Heijo Palace

Heijo Palace was once the political and cultural heart of Japan’s ancient capital, Heijo-kyo, during most of the Nara Period (710–794). Covering an area of one square kilometer, it served as the imperial residence and the administrative center of the early Japanese state. Designed according to Chinese-influenced urban planning principles, the palace complex symbolized centralized power and courtly sophistication. After the capital moved to Nagaoka in 784, the site fell into disuse and gradually disappeared beneath farmland. Of the original buildings, only one hall survived—relocated centuries later to Toshodaiji Temple, where it remains preserved today.

Now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Heijo Palace site has been partially reconstructed to give visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Japan. Notable reconstructions include the majestic Former Audience Hall (Daigokuden), the towering Suzaku Gate, and the peaceful East Palace Garden. Beyond these landmarks, the grounds also feature open-air excavation sites, walking paths, and several museums. The Nara Palace Site Museum presents archaeological discoveries and interactive exhibits, while a VR theater digitally reimagines the palace’s original splendor. With its spacious layout and serene atmosphere, Heijo Palace offers a reflective journey into Japan’s early imperial history.