Ukimi-do Pavilion

Ukimidō is a pavilion with a cypress-bark roof built in an octagonal style, appearing to float on Sagi Pond in Nara Park. It was originally built in 1916, repaired in 1966, and rebuilt in 1994. While it is not an ancient historic structure, it is a popular spot thanks to its beautiful appearance reflected on the water. It is also a place where you can feel the seasons—cherry blossoms in spring, the Tokae lantern event in summer, and autumn foliage. On the north shore of the pond, many cherry trees cluster together, and the area becomes lively with hanami parties during cherry blossom season. During Tokae, the crowd is often so large that one-way pedestrian controls may be implemented. Depending on the season, there may be periods of nighttime illumination and times when you can enjoy rental boats, making it a spot that offers different kinds of enjoyment throughout the year. From JR Nara Station or Kintetsu Nara Station, take a Nara Kotsu bus and get off at "Kasuga Taisha Omotesandō," then walk about 5 minutes. It is also about a 20-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station.