Sarusawa Pond, Historic pond in Nara Park, Japan.
Sarusawa Pond is an artificial body of water in Nara Park with a perimeter of about 360 meters, lined with willow trees. The water holds koi year-round and creates reflections of the surrounding temple buildings.
The pond was created in 749 during Japan's Nara period and stands among the oldest features of the park. It has remained central to the landscape for more than a thousand years, defining the character of the area.
The pond serves as a gathering place for seasonal celebrations that reflect traditional customs still observed today. Visitors can watch how local families use the space, walking along the water's edge and pausing to observe the wildlife.
The pond is easily reachable on foot from Kintetsu Nara Station and sits within the main park area. Good walking shoes are recommended since paths around the water are paved, and different viewpoints offer different perspectives of the water's reflections.
The water's surface mirrors the five-story pagoda of the neighboring temple and forms part of Nara's Eight Views. These reflections are sharpest during calm weather, making certain spots along the shore popular for photographs.
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