Heijo Palace

Travel back 1,300 years to a time when Nara was the most important place in japan. Nara, although remaining an integral part of Japan, was the ancient capital of Japan in the eighth century. Visiting the site of Heijo Palace in Nara offers the chance to imagine what the area might have been like when it was the beating heart of Japan.

One of the highlights of the Heijo Palace site is the accurately restored and maintained Daikokuden and Taikyokumon (South Gate). These buildings were completed in March 2022 as part of the ongoing efforts to preserve and showcase the history of Nara. The restoration work is a testament to the dedication and commitment of the Japanese people in preserving their cultural heritage.

Another must-see attraction in the restored Heijo Palace is the Toin garden. The beautiful ponds, buildings, and bridges in the garden are a sight to behold. The meticulous restoration work has brought back the charm and elegance of the ancient capital, allowing visitors to experience the grandeur of the past.

For those interested in learning more about the restoration techniques used in preserving World Heritage sites, the Fukugenjigyo Joho-kan reconstruction information center is a must-visit. Here, visitors can gain insights into the meticulous process of preserving and restoring historical sites, ensuring that future generations can continue to appreciate and learn from Japan’s rich cultural heritage.

Now, let’s explore how to get to Heijo Palace. The site is conveniently located just a 15-minute walk from Yamato-Saidaiji Station. If you’re coming from Kintetsu Nara Station, you can take a four-minute ride to Yamato-Saidaiji Station and then walk to Heijo Palace. Alternatively, you can take a bus from JR Nara Station West Exit or Kintetsu Nara Station to Gakuemmae Station and get off at Suzakumon Hiroba-mae bus stop. The accessibility of Heijo Palace makes it a convenient destination for both domestic and international visitors.

Once you arrive at Heijo Palace, you will be transported back in time to the ancient capital of Nara. Excavations are still underway at the site, and the restoration and maintenance of the 8th-century buildings bring back to life the ancient capital’s bygone days. The most significant reconstruction is the Daigokuden, also known as the Former Imperial Audience Hall. This building was rebuilt as part of the 1300th anniversary of the founding of the Nara Heijo-kyo capital. The reconstruction is a remarkable feat of engineering and showcases the architectural prowess of the ancient Japanese civilization.

In addition to the Daigokuden, there are other reconstructions worth seeing at Heijo Palace. The Suzaku Gate and the East Palace Garden are also meticulously restored to their former glory. These reconstructions provide a glimpse into the opulence and grandeur of the ancient capital, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the history and culture of Japan.

For those interested in artifacts and relics from the past, the Excavation Site Exhibition Hall is a must-visit. Here, you can see remnants of the original buildings and witness ongoing excavation work. The exhibition hall provides a unique opportunity to learn about the history of Nara and the architectural techniques used in constructing the ancient capital.

To delve deeper into the history of Nara, a visit to the Nara Palace Site Museum is highly recommended. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts and objects from the Nara period, giving visitors a sense of what life was like in the former heart of Japan. The exhibits provide valuable insights into the cultural, social, and political aspects of the ancient capital, allowing visitors to develop a deeper appreciation for the rich history of Nara.

It’s important to note that the information on this page may be subject to change due to COVID-19. Therefore, it’s advisable to check for any updates or restrictions before planning your visit to Heijo Palace.

In conclusion, a visit to Heijo Palace in Nara is a journey back in time to the ancient capital of Japan. The accurately restored and maintained buildings, the beautiful Toin garden, and the opportunity to learn about the restoration techniques used in preserving World Heritage sites make Heijo Palace a must-visit destination for history and culture enthusiasts. Whether you’re a local or an international visitor, the charm and grandeur of Heijo Palace will leave you in awe of Japan’s rich cultural heritage. So, plan your trip to Nara and immerse yourself in the history and beauty of Heijo Palace.

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