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Los Angeles Times
4 days ago
- Los Angeles Times
Nara: Step Into Ancient Japan, Where Deer Roam Free
Step back in time to Nara, Japan's captivating first permanent capital (710-794 CE). Just a short train ride from Kyoto or Osaka, this serene city offers a unique blend of ancient history and natural beauty, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a glimpse into Japan's foundations. Nara preserves its legacy with remarkable integrity, boasting a whopping eight UNESCO World Heritage sites, and is famously home to over a thousand sacred, free-roaming deer. Nara's establishment as the capital in 710 CE marked a pivotal moment, laying the groundwork for Japan's enduring culture. Modeled after China's Tang dynasty capital, its meticulously planned grid layout reflected a period of centralized government and immense cultural growth. This era was a crucible for early Japanese Buddhist art, literature, and political structures. The heart of the city is Nara Park, where over a thousand wild deer, believed to be messengers of the gods, roam freely and even bow for treats – you can even buy special crackers! Within the park stands Todaiji Temple, home to the colossal Great Buddha (Daibutsu). This 15-meter bronze statue is housed inside the Daibutsuden, the world's largest wooden building – a truly awe-inspiring sight that reflects the ambition of 8th-century Japan. Nearby, Kasuga Taisha Shrine is Nara's celebrated Shinto shrine, known for its thousands of stone and bronze lanterns that line its paths and illuminate the grounds, especially during the special festivals in February and August. Founded by the powerful Fujiwara clan, it highlights the intertwining of politics and religion. Don't miss Kofuku-ji Temple, distinguished by its towering five-story pagoda, a long-standing symbol of Nara and a key institution of the Fujiwara dynasty. Explore Naramachi, the old merchant district, with its preserved Edo-era buildings, quaint shops and local eateries. It's perfect for sampling kakinoha sushi (sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves) and finding unique souvenirs. Nara offers a unique journey into Japan's ancient soul, providing tangible connections to its formative past amid charming, free-roaming deer. It's an unforgettable destination where history truly comes alive.
Time Out
13-05-2025
- Time Out
Big changes are coming for Aussie travellers headed to Japan from mid-2025, and they'll cost you
Planning a trip to Japan in 2026? Aren't we all! Last year, Aussies flocked to Japan in record numbers to cash in on the weak yen (guilty!). The country's global tourist tally is forecasted to jump from 36 million in 2024 to 40 million in 2025, forcing Japan to roll out some new rules and fees to manage overtourism. From mid-2025, tourists will pay more to visit Japan's top attractions, with some prices almost doubling. Here's everything you need to know about Japan's tourism shake-up. The Japanese government has already implemented several measures to curb its crazy tourism numbers, including a compulsory fee to climb Mount Fuji, a tourist ban in Kyoto's Geisha district and a daily cap on tourist numbers in Ginza Onsen. Now, Japan's set to roll out a dual-pricing system, where foreign tourists will pay higher entry fees than local residents at cultural landmarks, historic sites and theme parks. While you might wince at the thought of paying more, Japan is introducing these steeper fees to help manage crowds, protect its sacred landmarks and reduce the stress on local communities. Plus, the extra funds will go towards maintaining and preserving these popular sites so we can keep enjoying them for generations to come. Bring on Japan 2050! So, what does this mean for any Aussies heading to Japan this year? Starting in July, Hokkaido's Niseko Ski Resorts will charge tourists ¥6,500 ($69 AUD) per day, while locals will pay only ¥5,000 ($53 AUD). Hikers on the Yoshida Trail up Mount Fuji will also be charged ¥4,000 ($43 AUD) for a climbing permit, which is double what it used to be, with local residents exempt. Japan's historic network of shrines and temples will jump on the price hike bandwagon too. While prices will vary between them, locals could pay as little as ¥500 ($5 AUD) to enter each site, compared to ¥1,000 ($10 AUD) for foreign tourists. Future price increases are expected at popular sites, including Kyoto's Kiyomizu Temple, Fushimi Inari Shrine and Nara's Todaiji Temple, with the government set to monitor how the dual-pricing system affects visitor numbers before rolling out any further changes. Over in the west, Himeji Castle is taking a more localised approach with its pricing. In a controversial move, it will offer cheaper entry only to local residents, instead of all Japanese nationals. Starting in March 2026, locals will continue paying ¥1,000 ($10 AUD) for entry, while visitors will be charged between ¥2,000 and ¥3,000 ($20-$30 AUD). Down south, Junglia Okinawa, a new nature-themed amusement park set to open in July, will also adopt a dual-pricing model. It will charge overseas tourists ¥8,800 ($93 AUD), compared to ¥6,930 ($74 AUD) for Japanese residents – a steep difference of almost 30 per cent. On top of the price hikes, Kyoto is also poised to implement a tax hike on hotels and lodgings in the city. If approved, the maximum tax rate will increase up to ten times per night. You can find out more about that here. Another key change to take note of is the shift in Japan's tax-free shopping system to a refund-based model. Beginning in November 2026, tourists will no longer receive tax exemptions at the register. Instead, you'll be required to pay the full amount, including consumption tax, and then file for a refund later. While there won't be any additional fees, it will introduce an extra layer of hassle to claim your refund. Finally, Japan is preparing to launch the Japan Electronic Travel Authorisation (JESTA) system in 2025. While Aussie travellers will still enjoy visa-free travel, you'll now need to apply for online clearance before entering the country. Don't take this as your sign to book a Japan trip ASAP – we don't want to contribute to the country's overtourism crisis. Instead, explore one of Japan's charming regional towns or discover some underrated gems closer to home.
