Nara

This world-class museum of Buddhist art is divided into two sections. — Lonely Planet

Completed in 752, this temple complex was conceived by Emperor Shomu in the 8th century as the seat of authority for Buddhist Japan. — Fodor's

As you walk east from either the JR or Kintetsu Station, this is the first temple you reach. — Frommer's

Despite countless repairs over the centuries, the Toshodai-ji remains a shining example of architecture dating from the Nara period. — Michelin Guide

'Garden of the Gods' within the shrine precincts. — Lonely Planet

This temple was founded in 747 by Empress Komyo (701–760) in gratitude for the recovery of her sick husband, Emperor Shomu. — Fodor's

Famous for the more than 2,000 stone mantoro (lanterns) that line its pathways, Kasuga Taisha is a monument to the Shinto tradition of worshipping nature. — Fodor's

Yakushi-ji was established by Emperor Tenmu in 680. — Lonely Planet

Enshrines Japan's legendary ninth emperor. — Lonely Planet