©Arukikata. Co. , Ltd.  |  ©Bringer Japan Z Inc.

Sarusawa Pond

Verified [Verified] denotes information that has been published with confirmation of its owing parties.

Sarusawa Pond

A scenic spot within Nara Park, where the five-storied pagoda reflects on the water's surface.

3.24 1

Last update :
Supervised by :  Nara Park

Sarusawa Pond, a part of Nara Park known for its cultural heritage sites like Kasugataisha Shrine and Kohfukuji Temple, along with its majestic natural landscapes, is a scenic spot easily accessible from the city area.

This man-made pond, located just past the Sanjo Street shopping district and spanning 360 meters in circumference, is surrounded by gracefully planted willow trees. The reflection of Kofuku-ji Temple's five-storied pagoda and the willows on the pond's surface creates a picturesque scene, cherished since the Muromachi period as one of the "Eight Views of Nara." Benches around the pond offer a serene spot to rest amidst sightseeing.
*As of September 2023, the pagoda is covered with white sheets for major renovations, the first in 120 years, with completion expected in 2031.

The pond has a rich history, with legends and seven mysteries associated with it. One of the most famous legends tells of a court lady who, lamenting the loss of the Emperor's favor, drowned herself in the pond. The Uneme Festival, held annually on the night of the mid-autumn full moon, commemorates her spirit and prays for the happiness of the people.

Highlights

  • A man-made pond within Nara Park, celebrated for its scenic beauty.
  • The reflections of Kofuku-ji Temple's five-storied pagoda and willows are a stunning sight.
  • Benches are available, making it a popular relaxation spot for locals and tourists alike.
  • As of September 2023, the pagoda is under extensive renovation, shrouded in white sheets, with the work expected to be completed by 2031.

Photos

  • The five-storied pagoda, surrounding trees, and the blue sky are reflected on the surface of the pond.

    The five-storied pagoda, surrounding trees, and the blue sky are reflected on the surface of the pond.

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Do you have signs or pamphlets in foreign languages? (If you do, which languages are available?)
A

Nara Park Walking Map is available in English.
Informational signs are available in English, Simplified Chinese, and Korean.

Q

Is free Wi-Fi available in the area?
A

NARA_Free_Wi-Fi is available

Q

Are coin lockers available?
A

Not available.

Q

Are there toilets available?
A

Yes, toilets are available on the south side of the pond.

Q

Is there a parking area?
A

There is no dedicated parking area. Please use the nearby prefectural (paid) parking lots or private coin-operated parking facilities.

Q

Are there any garbage disposal areas within Nara Park?
A

There are no trash cans within Nara Park. Please take your trash with you. Leaving trash behind can lead to deer accidentally consuming it and getting sick.

Reviews

1

Some reviews are AI-translated.

  • wendy
    See More

    When visiting Nara, besides visiting Kohfukuji Temple and Todaiji Temple, I also highly recommend walking over to Sarusawa Pond. Sarusawa Pond is an artificial pond with a circumference of about 360 meters. The willow trees along the shore sway in the breeze and are reflected on the water, with Kohfukuji Temple’s five-story pagoda in the distance, creating a very elegant Nara atmosphere. This scenery has been counted as one of the “Eight Views of Nanto” since the Muromachi period, giving it a real sense of history.

    There are benches around the pond, so when you get tired from walking, you can sit down and rest, gaze at the water, enjoy the breeze, and take in Nara’s leisurely pace. It is also very close to Kohfukuji Temple, so you do not need to set aside much extra time. After exploring the temple, it is just right for a stroll by the pond.

Details

Name in Japanese
猿沢池園地
Postal Code
630-8114
Address
543 Shibatsujicho, Nara City, Nara
Telephone
0742-22-0375（Nara Park Office）
Closed
Free to walk
Business Hours
Walk anytime
Admission
Free
Access
About 5 minutes walk from Kintetsu Nara Station
Official Website
Official Website (English)
Hokkaido Tohoku Kanto Chubu Hokuriku Kansai Chugoku Shikoku Kyushu Okinawa