The story
Welcome to the edge of Sarusawa Pond, one of the most iconic and peaceful vistas in all of Nara. As you stand here, let the rhythmic sound of the water and the rustle of the weeping willows set the pace for our journey. This man-made pond was excavated over thirteen hundred years ago, in the year 749, as part of the Kofuku-ji Temple complex.
Today, it serves as a gateway between the bustling town and the sacred, deer-filled expanse of Nara Park. If you look toward the north, your eyes will naturally be drawn upward to the magnificent Five-Story Pagoda of Kofuku-ji Temple. At fifty meters tall, it is the second tallest wooden pagoda in Japan.
On a clear, still day, the pond creates a perfect mirror image of this architectural masterpiece. This scene—the pagoda reflected in the water framed by willow branches—is celebrated as one of the Eight Views of Nara. It is a sight that has inspired poets and painters for centuries, capturing the essence of the city’s timeless spiritual heritage.
Take a look at the stone banks and the small wooden platforms scattered throughout the water. You will likely see dozens of turtles sunning themselves. These turtles are a beloved local fixture, symbolizing longevity and peace.
They share these waters with vibrant koi fish that glide just beneath the surface. But Sarusawa Pond holds more than just scenic beauty; it is the setting of a poignant and ancient legend. If you look toward the northwestern corner of the pond, you might spot a small, unassuming Shinto shrine called Uneme-jinja.
This shrine is dedicated to a beautiful lady-in-waiting, or Uneme, from the Nara Period. According to the tale, she was a favorite of the Emperor, but when his affections eventually cooled, she was overcome with grief and drowned herself in these very waters. Legend says the shrine was originally built facing the pond, but the spirit of the lady was so heartbroken that the shrine building actually turned itself around overnight to avoid looking at the place of her sorrow.
Even today, the shrine faces away from the water. Every autumn, on the night of the full moon, locals hold the Uneme Festival, floating colorful dragon boats on the pond to console her spirit. As you continue your walk around the perimeter, notice how the light changes.
In the evening, the lanterns surrounding the pond flicker to life, casting a warm, golden glow that dances on the ripples. Whether you are watching the cherry blossoms dip toward the water in spring or the fiery maples of autumn, Sarusawa Pond remains a place of reflection in every sense of the word. Take a moment now to breathe in the history, enjoy the cool breeze off the water, and prepare yourself for the wonders that await as you head further into the sacred grounds of Nara.