法隆寺

奈良国立博物館

One of Japan’s leading national art museums, the Nara National Museum offers a peaceful, historic setting to explore exceptional Buddhist art and cultural treasures. Visitors can admire ancient sculptures, sacred scrolls and rotating exhibitions that bring Nara’s religious and artistic heritage to life.

奈良公園

Nara Park is a serene, historic green space at the foot of Mount Wakakusa where over 1,200 free-roaming sika deer—designated a natural treasure—mingle with visitors amid ancient temples and shrines. Wander tree-lined paths, feed the friendly deer with special crackers, and soak up seasonal colors and world-class sights like Tōdai-ji, Kasuga Taisha and the Nara National Museum.

東大寺

Tōdai-ji in Nara is a UNESCO World Heritage temple famed for its colossal Great Buddha Hall, which houses the world's largest bronze Vairocana — the Daibutsu. Step inside the vast hall to marvel at the towering statue and Tang-inspired architecture, and stroll the historic complex to feel centuries of reconstruction and devotion up close.

依水園

Isuien Garden in Nara is a beautifully preserved Meiji‑era strolling garden and the only walking garden in the city. Originally two separate gardens, each section features its own pagoda, inviting quiet walks around ponds and framed views that evoke Nara’s timeless charm.

春日大社

Kasuga Taisha in Nara is a centuries‑old Shinto shrine founded by the Fujiwara family in 768 CE, its buildings lovingly rebuilt over time. Inside, rows of hanging bronze lanterns and a long approach lined with stone lanterns create a quiet, almost otherworldly atmosphere perfect for slow wandering and photos.

金閣寺

Kinkaku-ji’s gleaming Golden Pavilion, its top two floors sheathed in thin gold leaf, appears to float above a mirror-like pond — an image that defines Kyoto’s timeless beauty. Stroll the peaceful paths, soak up the Zen atmosphere, and capture seasonal moments from cherry blossoms to fiery autumn leaves reflected in the water.

伏見稲荷大社

Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto is the chief shrine dedicated to the kami Inari, set at the foot of Mount Inari. Walk through its famous vermilion torii gates and follow the mountain trails that span about 4 km — a roughly two-hour route that leads to dozens of smaller shrines and an unforgettable, atmospheric hike.

清水寺

Set on the eastern slopes of Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera is a centuries-old Buddhist temple devoted to Jūichimen Kannon and one of the few temples that predate Heian‑kyō—now part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto UNESCO site. Wander the atmospheric precincts with pilgrims, learn about its hibutsu (hidden) Kannon image, and if you visit in winter you can witness the annual Kanji of the Year ceremony held each December 12.

嵐山

Nestled on Kyoto’s western edge, Arashiyama pairs a dramatic mountain backdrop with riverside charm and nationally protected scenic beauty. Wander the famous bamboo groves, cross the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge and visit serene temples while soaking up cherry blossoms in spring and fiery maples in autumn.

二条城

Nijō Castle in Kyoto is a sprawling flatland fortress with two concentric rings of fortifications surrounding the Ninomaru Palace, the ruins of the Honmaru Palace, and several gardens. Stroll the extensive grounds to explore the palatial spaces and ruins, admire seasonal garden views, and feel layers of Japan’s feudal history come alive.

祇園

Gion is Kyoto’s atmospheric geisha quarter beside Yasaka Shrine, born in the Sengoku era and famed for its wooden machiya, narrow lanes and elegant teahouses. Stroll at dusk to glimpse maiko in kimono, step into centuries of refined entertainment, or visit during the lively Gion Matsuri for an unforgettable taste of traditional Japan.