In the southern part of Nara Park, you’ll come across a small artificial pond known as Sarusawa Pond. The reflection of the 5-story pagoda from Kofuku-ji Temple in the pond makes this place one of the iconic landscapes representing Nara.
“Uname Shrine – A Small Shrine near Sarusawa Pond”
Located near Sarusawa Pond, to the northwest, you’ll find a small shrine. Situated right next to Starbucks, this shrine has a connection with Sarusawa Pond. It was built to honor the spirit of Uname, a court lady who, during the Nara period, lamented the loss of the king’s favor and jumped into the pond.
This shrine has a unique feature where the main hall (Shaden) is constructed to block the view of the pond. Every year on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, a procession from JR Nara Station to the shrine takes place, featuring a carriage pulled by Kasuga Taisha shrine maidens carrying large flower fans. At night, lanterns are lit around the pond, and two decorated boats sail to commemorate the pitiful spirit of Uname.
“Visit to Uname Shrine during Daytime”
During this trip, I visited Uname Shrine during the daytime. After spending some time at the nearby Starbucks, I decided to make a brief stop. However, perhaps due to the daytime hours, the shrine was undergoing construction. I could see several workers engaged in activities within the shrine.
Moreover, near the pond in front of the shrine, people were checking boats. I speculated that they might be inspecting the boats for the night procession around the pond.
Though there wasn’t much to see during the daytime visit, I think it would be worthwhile to revisit Nara and experience the charm of Sarusawa Pond in the evening.
“Nara Sarusawa Pond, Uname Shrine”
- Address: 15 Taruicho, Nara, 630-8218, Japan
- Phone: +81742227788
- Website: Kasuga Taisha Shrine
- Operating Hours: 6:30 – 17:30