Nara: Avoiding Crowds at Nanto Daian-ji

“Cheap, superficial, and narrow.” 🌟🍃 This is the self-mocking description of the current state of tourism in Nara by the Nara Prefecture Tourism Bureau. As a peripheral city in the Kansai tourism circuit, most visitors spend no more than a day in Nara. 🦌 The deer have become the city's most iconic feature, overshadowing its rich cultural heritage. Nara, with its 1,300-year history, predates Kyoto by an entire era. 🌟🍃 It was a meticulously planned city, modeled after a 1/2 scale version of the Tang Dynasty capital Chang'an. It is the birthplace of Buddhism's flourishing in Japan and a perfect weekend getaway destination, offering experiences in accommodation, dining, and shopping that rival those in Kyoto. 🌿 🪷 Pilgrimage to Nanto Daiji #AncientArchitecture Enthusiasts Rejoice. 🌟🍃Without even mentioning Todai-ji and Kofuku-ji, there are still plenty of hidden gems to explore. The ancient wooden structures of Horyu-ji in Asuka Town (though their authenticity is debated), the Golden Hall of Toshodai-ji, and the moss garden in front of the memorial temple of Jianzhen. The ancient tiles from the Nara period at Gango-ji are also worth a visit. 🌟🍃 Even on Saturdays, the crowds are sparse, giving you ample space to savor these historical sites at your leisure. #Nara 🌺