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A tranquil pond reflects a traditional Japanese pagoda, trees, and nearby buildings at dusk in Nara, Japan. Soft lights illuminate the peaceful scene, surrounded by greenery and autumn foliage.
A tranquil pond reflects a traditional Japanese pagoda, trees, and nearby buildings at dusk in Nara, Japan. Soft lights illuminate the peaceful scene, surrounded by greenery and autumn foliage.
A calm lake reflects trees, buildings, and a cloudy sky at sunset, with the sun partially visible through the trees near the water’s edge.
Red lanterns hang from bamboo over a calm pond, reflecting the lanterns, greenery, and a distant pagoda under a partly cloudy sky in a peaceful Japanese garden setting.
A calm pond reflects trees, buildings, and a five-story pagoda under a clear blue sky, with greenery and traditional architecture along the shoreline.
A peaceful pond reflects lush green trees and traditional Japanese buildings under a clear blue sky, creating a serene landscape.
Nara

Sarusawa Pond

4.3 (446)Scenic SpotPoint Of InterestEstablishment
Last updated May 17, 2026

Sarusawa Pond, located in the heart of Nara, is a picturesque spot that offers more than just its natural beauty. This historic pond is a piece of Nara’s ancient lore and provides a peaceful escape right near some of the city's most famous landmarks, including Kofuku-ji Temple and Nara National Museum.

Legend has it that the pond was the setting of a tragic love story from the 8th century, adding a layer of mystique to its tranquil waters. A court lady, who was loved by a high-ranking official, drowned herself in the pond when she could not return his feelings. This story has made Sarusawa Pond a poignant site for visitors who come to reflect on the tale of unrequited love while enjoying the scenic views.

The pond is especially stunning in the spring when the cherry blossoms around its perimeter are in full bloom and reflect beautifully on the water's surface. It's also a popular spot in the autumn when the colorful foliage creates a vibrant backdrop. With its combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural lore, Sarusawa Pond remains a must-visit location for anyone exploring the ancient city of Nara.

Hours:

6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Closed:

No closing days

Available:

All year

Minimum age:

All ages are welcome

Fees:

Free

Phone
+81 742-22-0375
Website
narashikanko.or.jp

The area

Address
14 Ganriincho, Nara, 630-8213, Japan

Phone

+81 742-22-0375

Website

narashikanko.or.jp

Top ways to experience Sarusawa Pond

Todai-ji Temple
8 hours
Full-Day Private Guided Tour to Nara Temples

What other travelers are saying about Sarusawa Pond

I stopped by the pond to rest my feet after walking around the shopping street. It was very calming and quiet to sit by the pond, you can see kofukuji temple from here. It's like a small park but with a big pond for you to enjoy while you're in the area.

Nearby attractions to see

A traditional Japanese temple with a red and white facade, ornate roof, and golden ornaments stands under a partly cloudy sky, surrounded by a courtyard and trees.

Kofuku-ji Temple

A round window framed by wooden latticework looks out onto a green garden with a leafy tree, set against traditional Japanese architecture in the background. Sunlight highlights the circular shape on the paper screen.

Naramachi (Nara Machiya District)

A serene pond reflects a wooden pavilion and arched bridge surrounded by lush green trees and blooming cherry blossoms under a partly cloudy blue sky.

Sagiike Pond

A traditional Japanese wooden temple is shown at night with a large fiery torch, sending sparks and smoke into the air during an annual festival or ritual. Lanterns illuminate the lower level of the building.

Omizutori (Shunie)

Nearby attractions to see

A traditional Japanese temple with a red and white facade, ornate roof, and golden ornaments stands under a partly cloudy sky, surrounded by a courtyard and trees.

Kofuku-ji Temple

A round window framed by wooden latticework looks out onto a green garden with a leafy tree, set against traditional Japanese architecture in the background. Sunlight highlights the circular shape on the paper screen.

Naramachi (Nara Machiya District)

A serene pond reflects a wooden pavilion and arched bridge surrounded by lush green trees and blooming cherry blossoms under a partly cloudy blue sky.

Sagiike Pond

A traditional Japanese wooden temple is shown at night with a large fiery torch, sending sparks and smoke into the air during an annual festival or ritual. Lanterns illuminate the lower level of the building.

Omizutori (Shunie)

More about Sarusawa Pond from our blog

Frequently Asked Questions

Sarusawa Pond is situated just south of Kofuku-ji Temple in central Nara. It is easily accessible on foot from Nara’s main attractions, including Nara Park and Todai-ji Temple.

Visitors to Sarusawa Pond can enjoy leisurely walks around the pond, photography, and seasonal views such as cherry blossoms in spring and colorful leaves in autumn. The pond also offers excellent views of the five-storied pagoda of Kofuku-ji Temple.

Sarusawa Pond is beautiful all year round, but it is particularly stunning during the cherry blossom season in early April and the autumn leaf season in late November when the colors around the pond are vibrant and reflective in the water.

Feeding wildlife, particularly any fish or birds at the pond, is generally discouraged to maintain the natural balance of the ecosystem and the health of the animals. Visitors are advised to enjoy the wildlife from a distance without interacting directly.
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Syaza
Dec 21, 2025
A peaceful and scenic spot in central Nara. Beautiful reflections of the five-storied pagoda on the water, especially at sunset. Great place for a quiet stroll and to see deer nearby. Free and easy to access—perfect for a short break between sightseeing.
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Andrew T
Jan 10, 2026
A pond with a circumference of 360 meters located in Nara Park. The sight of the five-storied pagoda of Kofukuji Temple reflected in the water along with the surrounding willow trees is so beautiful that it has become one of the eight scenic views of Nara. A beautiful pond with absolutely nice views around the surroundings for a good rest after a long walk in Nara Park. 💞
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Alan Lee
Feb 6, 2026
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!
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Carl Gustaf Hjelt Liebe
Sep 4, 2025
Very nice pond to relax in the evening with Nara strolling by. Highly recommended
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Jay S
Sep 14, 2025
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