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Nara, only 30 minutes away from the old capital of Kyoto, was where the very first capital of Japan was founded 1300 years ago. Nara was a splendor in its time – a world of silks, Chinese scripts and Buddhist culture set in a sleepy landscape, distinctively different from Zen colored Kyoto. Built by the emperor Shomu, a convert to Buddhism, Nara played an important role in the spread of Buddhism in Japan, as evidenced by the ancient temples that still dot this city.

Following the opening celebration of the 1300th Anniversary on January 1, 2010 with music, dance and theatrical performances, the major event site throughout the year of 2010 will be in Heijokyo Palace, symbolized with a remarkable red-roofed Suzaku-mon Gate. From April 24 through November 7, 2010, the Palace will exhibit the early history and the founding process of Nara capital, as well as the life and culture of the era. The biggest day at the Palace will be April 23, 2010, when they celebrate the completion of the restoration of Daikoku-den, the Former Imperial Audience Hall. Heijokyo Palace will appear with the dignity of the Capital with flowers in spring, then multiple LED lights and candles from August 20 through 27.

Nara is also a live museum for Buddhist art fans: The city houses numerous ancient Buddhist statues, scrolls of prayers and paintings, accommodated in the over 1000 years old wooden architectural structures. The anniversary year introduces the unique historic elements of Nara to today’s global community.

Nara’s historic buildings and art pieces are designated as UNESCO’s World Cultural Heritage sites. One of the significant sites is Horyu-ji Temple, the world’s oldest remaining wooden structure to this day, and contains 48 Buddhist monuments, among which the oldest is from the late 7th or early 8th century.

For complete anniversary event information, go visit the official site