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Heijō Palace Site Historical National Park: Stepping Back into Nara-Era Japan

Explore Japan's ancient capital at Heijō Palace Site Historical National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Nara, with reconstructed palaces and museums.

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Explore the ruins of the Heijō Palace, the heart of Japan's capital during the Nara period (710-794 AD). Wander through reconstructed buildings like the Daigokuden and Suzaku Gate, and delve into ancient Japanese history and culture at this expansive UNESCO World Heritage site.

A brief summary to Heijō Palace Site Historical National Park

  • 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

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the park is expansive and requires a good amount of walking.
  • Visit the Nara Palace Site Museum to deepen your understanding of the palace's history and significance.
  • Check the park's event calendar for seasonal festivals and cultural performances.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are limited options for refreshments within the park.
  • Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the park and its attractions.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Kintetsu Nara Station, take the Kintetsu train to Yamato-Saidaiji Station (approx. 5 minutes, ¥240). From there, it's about a 15-minute walk east to the Heijō Palace Site. Alternatively, from either JR Nara Station or Kintetsu Nara Station, take bus number 14 towards Yamato-Saidaiji Station. Get off at the Heijokyuseki bus stop (approx. 15-25 minutes, ¥290), which is near the Excavation Site Exhibition Hall.

  • Walking

    From Kintetsu Yamato-Saidaiji Station, walk approximately 15 minutes east to reach the Heijō Palace Site. Follow the signs, which are clearly marked in English and Japanese.

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Discover more about Heijō Palace Site Historical National Park

Heijō Palace Site Historical National Park invites visitors to journey back in time to the Nara period, when Heijō-kyō (present-day Nara) served as Japan's capital. From 710 to 794 AD, this palace was the center of political and cultural life, modeled after the Tang Dynasty capitals of Chang'an and Luoyang. Today, the park features reconstructed structures like the Daigokuden (Imperial Audience Hall), where emperors once presided over important ceremonies and met with foreign dignitaries. The Suzaku Gate, the main entrance to the palace, stands as a symbol of the era's grandeur. Visitors can also explore the East Palace Garden, offering a glimpse into aristocratic life. The park also houses the Nara Palace Site Museum, where artifacts from the Nara period are displayed, providing insights into the daily lives of the imperial court. Ongoing excavations offer a unique opportunity to witness history in the making. The Heijō Palace Site is a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its historical and cultural significance.

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