Sarusawa Pond - Beautiful green and flower garden、新緑と美しい花が織りなす絶景 A superb view of fresh greenery and beautiful flowers
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Sarusawa Pond

4.4
·348 reviews·Nara, Japan

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Golden hour

Magical light for photos

CrowdMedium
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Sarusawa Pond - Beautiful green and flower garden、新緑と美しい花が織りなす絶景 A superb view of fresh greenery and beautiful flowers

Sarusawa Pond

Best Time

Golden hour

Magical light for photos

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.4
(348 reviews)

"A peaceful retreat with stunning views, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the beauty of Nara. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sarusawa Pond Reflections

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.

Reddit
Ukimido Pavilion

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.

Reddit
Deer Encounters (Fewer Crowds)

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.

Reddit
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Tranquil Escape Near Nara Park

Sarusawa Pond offers a peaceful retreat just a short walk from Nara Park's main attractions. It's a great spot for quiet reflection away from the crowds, perfect for a relaxing break during your Nara exploration. Reddit

Best Views and Local Flavors

Enjoy serene views of the pond and pagoda, especially beautiful during golden hour. Grab a coffee or a local craft beer to enhance your relaxing experience by the water. Reddit

Best Times

When
Golden hour
Why
Magical light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful and quiet
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Popping the Question.

serene spot

Enjoy a peaceful break from Nara Park crowds. Perfect for quiet reflection and bird watching. Reddit

Grab a local drink

Sip on coffee or craft beer from nearby shops while enjoying the view. Reddit

reddit.com

Nara bday dinner recs ?

Pagoda views

Don't miss the iconic pagoda view, especially stunning during sunset. Reddit

Deer spotting

See deer in a more relaxed setting than the main park. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

serene spot

Enjoy a peaceful break from Nara Park crowds. Perfect for quiet reflection and bird watching. Reddit

Grab a local drink

Sip on coffee or craft beer from nearby shops while enjoying the view. Reddit

Pagoda views

Don't miss the iconic pagoda view, especially stunning during sunset. Reddit

Deer spotting

See deer in a more relaxed setting than the main park. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(348 reviews)

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. Reddit

"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

Peaceful atmosphere
Beautiful reflections
Proximity to Nara Park

What People Dislike

Can get busy

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Reddit

Yes, you can take photos of the deer, but please maintain a respectful distance and avoid feeding them. They are wild animals. Reddit

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. Reddit

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography, enhancing the reflections and colors. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Sarusawa Pond is a wonderful, low-key addition to a family's Nara itinerary. It offers a calmer environment than the main Nara Park, making it easier for parents to keep an eye on younger children. The chance to see deer in a less crowded setting can be a highlight for kids, providing a more relaxed wildlife viewing experience. Reddit

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. Reddit

🚶 Solo Travelers

For solo travelers, Sarusawa Pond is an ideal spot for quiet contemplation and enjoying personal time. It offers a peaceful escape where you can relax, read a book, or simply soak in the serene atmosphere without the pressure of group activities. Reddit

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. Reddit

❤️ Couples

Sarusawa Pond provides a wonderfully romantic and tranquil setting for couples. The picturesque views, especially during golden hour, create a magical ambiance. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll hand-in-hand or a quiet moment of shared appreciation for the beauty around you. Reddit

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. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Serenity of Sarusawa Pond

Sarusawa Pond, or Sarusawa Ike, is a historic pond located just east of Nara Park. Its name, meaning 'Woven Mat Pond,' is said to come from the way the water's surface resembles woven mats when disturbed. The pond is a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike, offering a tranquil contrast to the more bustling areas of Nara.

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Sarusawa Pond: A Romantic Setting

For those seeking a romantic atmosphere, Sarusawa Pond offers a uniquely serene and beautiful backdrop. The gentle lapping of water, the soft glow of lanterns (if visiting in the evening), and the iconic pagoda create an undeniably charming setting. It's a place where couples can enjoy a quiet walk, share a moment of peace, and appreciate the picturesque scenery together.

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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