Kojiki is the oldest surviving record of early Japanese history and was produced in the early 8th century. Written using a unique mixture of narratives, quotes, story telling and songs, Kojiki follows Japan’s Imperial lineage from mytho-logical times to the early 7th century. Kojiki shows Nara as center stage and the scene of many important historic events and epic dramas.
Yamato is
The highest part of the land
The mountains are green partitions
Lying layer upon layer
Nestled among the mountains
How beautiful is Yamato
Song translation from A Waka Anthology By Edwin A. Cranston stanford University Press December 1993
There are many places to see in Nara Prefecture that relate to the fascinating stories in Kojiki.
With rivers, mountains, shrines, historic sites, folklore, legends, and more,
we’re sure that you’re going to love it.
Getting Around IN nara
Nara is about a 30-minute train ride from Kyoto or Osaka, and getting around in Nara is easy. Major tourist destinations are connected by Nara’s extensive public transportation system. Rental bicycles are also a popular way to find your way around.
Kasugataisha Shrine
One of the most popular shrines in Nara, it enshrines many of the deities that are mentioned in Kojiki stories. (Nara City)
Former Site of Heijokyu
(Heijokyo Palace)
The country’s first official capital. This is where O no Yasumaro first presented Kojiki to Empress Genmei. (Nara City)
Isagawa Jinja Shrine
Empress Isuke-yori-hime, wife of Emperor Jimmu, is enshrined here. The shrine holds a Lily Festival each year on June 17th. (Nara City)
Miwa Myojin Shrine
(Ohmiwa Jinja Shrine)
One of Japan’s first shrines. Mt. Miwa is considered to be the dwelling place of the Great Deity O-mono-nushi. (Sakurai City)
Hibara Jinja Shrine
Part of the Miwa Shrine complex. It is well known for its beautiful scenery and view of the sun setting over Mt. Nijo. (Sakurai City)
Isonokami Jingu Shrine
One of Japan’s oldest and most important shrines. It is famous for its unique treasure of a seven-branched sword. (Tenri City)
Kashihara Jingu Shrine
Kojiki states that Emperor Jimmu governed from Kashihara Palace. This shrine was built on the site of the palace. (Kashihara City)
Former Site of
Asuka-no-kiyomihara-no-miya
(Asuka Palace)
Asuka-no-kiyomihara-no-miya was the palace of Emperor Tenmu, who first commissioned Kojiki. The palace was located on this site. (Asuka Village)
Ishibutai Tumulus
This immense stone burial mound from the Asuka Period is said to have been made for a member of the Soga clan. (Asuka Village)
Katsuragi Hitokotonushi
Jinja Shrine
It is said that if a pilgrim states his or her wish in a single word at this shrine, the wish will be granted. (Gose City)
Mt. Nijo
Emperor Richu escaped by going the south way around this mountain. From the top, you can see Nara in the East and the Port of Osaka in the West. (Katsuragi City)
Takamahiko Jinja Shrine
According to Kojiki, a number of heavenly deities came down to Japan. A descendant of those deities is enshrined here. (Gose City)
Yatagarasu Jinja Shrine
Take-tsunumi, the deity that transformed into the “Raven with Many Feet,” is enshrined here. (Uda City)
Soni Highland
Princess Medori and Prince Hayabusa-wake were killed here by the forces of Emperor Nintoku. (Soni Village)
Miyataki
On the Yoshino River, this place is near an area where Emperor Tenmu vacationed. (Yoshino Town)
NARA_Mahoroman-The Nihon Shoki's Journey,the videos for enjoying Nara in Chronicles