The Jewel in Japan's World Heritage Crown
The history of Japan as a unified state starts from Nara. The Nara period (710 - 784) was also a very cosmopolitan era, with considerably significant interaction with China and the rest of the world through the Silk Road. This is reflected in the very ancient and very unique history and culture of the area. Boasting three UNESCO World Heritage Sites including a total of 20 individual venues, Nara is the jewel in Japan's World Heritage crown. The UNESCO sites span ancient monuments and historic pilgrimage routes. To visit these is to understand Nara's contributions to the history and culture of Japan, and its relationship to the rest of the world.
Buddhist Monuments in the Horyuji Area
The first Japanese site to be inscribed onto the World Heritage List in 1993, there are around 48 Buddhist sites around Horyuji Temple and Hokiji Temple. Many of the buildings date from the late 7th century, making them some of the oldest wooden buildings in the world. The Horyuji area was also chosen for its contribution to Japanese culture and the history of religion in Japan.
Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range
The ancient pilgrimage routes taking pilgrims to the three sacred sites of Yoshino and Omine, Kumano and Koyasan pass through Nara, Wakayama and Mie prefectures. The only other World Heritage pilgrimage route is Spain’s Santiago de Compostela. The sites in Yoshino and Omine including Kinpusen-ji Temple and Tamaki Shrine are sacred to Shugendo practitioners (a form of mountain asceticism) since the 12th century. For many, traveling these paths awakens a deep sense of reverence for nature. Pilgrims still walk these routes today.
World Heritage Venues
Area Guides
explore some of Nara's World Heritage areas in more detail
Area guides
explore some of Nara's World Heritage areas in more detail