Nara, once referred to as a "city where you cannot stay overnight," is now undergoing an unexpected change. Having long been a go-to destination for day-trippers who explored the historic sites before leaving for larger cities, Nara is now becoming more tourist-friendly, with new investments in hospitality and entertainment facilities. The development is set to transform the city's label, creating new opportunities for increased tourism and local economic growth.

Urban development and tourism are hot topics in Japan, with local communities and government bodies continuously searching for ways to encourage tourism and revitalize the local economy. Changes in Nara are seen positively as they not only boost the local economy but also increase Japan's overall attractiveness as a tourism destination.

In the US or EU, city transformation is usually geared towards enhancing living standards for residents, sometimes neglecting the importance of tourism. However, in Nara, Japan, the focus is balanced, investing in both resident living conditions and tourism infrastructure — highlighting the Japanese value of harmony.