NaraTravel

Stroll through the sprawling palace site resembling grassland and explore the reconstructed First Daidokuden (Grand Audience Hall)

About this spot

This national park is developed on the site of Heijō Palace, where the capital was established in 710, and features an expansive grassland often compared in size to approximately 30 baseball fields. The reconstructed First Daidokuden is free to enter and impresses visitors with its vivid vermilion columns and the stunning recreation of the Takamikura (imperial throne). In 2022, the Great Suzaku Gate (大極門) to the south was also reconstructed, gradually bringing the ancient palace to life. The Ruins Exhibition Hall showcases excavated remains in situ, while the East Garden displays the authentic landscape design of the Nara period. Most notably, the unobstructed open field allows children to run freely without restraint. The charming view of Kintetsu trains cutting across the park's edge just beyond is unique to this place, delighting train-enthusiast children. This is a World Heritage site where you can walk freely across the grassland, offering something special for each member of three generations.

Tips

About 15–20 minutes on foot from Kintetsu Yamato-Saidaiji Station, or accessible via Nara Kotsu buses and the Gurutto Bus. There is paid parking at the Suzaku Gate Plaza. The grounds are vast with minimal shade, so hats and water are essential. While paved pathways are well-maintained and accessible by stroller, the distance to the Daidokuden is considerable, so plan frequent rest stops to accommodate grandparents' pace.