rich history and global connections, making it a key destination for understanding the nation’s heritage.