During Nara Period, Yamanoue no Okura and other Japanese ambassadors might have brought one of the palace events “Kikoden” from China. The Japanese Tanabatatsume Festival was combined with it. Then, the mythology “Orihime and Hikoboshi” was blended in to make up Tanabata. The origin is said to be a lavish festival held at Heijo Palace on July 7th of the old calendar (current August).
The highlight of this festival is “Tenpyo Tanabata Procession'' where Princess Orihime and Hikoboshi march the Heijo Palace remains, followed by aristocrats. The line of people dressed in glowing Tenpyo attire is magical, evoking the grand historical romance. The candles are likened to the Milky Way and are lit up around Suzakumon Gate during the sublime “Tokae @ Suzakumon.”
Moreover, the venue also gathers a collection of gourmet foods suitable for a summer night. You can enjoy a wide array of cuisine, from shaved ice, known nationwide as a specialty of Nara, to local Nara craft beer and other local specialties.
Highlights
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Recreated Tanabata Festival from Nara Period in Heijo Place.
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An array of artistic lighting turns summer evening magical.
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A lot of gourmet food such as Nara’s famous shaved ice or local craft beer.
