Sakurai, Administrative city in Nara Prefecture, Japan
Sakurai is a city in Nara Prefecture situated in the Kansai region, spanning roughly 99 square kilometers with distinct neighborhoods and residential areas. The area is connected by several railway lines and national highways that link the city to surrounding regions.
The city served as an imperial capital during Emperor Yuryaku's rule from 457 to 479, with the court centered at Hatsuse no Asakura Palace. Multiple emperors subsequently constructed their palaces here, establishing the area as a significant imperial center in ancient times.
Omiwa Shrine ranks among Japan's oldest Shinto temples, drawing visitors who come to witness traditional religious practices in action. You can observe how sake merchants collect wooden sugi balls here, objects that hold deep meaning in local spiritual customs.
The West Japan Railway Company Sakurai Line and Kintetsu Railway Osaka Line connect the city to nearby areas, making day trips convenient and accessible. Additional national highways offer flexibility for exploring both by public transport and private transportation options.
Sakurai was home to multiple imperial palaces including Iware no Mikakuri, Nimiki, Iware no Tamaho, and Osata no Sakitama, making the region one of the densest concentrations of imperial construction. This clustering of ancient palaces in one area was extraordinary and reflects the city's strategic importance in early times.
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