N A R A K O E N
Nara was declared as the first capital of Japan Empire in 710, and this role lasted until 784, for what is
defined the Nara period, when the capital was moved to the city of Heijo-Kyo.
The original city, Heijo-kyo, was modelled after the capital of Tang Dynasty China, Chang'an (present-day Xi'an).
The name "Nara" derived from the Japanese word narashita meaning "made flat".
During those times, a lot of temples and shrines were built around the city area. The most significant landmarks, which make the Nara city
famous as one of the most significative sites for what regards Japanese history, are located in the Nara Koen, the park east to the city.
That's the place I visited in one daytrip, focusing on the three main historical sites: The Todai-ji temple, The Kasuga Taisha Shrine and the Kofuku-ji temple.
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T O D A I - J I T E M P L E
The Todai-ji temple is the most significative temple in Nara, and one of the most important in Japan.
Its main hall is the biggest wooden structure in the world, and contains an equally impressive bronze statue of the Buddha.
More details in the photo comments!
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K A S U G A T A I S H A S H R I N E
Isolated in the green core of the Nara Koen park, lies the Kasuga Taisha Shrine, which is reachable after a walk on a path surrounded by hundreds
of stone lanterns donated by worshippers.
More historical info in the photo comments.
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K O F U K U - J I T E M P L E
The Kofuku-ji temple is one of the temples in the West Japan 33 temple pilgrimage route, and features an impressive wooden Pagoda.
More historical info in the photo comments.
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