After Osaka, we transferred to Nara Prefecture on November 27, 2014. So, with our luggage and backpacks we headed to the nearest train station early in the morning so we can have a whole day tour of Nara. Nara, unlike Osaka, is a smaller prefecture in Japan. Upon arrival, we deposited our things to People’s Inn Hanakomichi Hotel which is just a few meters from the train station. The hotel will give you an experience of a traditional Japanese home interior. Nara is so homey, and to the Philippines, it was like our Vigan. Here are some of our photos in the hotel. J
Nara is a prefecture where you can see deer walking in the park (with you) and crossing the streets so my first rule is NEVER hold any food while walking. But don’t worry, they are harmless and their horns are already cut. They will simply approach you trying to ask for some food. Here’s my close encounter with one of them... Oh deer, I am sorry I don’t have some food with me. J
We went to Todai-iji temple that was once one of the powerful Seven Great Temples according to Wikipedia. It houses the world’s largest statue of Buddha. There is a pillar inside the temple with a small hole at the bottom. This is said to be the size of the Buddha’s nostrils. And there is a legend that says that passing through the hole will give you a good fortune. My friends even said that only clever people can pass through the hole. Oh well, I don’t believe in fortune and I don’t have to prove that I am clever so I never tried passing through the hole (Actually, I was just so lazy removing my trench coat so I never tried it. But Con and Jess passed through the hole).
One of the best things I will always remember about this place is the wonderful colors of Autumn. No words can ever describe the feelings I had when I saw the trees and the falling leaves. It felt like we do not want to leave the place but of course, we do not have the luxury of time. So we instead captured every detail of the wonder in front of us and try to pick up some leaves that we can bring home as souvenirs.
In the afternoon, we just walked around the area as we enjoy the traditional Japanese houses. We also tried their local liquor – the sake. There are so many flavours but I am not really a drinker and I do not have the tongue to taste the goodness of every flavour.
The following day, before leaving for Kyoto, we had our last minute walk to see the reflection of the pagoda on the lake. It was like a painting... too good to be true. I can sit down the whole day by the lake looking at this wonderful sight, trying to relax and unwind. If only I can...