Leave behind the bustle of Nara Park, pass beyond the crowds at Tōdaiji Temple, and venture further east into Nara. Fragments of the past, glimpses of history await you there. Encounter the diverse cultural treasures scattered throughout this area. Take time to pause, stand still, close your eyes and breathe deeply. Your connection to Yamatoji Nara will deepen, and you will feel your senses gently and richly awaken.
On this site, “East of Nara” (the Eastern District) refers to a broad area centred on what has long been known as Higashi Sanchū, extending from the vicinity of Hannyaji Temple in the Narazaka area, through Enjōji Temple and on to Yagyū, and further south from Yagyū to include the Mizuma and Tahara districts, and around Byakugōji Temple. Viewed on a map, this region spreads across the eastern side of Nara City and is characterised by a plateau landscape that rises to around 400 metres above sea level at its highest points. Historically, it has deep ties to Kasuga Taisha Shrine dating back to the Nara period, and is regarded as a region worthy of the name “Oku Kasuga.”
