Hello again! I’ve been thinking about what the first-second post of this Blog should be. And after twists and turns I couldn’t not start with one of the trips that marked a before and after in my travel life.
As a teenager/young person, I had traveled a lot and I always liked it. But with that trip I discovered that it was more than just a pleasure. I realized that every time I visit a new place I enjoy to soak up in the culture as much as I can.
The point is, I’m getting off topic, that place I’m talking about is Japan.
This country was isolated from the world for a long time, but today it is a very popular destination for tourists.
It is clear that inside Japan you can visit many cities, and we couldn’t not cover all the places in just a single Post.
So we’ll start with Nara, and I’ll write only from my experience. Surely there will be other attractions that I have not visited, because I only had one day to visit it.
But, if I had to visit it again for the first time, this is what I would do:
1. Nara Park (free entry)
You can feed the deers by buying cookies at the different stands that are in the surroundings, although in my experience you have to be a little careful, if you get distracted they will leave you without cookies in a single bite.
Then you can continue walking through the entire park and make sure that you visit all the gardens and temples that are piled up. Such as the Isui-en gardens, the Wakamiya shrine, the ichi no torii and ni-no torii torii, etc. It’s a really nice walk.
2. Yoshiki-en Garden (Opening Hours 09:00-17:00; free entry )
There is a tea room, but reservations are required.
3. Isuien Garden (Opening Hours 09:30-16:30; Price 1,200 Y)
These two Gardens are next to each other. A good place to appreciate the peace and quiet.
4. Todai-ji Temple. Daibutsuden Hall ( Opening Hours Apr – Oct 07:30- 17:30 and from Nov – Mar 08:00-17:00; Price 800 Y)
This temple is famous for its statue of the Great Buddha and the great Nandai-mon gate. One of the pillars supporting the building has a hole that supposedly has the same dimensions as the Buddha’s nostrils. It is said that anyone who is able to pass through the hole will be blessed, so don’t be surprised if you see people on the ground trying to pass through it.
5. Kasuga Taisha (Opening Hours Museum 10:00-17:00 and Garden 9:00-16:30; Price 500 Y each)
Stroll along the paths of the sanctuary, which is famous for having many bronze and stone lanterns. Although it is only during the Obon Mantoro festival that they are lit.
6. Kofuku-ji (If you want to visit inside the hall there is a fee to pay of 700Y)
It is located at one end of the Nara park, and you can see the Buddhist temple, a five-storied pagoda. Which, as curiosity, was moved from Kyoto to Nara in the year 710.
7. Koshi-no-ie (Opening Hours 9:00-17:00; free entry)
Also called Lattice House, it is a reproduction of a traditional townhouse in Naramachi. You can visit the interior, and experience how the people of Nara used to live.
8. Naramachi
Visit or stroll around in this Old Nara neighborhood, while you can enjoy the traditional architectural style, and where you will find different restaurants and shops.
9. Toshodai-ji (Opening Hours 08:30-17:00; 1000 Y)
This Buddhist temple was declared a world heritage site by UNESCO.
As you can see, it is a very complete itinerary for a single day. But if you have more time you can surely take it slowly.
Definitely while writing this Post, I remember why I liked Japan so much and why I am sure I will come back.
If you are reading this Post, it is probably because you want to go. If so, I encourage you to do it, I am sure you won’t regret it and if it is because you have already decided and it is in your plans, I encourage you to enjoy it as much as possible.
Thank you very much for reading and I hope it has been helpful or at least entertaining to read.
Until next time!