Sarusawa Pond
A tranquil oasis in Nara, Sarusawa Pond offers picturesque reflections and a peaceful escape with iconic pagoda views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Magical light for photos
Sarusawa Pond
Best Time
Magical light for photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil oasis in Nara, Sarusawa Pond offers picturesque reflections and a peaceful escape with iconic pagoda views.
"A peaceful retreat with stunning views, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the beauty of Nara.
"serene spot
Enjoy a peaceful break from Nara Park crowds. Perfect for quiet reflection and bird watching.
Grab a local drink
Sip on coffee or craft beer from nearby shops while enjoying the view.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sarusawa Pond Reflections
The pond itself
Capture stunning reflections of the surrounding nature and the iconic pagoda in the calm waters. A truly picturesque scene.

Ukimido Pavilion
On the pond
This charming pavilion offers a unique vantage point for enjoying the pond's beauty and is a popular spot for quiet contemplation.

Deer Encounters (Fewer Crowds)
Around the pond's edge
Spot deer roaming peacefully near the pond, often with fewer people than in the main park. A delightful, more intimate wildlife experience.
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Planning Your Visit
Tranquil Escape Near Nara Park
Best Views and Local Flavors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Popping the Question.
serene spot
Enjoy a peaceful break from Nara Park crowds. Perfect for quiet reflection and bird watching.
Grab a local drink
Sip on coffee or craft beer from nearby shops while enjoying the view.
Nara bday dinner recs ?
Pagoda views
Don't miss the iconic pagoda view, especially stunning during sunset.
Deer spotting
See deer in a more relaxed setting than the main park.
Tips
from all over the internet
serene spot
Enjoy a peaceful break from Nara Park crowds. Perfect for quiet reflection and bird watching.
Grab a local drink
Sip on coffee or craft beer from nearby shops while enjoying the view.
Pagoda views
Don't miss the iconic pagoda view, especially stunning during sunset.
Deer spotting
See deer in a more relaxed setting than the main park.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sarusawa Pond is praised as a peaceful and beautiful retreat, offering stunning reflections and a tranquil atmosphere just a short walk from Nara Park. Visitors appreciate the opportunity to relax, enjoy local drinks, and spot deer in a less crowded setting. Some find it a perfect spot for quiet contemplation or a romantic interlude.
"Nothing beats a relaxing me-time at the Sarusawa Pond, not too far away from the hustle & bustle of the vibrant food stalls and souvenir shops. Enjoy the silence with a treat from the coffee shop on the other side or a cold one from the Yamato craft beer table shop's fridge!"
Carl Gustaf Hjelt Liebe
"If you’re visiting Nara Park, don’t miss a stop at Sarusawa Ike Pond! Just a short walk from the park, this tranquil pond offers a peaceful retreat with stunning views of the surrounding nature and the iconic pagoda. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the beauty of Nara."
J. Lepianda
"Don’t forget to visit this beautiful lake when going to Nara park. 👍"
Billy Antonio
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sarusawa Pond is conveniently located just a short walk from the main area of Nara Park. Simply follow the signs or head east from Todai-ji Temple, and you'll reach the pond in about 5-10 minutes. It's an easy and pleasant stroll.
Yes, Sarusawa Pond is easily accessible. The nearest major station is Kintetsu Nara Station, which is about a 15-minute walk away. JR Nara Station is a bit further, around a 20-25 minute walk, but still manageable.
While there isn't direct parking at the pond itself, there are several paid parking lots available in the vicinity of Nara Park and the city center. It's generally recommended to use public transport or walk if you're already exploring Nara Park.
Walking is the best way to explore Sarusawa Pond and its surroundings. The area is compact and pedestrian-friendly, allowing you to fully appreciate the scenery and nearby shops and cafes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Sarusawa Pond is a public area and does not require an entrance ticket. You can visit and enjoy the scenery freely at any time.
Sarusawa Pond is accessible 24/7 as it's an outdoor public space. However, the surrounding shops and cafes will have their own operating hours.
The Ukimido pavilion itself is generally accessible without a separate fee, though specific rental options might exist for private use. It's part of the public pond area.
While not a primary event venue, Sarusawa Pond can be a picturesque backdrop for small gatherings or cultural events. Check local Nara tourism information for any scheduled activities.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo spots are along the pond's edge, capturing the reflections of the Ukimido pavilion and the five-story pagoda. Golden hour offers particularly beautiful light.
Yes, you can take photos of the deer, but please maintain a respectful distance and avoid feeding them. They are wild animals.
Drone usage is generally restricted in public parks and around cultural sites in Japan to ensure safety and preserve the atmosphere. It's best to assume it's not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography, enhancing the reflections and colors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several options! You can find coffee shops and a Yamato craft beer table shop right by the pond, offering a relaxing spot to enjoy a drink.
The area offers a mix of casual dining, including cafes for coffee and snacks, and places selling local treats. It's close to the vibrant food stalls of Nara Park as well.
While there aren't designated picnic areas, you can enjoy snacks or drinks purchased from nearby vendors while sitting by the pond. Please be mindful of litter.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring along some snacks or grab a drink from the nearby vendors to enjoy a peaceful break by the water. It’s a great spot for a short rest before or after exploring the more active parts of Nara Park, allowing everyone to recharge amidst beautiful scenery.
🚶 Solo Travelers
It's also a fantastic location for photography enthusiasts. The reflections, the pagoda, and the Ukimido pavilion provide ample opportunities for capturing beautiful shots. Grab a coffee or a local beer and enjoy some 'me-time' by the water.
❤️ Couples
Consider visiting the Ukimido pavilion for a particularly charming spot. The peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal place for conversation and connection, offering a serene escape from the usual tourist hustle.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Serenity of Sarusawa Pond
One of the most striking features of Sarusawa Pond is its picturesque setting. The Ukimido pavilion, a charming wooden structure, sits on the water, and the five-story pagoda of Kofuku-ji Temple is visible in the background, creating a classic Japanese landscape. The reflections of these landmarks on the pond's surface are particularly captivating, especially during the soft light of dawn or dusk. It's a place that invites quiet contemplation and appreciation for natural beauty.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Sarusawa Pond is also a habitat for various bird species, adding to its peaceful ambiance. Visitors often find it to be a perfect spot for a moment of respite, perhaps with a coffee or a local craft beer from one of the nearby establishments. It’s a reminder that even in popular tourist destinations, pockets of calm can be found.
Sarusawa Pond: A Romantic Setting
Travelers have noted Sarusawa Pond as a potential spot for romantic occasions. The Ukimido pavilion, in particular, provides a picturesque spot for quiet conversation or a shared moment of reflection. The proximity to Nara Park also means you can combine a visit here with other activities, making for a well-rounded and memorable day out.
While not overtly commercialized for romance, the inherent beauty and tranquility of Sarusawa Pond make it a naturally appealing location for couples. It’s the kind of place where you can simply be present with each other, surrounded by natural and historical beauty, creating a lasting impression.
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