平城京 (Heijō-kyō) was the capital of Japan during the Nara period, from 710 to 794 AD. Located in present-day Nara, it was designed based on the Chinese capital Chang'an, featuring a grid layout and large public spaces. The city served as a political, cultural, and economic center, reflecting the influence of Buddhism and Chinese culture. The city was home to important structures, including the Todai-ji temple, which housed a giant bronze Buddha statue. 平城京 was abandoned when the capital moved to Kyoto, but its historical significance remains, and it is now a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracting visitors interested in Japan's ancient history.