Sarusawa-ike is an artificial pond dug in 749 in the grounds of Kofukuji Temple.  Legend has it that during the Nara Period a court maid drowned herself in the lake after she fell out of favour following a love affair with an emperor. Uneme Shrine, a sub-shrine of Kasuga Grand Shrine, is said to have been built to pray for her soul (Uneme were court attendants). The shrine’s torii is turned away from the lake to avoid the soul of the dead girl having to gaze on its waters.  To be more contemporary, Nara Park — where this is — “is said to be the most charming Park in Japan”.  We are in no position to dispute that.  Unused, old, attractive postcard.  Grade: 1