Nara Editor's Picks

This curated selection highlights the historical depth and natural diversity of Nara. Explore the UNESCO-listed Mount Yoshino, a central site for Shugendo mountain worship, and the Manyo Botanical Garden, which showcases over 300 plant species featured in ancient Japanese poetry. The list includes specialized institutions like the Yamato Bunkakan and Neiraku Museum, housing significant collections of East Asian art and ceramics, alongside the preserved merchant history of the Naramachi Museum and the 16th-century stone walls of Koriyama Castle.

Tawashi2006 / CC BY 2.1 jp

A

Mount Yoshino

Mount Yoshino is a mountain located in the town of Yoshino in Yoshino District, Nara Prefecture, Japan that is a major religious and…

Mx. Granger / CC0

B

Manyo Botanical Garden, Nara

The Manyo Botanical Garden, also known as the Kasuga Taisha Garden, is a botanical garden located next to the Kasuga Shrine at 160 Kasugano…

Kooriyannma / CC BY 3.0

C

Ruins of the Koriyama Castle

16th-century fortification ruins featuring historic stone walls and the reconstructed Gokuraku-mon gate. The site is noted for its 'upside-down Buddha' stones used during construction and serves as a major site for seasonal cherry blossom viewing.

663highland / CC BY 2.5

D

Naramachi Museum

Visit this quaint museum if looking for information about Nara, its history, and local culture.

663highland / CC BY 2.5

E

Neiraku Museum

Neiraku Museum is an art museum in the city of Nara, central Japan.The museum opened in April 1969.

663highland / CC BY 2.5

F

Yamato Bunkakan

Museum of Asian art housing a collection of over 2,000 items, including National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties. The facility, designed by architect Isoya Yoshida, is situated within a natural park overlooking the Shobu-ike pond.