Although the former Heijo Palace site lies outside the centre of the tourist action that centres around the Nara Deer Park, it is nevertheless Nara's most important historical landmark.
Heijo Palace served as the Japanese imperial residence from 710-784.
Heijo Palace Historical National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Historic gates and huge park
Heijo Palace itself has not survived and in its place is a huge empty area surrounded by a park and the only surviving building, Daiichiji Palace.
The beautiful historic gates of Daigokuden to the north and Suzakumon to the south also remain.
Entrance fees and opening hours
The park is open every day 24/7. The historic gates are open from 9:00-16:30, but you can easily bypass the gates.
Admission is free.
Official website: heijo-park.jp
How to get there
Is it worth the trip to the grounds of the former Heijo Palace?
If you have plenty of time in Nara and are interested in historical buildings, then you definitely won't go wrong with a visit. However, expect to have to walk a relatively long distance from the nearest public transport stations (about 1.5 km one way).
The nearest public bus stop is called "Suzakumonhirobazen" and is located on the main road about 200 meters from the south gate of Suzakumon.
Lines 160 and 161 pass through the station in the direction of Nara-JR, Kintetsu Nara and Kintetsu Yamato-Saidaiji train stations.
What to see around
Discover all the places to see in Nara.
