Wandering Around Nara
Nara really is a place where you can spend a whole day exploring the park...in fact probably several - there was lots I didn't see or go into!
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Deer Hostel
It's a nice little hostel and in a quiet location despite being so close to the main station, park, etc.
They even told me to cancel my booking.com reservation so they could give me a cheaper price!
Little annoyances:
- shower/bath and toilet in same room (potential for queuing!)
- the lights in the bedroom are movement sensitive, so can wake people if needing the bathroom in the night (as I invariably do)
12 May 2026 - 10:22
Sarusawa Pond
Kohfuku-ji Temple
Nara National Museum
Todai-ji Temple
They've gone big on their statues here!
Todai-ji Temple
Great Buddha Hall
Great Buddha Hall
Apparently it used one of the largest wooden buildings in the world! First built in the 700s, it burned down twice, in 1180 and 1567. The current building was built in the 1700s, and it's actually 2/3 as wide as the previous hall due to limited funds!
Great Buddha Hall
12 May 2026 - 12:17
12 May 2026 - 12:32
Mount Wakakusa
Even on my day off I get tempted by a high hill in the area...and today in the last appropriate footwear - I'm wearing my ancient zero-grip sandals as it's a warm, sunny day!
Mount Wakakusa
I thought I might have lunch up here, but then 3 or 4 coach loads of schoolgirls arrived and the tranquility evaporated! Also, the deer might have demanded some!
And then in the woodland on the way down there were too many annoying flies buzzing around 🫤
Kasuga Taisha Shrine
A shrine with many, many lanterns! A shame it's only open until 5pm - they should have an illuminated opening period in the evening too!
Kasuga Taisha Shrine
12 May 2026 - 16:08
12 May 2026 - 16:24
Imperial Palace
Imperial Palace
Evening Meal
Eyes bigger than tummy? Not sure! It wouldn't all fit in one bowl though!
Also, not quite sure what it is, but I think I put in too much miso paste...but at least it's all gone now - been carrying it for ages!