Heijō Palace Site: A Journey Through Japan's Imperial History
Explore the Heijō Palace Site Historical National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Nara, where history and nature beautifully intertwine.
Discover the Heijō Palace Site Historical National Park in Nara, Japan, where ancient history and stunning landscapes converge. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers tourists a glimpse into Japan’s imperial past amidst beautiful gardens and historical architecture.
A brief summary to Heijō Palace Site Historical National Park
- 3 Chome-5-1 Nijoojiminami, Nara, 3 Chome Nijoojiminami, Nara, 630-8012, JP
- +81742-36-8780
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during cherry blossom season for a breathtaking view of the blooms.
- Check the schedule for cultural events and exhibitions to enhance your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll want to explore the extensive grounds.
- Bring a camera to capture the beautiful landscape and historical architecture.
Getting There
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Train
From Kyoto Station, take the Kintetsu Line (Kintetsu Nara Line) towards Nara. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes. Get off at Nara Station. From Nara Station, exit the station and head south on Sanjo-dori Street for about 10 minutes until you reach the intersection with Nijoo Street. Turn left on Nijoo Street and walk for about 15 minutes until you arrive at Heijō Palace Site Historical National Park, located at 3 Chome-5-1 Nijoojiminami.
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Bus
From Kyoto Station, take the Kyoto City Bus #205 towards Nara. The bus ride will take around 1 hour. Get off at the 'Nara Kotsu Center' stop. From there, transfer to the Nara City Bus #1 or #2 and ride until you reach the 'Heijo-kyo' stop. Walk for about 5 minutes south on the main road until you arrive at Heijō Palace Site Historical National Park.
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Bicycle
If you prefer to cycle, you can rent a bicycle at any of the rental shops in Kyoto. Start from Kyoto Station and head southeast towards the Nara Road. Follow the road signs directing you to Nara, which is approximately a 40km ride. Once you arrive in Nara, navigate towards the Heijō Palace Site Historical National Park, located at 3 Chome-5-1 Nijoojiminami, following local maps or GPS navigation.
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Walking
While walking from Kyoto to Nara is not common due to the distance (approximately 40 km), if you are an adventurous traveler, you can take the following route: Start from Kyoto Station and head southeast towards the Nara Road. It will take several hours to trek across the countryside, so plan accordingly with water, food, and rest stops. Once you reach Nara, head towards the Heijō Palace Site Historical National Park at 3 Chome-5-1 Nijoojiminami.
Discover more about Heijō Palace Site Historical National Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Suzakumon Square
0.1 km
Experience the serene charm of Suzakumon Square in Nara, Japan - where history meets natural beauty in a tranquil park setting.
Heijō Palace Site Historical Park
0.5 km
Explore the Heijō Palace Site Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Nara, Japan, rich in history and natural beauty.
Nara City Museum of Art
0.8 km
Discover the exquisite artistry of Japan at the Nara City Museum of Art, showcasing a diverse collection from traditional to contemporary works.
天極堂 ＪＲ奈良駅店
2.3 km
Explore the exquisite world of Japanese sweets at Tenjiku Cafe in Nara, where tradition meets taste in a delightful culinary experience.
Nara Station
2.3 km
Discover the charm of Nara Station, your gateway to Japan's ancient capital filled with cultural treasures, serene parks, and majestic temples.
JR Nara Sta. (East Gate)
2.4 km
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NARANICLE
2.9 km
NARANICLE: Your essential tourist information center for exploring the historic treasures of Nara, Japan.
Daibutsu Pudding Kintetsu Nara Shop
3.1 km
Experience the sweet side of Nara at Daibutsu Pudding Kintetsu Nara Shop, famous for its creamy puddings and delectable desserts.
Genkishin (Nara)
3.2 km
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Nara Craft Museum
3.2 km
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Toyo-no-akari
3.2 km
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塔の茶屋
3.2 km
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Hosekibako
3.2 km
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Koushi
3.3 km
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Sarusawa-ike Monument
3.4 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Suzakumon Gate
0.0 km
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Heijokyu Izanai-kan （Guidance Center）
0.1 km
Discover the rich history of Nara at Heijokyu Izanai-kan, a local history museum and gateway to the treasures of Japan's ancient capital.
Tempyo Miharashi-kan
0.2 km
Explore Nara's cultural gems at Tempyo Miharashi-kan, your ultimate visitor center for insights, exhibits, and breathtaking views of Japan's ancient capital.
Daiichiji Daigokudenin Daigokumon (Nammon, South Gate)
0.6 km
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Restoration Project Information Center
0.6 km
Explore the Restoration Project Information Center in Nara, a gateway to Japan's imperial past and a hub for cultural heritage enthusiasts.
Dainiji Daigokuden Ruins
0.7 km
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NARA KINGYO MUSEUM
0.7 km
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To-in Teien Garden
0.8 km
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Heijo Palace Site Museum
0.8 km
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Daiichiji Daigokuden
0.8 km
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Nara Palace Site Museum, Excavation Site Exhibition Hall
0.9 km
Discover the rich history of Japan's ancient capital at the Nara Palace Site Museum, featuring captivating exhibitions and archaeological treasures.
Nara
1.0 km
Explore Nara, Japan's ancient capital, where historical treasures, serene parks, and friendly deer create an unforgettable cultural journey.
Cherry Trees on the Saho River
1.3 km
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Minakami Pond
1.5 km
Experience tranquility at Minakami Pond in Sakicho, Nara, Japan, a serene destination for nature lovers and peaceful retreats.
Toshodai-ji
1.5 km
Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of Toshodai-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Buddhist temple in the heart of Nara, Japan.
Essential places to dine
Silk Road Dining
1.0 km
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Azekura
1.0 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Azekura in Nara's JW Marriott Hotel—where tradition meets modern luxury.
kotan
1.5 km
Experience exquisite Kaiseki dining at Kotan in Nara – where seasonal ingredients meet culinary artistry for an unforgettable meal.
Wa Yamamura
1.7 km
Discover the art of Kaiseki dining at Wa Yamamura in Nara—an exquisite blend of tradition and seasonal flavors awaits you.
onwa
2.2 km
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Wadokoro Yoshino
2.3 km
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Tori Tamura
2.5 km
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Yamatoan Honten
2.5 km
Discover Yamatoan Honten: A culinary haven in Nara offering authentic Japanese kaiseki cuisine and fresh seafood delicacies.
Surugamachi's Okonomiyakiya
2.5 km
Experience authentic okonomiyaki at Surugamachi's Okonomiyakiya in Nara – where tradition meets flavor at affordable prices.
Kinatei
2.6 km
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Ciel Bleu
2.7 km
Experience the art of teppanyaki at Ciel Bleu in Nara—where exquisite flavors meet captivating culinary performances.
Unagino Kawahara
2.7 km
Experience authentic Japanese dining at Unagino Kawahara in Nara—home of exquisite grilled eel and traditional hospitality.
Manna Food
2.8 km
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The Olive Dining
3.0 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine in Nara at The Olive Dining - where every meal is crafted with love and tradition.
Baku Izakaya
3.1 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
KIRARI
0.7 km
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& Maraika BAZAAR
0.7 km
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ファンシー雑貨バラエティ101 ミナーラ店
0.7 km
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Mi Nara
0.8 km
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Nakagawamasashichishoten Nara Tsutaya Book Store
1.1 km
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TSUTAYA BOOKS Nara Store
1.1 km
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2nd Street Nara Hokkejicho
1.2 km
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UP-PLACE STORE NARA
1.2 km
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Kintetsu Department Store Nara
1.3 km
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Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten, Kintetsu Department Store Nara
1.3 km
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Nara Family
1.3 km
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Hands Nara Store
1.3 km
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Yamato-Saidaiji Station
1.3 km
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Ryohinkaikan Naraten
2.1 km
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Silkia Nara
2.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
BARスターライト 日本一のバーテンダーのお店
1.4 km
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Bar 'Pippin
1.7 km
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3 LIONS England Sports Bar
1.7 km
Experience the excitement of British sports culture at 3 LIONS England Sports Bar in Nara, offering great drinks, delicious snacks, and live game screenings.
bar RISE
1.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Bar RISE in Nara - a must-visit bar offering a unique blend of drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Old Time
2.3 km
Discover the charming Old Time bar in Nara, where tradition meets modernity in a cozy atmosphere, perfect for savoring local drinks.
Bar PIRATES
2.5 km
Discover the lively pirate-themed Bar PIRATES in Nara, where you can enjoy an extensive drink menu and vibrant nightlife in a unique atmosphere.
shishabar Re'bel
2.5 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and authentic Japanese barbecue at Shishabar Re'bel in Nara, a culinary gem for food enthusiasts.
Nara, Bar.d
2.5 km
Experience the lively nightlife at Nara, Bar.d, where darts, karaoke, and friendly vibes create unforgettable moments in the heart of Nara.
Woo Koo Bar?
2.5 km
Discover Nara's nightlife at Woo Koo Bar, where vibrant cocktails and lively music create the perfect evening atmosphere.
BAR315.nara
2.5 km
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HAOH SURUGAMACHI
2.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at HAOH SURUGAMACHI, Nara's premier bar and live music venue, where unforgettable experiences await.
AUTHENTIC TABLE TAVERN
2.7 km
Experience the finest Western cuisine in Nara at Authentic Table Tavern, where delightful flavors meet warm hospitality.
LAMP BAR
3.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Lamp Bar in Nara, where modern bar culture meets traditional Japanese hospitality for an unforgettable night out.
shisha&bar vanguard
3.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Nara at Vanguard Shisha & Bar, where exquisite shisha and cocktails meet a lively atmosphere.
Light
3.1 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and local flavors at Light, a charming pub in the heart of Nara, Japan.
