This detailed Japanese listening lesson (#69) immerses learners in the historic city of Nara, one of Japan’s most culturally significant destinations. The host, Ayano—an experienced native teacher—guides viewers through a mix of sightseeing, cultural explanation, and practical Japanese conversation. While the lesson is conducted in simple Japanese, it covers both language learning strategies and real insights into local history and tradition.

Ayano highlights prominent places like Tōdaiji Temple (東大寺), famous for housing the colossal Great Buddha (大仏, Daibutsu). The lesson includes guided tours and discussions about Nara Park (奈良公園), renowned for its friendly and freely roaming deer, which are a symbol of the city’s harmony with nature. Listeners can enjoy descriptions and stories about these sites, learning not only vocabulary and authentic phrases but also absorbing Japanese customs and local perspectives.

The video features segments on walking through Nara’s ancient streets, sampling regional flavors and souvenirs, and connecting historical roots with modern cultural practices. Each topic is repeated across different listening-focused formats to build comprehension and speaking skills: with subtitles, natural speed, and even without furigana or text. Useful tips for shadowing and review help learners take full advantage of real Japanese usage as spoken in the region.

Nara is known as the “heart of Japan,” valued for its deep spiritual and historical context as Japan’s first permanent capital and as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The video encourages viewers to not only improve their Japanese listening abilities, but also to better understand what makes Nara unique in Japan’s cultural landscape.

For those interested in travel, language practice, or Japanese culture, this engaging listening lesson offers actionable speaking practice and an inviting introduction to Nara’s scenery, temples, and way of life.