Nara became the capital of Japan from AD 710 to 784. The royal court of Empress Gemmei constructed a new capital modelled after the capital of Tang China, Chang'an (present day Xi'an), in AD 710. High civilization of the Middle Kingdom was introduced into Nara during the eighth century, following the fall of Baekje and the arrival of a massive influx of Korean people. Buddhism flourished under royal patronage. Even after the capital moved to Kyoto in 784, Buddhist temples remained powerful and enjoyed religious fame. Nara had been a Buddhist town for a long time.
In the modern age, Nara developed as a local center of commerce and government, for the prefectural government was seated here. The city was officially incorporated on February 1, 1898.
Because of its many temples and shrines, Nara is a famous tourist destination. Around temples and shrines, sacred deer wander around the streets and request food from tourists (deer food is sold on the premises).
Buddhist temples:
Todaiji
Saidaiji
Kofukuji
Gangoji
Yakushiji
Toshodaiji
Shinto shrines:
Kasuga Shrine
Imperial palace:
Heijo Palace
Other:
Nara-machi
Nara Park
Sarusawa Pond
Wakakusa-yama.