🗺️ Sarusawa Pond Park猿沢池園地

Nara Park is home to cultural heritage sites such as Kasuga-taisha and Kofuku-ji, boasting magnificent and lush natural landscapes. Within the expansive park, there is a scenic spot called "Sarusawa Pond" that is conveniently located near the city center. Sarusawa Pond is situated near the Sanjo shopping street and features an artificial pond with a circumference of 360 meters, surrounded by willows that sway gracefully. The beauty of the reflection of Kofuku-ji's five-story pagoda and the willows on the pond's surface has been celebrated as one of the "Eight Views of Nanto" since the Muromachi period. Benches are available around the pond, making it a perfect place to relax during sightseeing breaks. *As of September 2023, the five-story pagoda is undergoing a large-scale renovation for the first time in 120 years, currently surrounded by white curtains. The project is expected to be completed by 2031. The pond has a long history, with local legends and stories of the Seven Wonders associated with it. The most well-known tale is that of a court lady from the Nara period who, feeling neglected by the emperor, tragically drowned herself in despair. Every year, during the full moon of the Mid-Autumn Festival, the "Saruwa Festival" is held to soothe the spirit of the court lady and pray for the happiness of the people.

The artificial pond in Nara Park is a well-known scenic spot. The reflection of the Five-Story Pagoda of Kofuku-ji and the willow trees on the surface of the pond is breathtakingly beautiful. There are benches provided, making it a resting place for both locals and tourists. In September 2023, the Five-Story Pagoda underwent a large-scale renovation for the first time in 120 years, and it is currently surrounded by white curtains. The project is expected to be completed in 2031.