Local Spirit Record
Nara
奈良
Nara Knowledge
Nara was Japan's first permanent capital. It is a land of ancient temples, giant Buddhas, and sacred deer that roam freely as messengers of the gods.
Historical Context
As the capital in the 8th century, Nara was the eastern terminus of the Silk Road. Buddhism flourished here, leaving massive monuments.
Local Folklore
The deer of Nara Park are divine messengers. The Gangō-ji temple has a famous legend of a demon (Gagoze) that was hunted there.
Notable Locations
Nara Park
Park where over 1,000 sacred deer roam, considered messengers of the Kasuga deities.
Gangō-ji Temple
Ancient temple famous for the legend of the Gagoze, a demon that disguised itself as a monk.
Mount Omine
A sacred peak for Shugendo ascetics, believed to be inhabited by powerful Tengu.
Todai-ji
Houses the Great Buddha, guarded by fierce Nio statues that ward off evil spirits.