2010 will mark the 1300th anniversary of the construction of Heijo Palace and Nara becoming the capital of ancient Japan. With the help of the celebrations mascots Sento-kun and Manto-kun, festivities will be held through out the year in Nara city and surrounding areas.
Nara’s history
Ancient Japan had several main capitals as the country worked to unite. Nara became the capital of Japan in 710, starting the short but important Nara Period of Japanese history. This period, which only lasted from 710 to 794, marked a significant time for Japan as Buddhist and Chinese philosophy started to flourish.
The Nara capital palace, Heijo, was modeled after the Chinese capital of the Tang Dynasty. It remained in use until 784, when it was briefly transferred north before finally settling in Kyoto in 794 and marking the beginning of the Heian Period of Japanese history.
Since that time Nara has remained a religious and cultural focal point for Japan. The archeological remains of Heijo Palace are now part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara World Heritage site.
Nara’s 2010 celebration
In preparation for the 1300th anniversary of Nara becoming the capital of Japan, restoration projects of parts of the Heijo Palace have been underway. The current main project, restoration of the majestic Former Imperial Audience Hall, is schedule to be complete in early 2010.
Other events are schedule to be held throughout the year, including history exhibits, massive candle light-ups, and cultural activity demonstrations.
The city hopes to promote Japanese culture worldwide by thinking about and reflecting on the past, present, and future of the area.
The 2010 celebration mascot and symbol
The main Mascot for the 2010 celebration is Sento-kun. Sento-kun is a young energetic boy who likes to talk with people. His clothes and general appearance reflect Buddhism. His antlers are representative of Nara’s famous deer population.
Another mascot, Manto-kun, has also appeared. Manto-kun is a deer wearing a hat that is in the shape of Heijo Palace. Manto-kun is being used to sell a variety of commemorative products, including a Manto-kun music CD.
The celebration also has the Welcome Hand as a symbol. It is designed to reflect the international exchange and spread of Buddhism in Japan during the Nara Period.
(The 1300th Anniversary of Nara Heijo-kyo Capital English promotional video)
(Sento-kun and Manto-kun Dancing)
Check out more articles about Kyoto and the Kansai area by the Japan Travel Examiner
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