Nara is less than one hour by train from Kyoto and Osaka. In the past, Nara was the first permanent capital, and as such, it remains full of historic treasures, including some of Japan’s oldest and largest temples.

Nara was established in 710 at Heijo, now known as Nara. As the influence and political ambitions of the city’s powerful Buddhist monasteries grew to become a serious threat to the government, the capital was moved to Nagaoka in 784. There are many splendid temples to visit, gardens, and great parkland where you will find Naraā€™s most infamous inhabitants, namely the 1,200 shika (deer), once believed to be messengers of the gods. You can buy food for them at kiosks in the park, but be warned, although not dangerous, the deer can be quite ā€œplayfulā€ and frequently attempt to nibble clothing items.

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