Nara was the first permanent capital of Japan. Founded in 710, the city modeled on one of China's Silk Road town quickly became Japan's window on the world. At that time, Japan became intrigued with China and lost its interests in the closest neighbor, Korea. During 74 years of so-called Nara period, this was a glorious age for Japan. The world's finest religious monuments were raised at that time. This center of Buddhism and Shinto reached its height with the completion of the Great Buddha and colossal temple of Tadai-ji. Other temple and shrine like Kofuki-ji and Kasuga Taisha, where founded as protectors of the capital. The growing power of temples in Nara with a threat to imperial throne forced the decision to move the Japan's capital to other location. The town of Kyoto was founded.
