Visit Nara

Definitely worth a detour, this attractive temple, said to have been founded around 824 by Kobo Daishi, has spectacular traditional gardens and a beautiful pond. The stately main wooden gate with a bell tower is flanked by azalea hedges that lead to the temple complex, landscaped with flowers for every season. The main hall has some striking bronze Buddhist statues and a masterpiece painting depicting hell by 16th century painter Kano Sanraku (only on display from late October to November). The lantern festival on the third weekend in September sees the temple illuminated by hundreds of lanterns and candles.