A Solo Cultural Sojourn in Nara: Exploring Japan's Historical Heart

Reflections on Nara's Artistic and Historical Tapestry

Today was a day of diving deep into Nara's rich cultural offerings, a blend of artistic expression and historical significance that resonated with my soul. As a restorer of antique furniture, I find myself drawn to the stories and craftsmanship of the past, and Nara certainly didn't disappoint.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Happy Kitchen Kin-no-shika. Fuelled up, I set off to explore the treasures of Nara, starting with the Kasuga Taisha Kokuhoden Museum.


Experience authentic Japanese flavors at Happy Kitchen Kin-no-shika in Nara – where tradition meets taste in every dish.

Kasuga Taisha Kokuhoden Museum: A Glimpse into Sacred Artifacts

The Kasuga Taisha Kokuhoden Museum, or National Treasure Hall, was my first stop. As someone who appreciates the artistry and history embedded in antique furniture, I was eager to see the collection of sacred artifacts housed within. The museum is not very big, but it has two floors. The entrance on the first floor is modern, and the colorful drums used in the festival are also displayed.


Immerse yourself in the ancient history and cultural richness of Japan at Kasuga Taisha Kokuhoden Museum in Nara.

The museum houses an extraordinary collection of items, including 352 National Treasures and 971 Important Cultural Properties. I was particularly drawn to the Taiko Drum Hall, which features a pair of massive daidaiko drums used during sacred Bugaku performances at the Kasuga Wakamiya Festival. Each drum stands 6.5 meters tall and is the largest of its kind in active use in Japan.

The essence of Nara lies not just in its ancient structures, but in the stories and artistry woven into every artifact and landscape.

The second-floor gallery showcased another daidaiko from the Kamakura period, believed to have been donated by Minamoto no Yoritomo, along with rare ritual offerings made to the shrine's deities. I was captivated by the immersive art space called Shingaki, which evokes the sacred spirit of Kasuga. One installation, Kannabi, used a reflective water basin and overhead imagery to recreate the mystical atmosphere of Kasuga's sacred forest. Another piece, titled Kasuga, projected images of the shrine's landscape onto a multi-layered lattice of iron frames. It felt like stepping into the spiritual essence of Kasuga itself.

Heijo Palace Site Museum: Tracing the Footsteps of Emperors

Next on my itinerary was the Heijo Palace Site Museum. This UNESCO World Heritage Site transports visitors back to the Nara period, when it served as the imperial capital from 710 to 784 AD. The palace was the epicenter of Japanese governance, featuring the emperor's residence, government buildings, and halls for state ceremonies.


Explore the Heijo Palace Site Museum in Nara, where Japan's ancient capital comes to life through captivating archaeological treasures.

Significant efforts have been made to reconstruct parts of the palace, such as the Daigokuden, the main audience hall where the emperor presided over court affairs and received dignitaries. I explored the sprawling grounds and reconstructed buildings, gaining insights into the architectural styles and urban planning of ancient Japan. The Heijo Palace Museum featured archaeological finds and artifacts that offered a window into the lives of those who walked these grounds over a millennium ago.

The Nara Palace Site Museum showcases findings from the excavation surveys of the Heijo Palace and the Heijo-Kyo ruins conducted by the Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties since 1959. The permanent exhibits feature actual excavated items from the Heijo Palace ruins and dioramas recreating the interiors of government offices and palaces from that era.

Nara City Museum of Art: A Modern Contrast

In the afternoon, I visited the Nara City Museum of Art. The museum primarily displays works of artists who worked in Nara Prefecture and includes a recently expanded permanent collection, in addition to various special exhibitions.


Discover the exquisite artistry of Japan at the Nara City Museum of Art, showcasing a diverse collection from traditional to contemporary works.

The museum is located near the nationally designated Isuien garden, which is divided into front and back sections with different historical landscapes. The garden offers picturesque views of Todaiji's South Gate and the surrounding mountains. I found the serene exhibition space to be a welcome contrast to the bustling city outside.

Vierra Nara: A Modern Shopping Experience

Before dinner, I decided to explore Vierra Nara, a shopping complex inside the JR Nara Station building. I was looking for a spot to pick up a few souvenirs and perhaps a treat for Elke and Maximilian back home. The name VIERRA is a combination of the Spanish words vida (life) and tierra (earth), conveying the meaning of facilities that bring convenience to daily life and are familiar to people.


Discover a shopping paradise at Vierra Nara, where modern retail meets traditional Japanese culture in the heart of Nara.

Vierra Nara has a supermarket where you can pick up fresh supplies for a picnic in Nara Park. On the second floor, there is a bakery cafe and a range of souvenir shops selling local craft and culinary specialties such as sushi, sweets, and sake. It’s a great location to pick up last-minute souvenirs before getting on the train.

I ended up buying a few small trinkets and some local sweets, hoping they would survive the journey back to Heidelberg. I also grabbed a couple of bottles of local sake, thinking it would be a nice way to share a taste of Nara with Elke.

A Culinary Finale at Monsieur Pépé

For dinner, I chose Monsieur Pépé, a restaurant recommended for its delightful French cuisine. After a day filled with historical and artistic exploration, it was a treat to indulge in a different kind of artistry – the culinary kind. The meal was a perfect ending to a day of discovery.


Discover the charm of French cuisine at Monsieur Pépé, a delightful café in Nara serving exquisite pastries and savory dishes.

As I reflect on the day, I am struck by the harmonious blend of ancient and modern that defines Nara. The city's ability to preserve its historical treasures while embracing contemporary culture is truly remarkable. I am grateful for the opportunity to have immersed myself in this unique environment, and I look forward to what tomorrow brings.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit Todaiji Nandaimon, The Garden of the Former Daijyo-in Temple, and Sarusawa-ike Pond. I am also planning to have dinner at La Terrasse. Perhaps I'll even find time to visit blue note Naramachi for a nightcap. Until then, I bid you goodnight from Nara, a city that continues to inspire and captivate.