Naramachi
Nara’s old merchant district, known as Naramachi, is a historical area that offers a unique blend of traditional charm and contemporary chic. Once the domain of Nara’s merchants, this district is now home to museums, trendy boutiques, quirky cafes, and shops specializing in Japanese sweets. Along with its temples and cultural attractions, the fusion of traditional and modern facades in Naramachi makes it an intriguing place to explore.
Naramachi is particularly famous for its sweets shops that specialize in local confections. These shops offer a wide variety of traditional Japanese sweets, such as mochi, dorayaki, and wagashi. Visitors can indulge in these delicious treats while exploring the charming streets of Naramachi.
One of the must-visit attractions in Naramachi is the Nara Craft Museum. This museum showcases the rich artistic heritage of Nara, featuring a collection of traditional crafts and artworks. Visitors can learn about the history and techniques behind these crafts, as well as admire the intricate details and exquisite beauty of the artworks on display.
Another cultural relic in the Naramachi area is Gangoji Temple. This temple dates back to the Asuka period (552-645) and has influences from the Baekje Kingdom, a former kingdom of Korea. The temple’s architecture and roof tiles reflect the cultural exchange between japan and Korea during that time. Gangoji Temple is not only a place of worship but also a significant historical site that showcases the strong Korean influence in Nara.
To get to Naramachi, you can take a train to either JR or Kintetsu Nara Station from Osaka or Kyoto. From Kintetsu Nara Station, it is just a short walk to Sarusawa-no-ike Pond in Naramachi and about a 10-minute walk to the Gangoji Temple area. There are also loop buses available from both Kintetsu Nara Station and JR Nara Station that can take you to Naramachi.
Getting lost in the narrow lanes of Naramachi can be a great adventure. The neighborhood is filled with machiya, traditional townhouses that served as both storefronts and residences for merchants. These machiya have narrow frontages, which helped the merchants avoid heavy taxes based on street access. Today, many of these machiya have been converted into museums, where visitors can get a closer look at the architectural features and historical significance of these traditional houses.
One of the notable machiya museums in Naramachi is the Naramachi Nigiwai-no-le. This 100-year-old townhouse offers visitors a glimpse into the past, allowing them to experience life as it was in Nara. Another museum worth visiting is the Naramachi Koshi-no-Ie, an exact replica of a traditional townhouse from the old days. These museums provide a fascinating insight into the daily lives of the merchants who once lived in Naramachi.
As interest in machiya has grown, many of these traditional townhouses have been converted into stylish cafes, shops, and guesthouses. Visitors can now enjoy great food, quaint bars, handicrafts, traditional sweets, fashionable clothing boutiques, or even something completely unexpected in these beautifully restored machiya. Exploring the streets of Naramachi and discovering these hidden gems can easily fill up half a day of your itinerary.
In addition to the attractions in Naramachi, a visit to Nara wouldn’t be complete without exploring other famous landmarks in the city. Nara Park, Todaiji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and Kofukuji Temple are just a few of the must-visit sites that offer a glimpse into Nara’s rich cultural and historical heritage. Plan your itinerary carefully to make the most of your time in Nara and ensure you don’t miss out on any of the city’s highlights.
In conclusion, Naramachi in Nara is a fascinating district that combines the charm of its historical past with the vibrancy of contemporary culture. From its sweets shops and craft museums to its traditional townhouses and trendy cafes, Naramachi offers a unique blend of old and new. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a food lover, or simply someone looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience, Naramachi is a place that should not be missed. So, make sure to include Naramachi in your Nara itinerary and immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of this captivating district.
Address And Maps Location:
Nara-shi, Nara-ken
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