Family Adventure in Historic Kyoto

Nara's Enchanting Embrace

Today, we ventured beyond Kyoto's familiar embrace, seeking new adventures in the ancient capital of Nara. It was a day brimming with history, playful wildlife encounters, and delectable culinary experiences, a tapestry woven with threads of tradition and modern delights. It was a journey that reminded me why I love exploring Japan with my family, each moment a shared discovery, each smile a treasured memory.



The train ride from Kyoto to Nara was smooth and comfortable, a scenic prelude to the day's adventures. Mateo, ever the curious explorer, pressed his face against the window, pointing out the passing landscapes with unbridled enthusiasm. Lena and I exchanged knowing smiles, already anticipating the wonders that awaited us in Nara.

Our first stop was, of course, Nara Park, famed for its free-roaming deer. As we stepped into the park, we were immediately greeted by these gentle creatures, their inquisitive eyes sparkling with anticipation. Mateo was ecstatic, his laughter echoing through the crisp winter air as he cautiously approached a deer, offering it a shika senbei (deer cracker). I remember reading somewhere that these crackers are made of rice bran, ensuring they're safe for the deer to eat. I even learned a little trick: holding the cracker overhead encourages the deer to bow politely before taking the treat!


Explore Nara Park, where tranquil nature meets Japan's rich cultural heritage amidst free-roaming deer and historic landmarks.

Lena, ever the compassionate soul, reminded Mateo to be gentle and respectful, explaining that these deer, while accustomed to human interaction, are still wild animals. We spent a delightful hour wandering through the park, feeding the deer, taking photos, and simply enjoying their playful presence against the backdrop of ancient temples and serene landscapes. The winter air was crisp, adding a touch of magic to the scene. I made sure to keep an eye on Mateo, remembering a cautionary tale I read about deer sometimes getting a bit too eager for crackers and mistaking maps or pamphlets for food!

The best journeys in life are those that allow us to connect with nature, history, and each other.

Next on our itinerary was Todai-ji Temple, home to a colossal bronze Buddha statue. As we approached the temple's imposing Nandaimon Gate, I was struck by its sheer scale and grandeur. The intricate wooden carvings and towering pillars were a testament to the craftsmanship of a bygone era. Stepping inside the Daibutsuden Hall, we were greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of the Great Buddha, its serene expression radiating peace and tranquility. Mateo, wide-eyed with wonder, whispered, Papa, he's so big!


Discover Todai-ji, the majestic Buddhist temple in Nara, Japan, home to the Great Buddha and a symbol of Japan's rich cultural heritage.

The sheer size of the Buddha is something to behold; it truly dwarfs you, making you feel incredibly small in comparison. It's a humbling experience, a reminder of the vastness of the universe and the impermanence of our own existence. I took a moment to light a stick of incense, offering a silent prayer for peace and well-being for my family and the world.

After soaking in the spiritual atmosphere of Todai-ji, we made our way to Kasuga Taisha, Nara's most celebrated shrine. The approach to the shrine was a magical experience in itself, a winding path lined with thousands of stone lanterns, each donated by worshippers over the centuries. The lanterns, covered in moss and lichen, exuded an aura of ancient mystique, their soft glow illuminating the path ahead.


Explore the enchanting Kasuga Taisha shrine in Nara, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage surrounded by nature.

Lena was particularly captivated by the lanterns, pointing out the intricate carvings and the subtle variations in their designs. I learned that these lanterns are only lit twice a year, during special festivals in February and August, creating a truly mesmerizing spectacle. I imagined the flickering flames dancing in the darkness, casting long shadows and illuminating the faces of pilgrims from all walks of life.

For breakfast, we had a delightful experience at Khaos Spice Diner. It's a little gem tucked away, offering a unique blend of Indian spices and Japanese flavors. I opted for their signature curry, a fragrant concoction that warmed me from the inside out. Lena enjoyed a milder chicken curry, while Mateo devoured a plate of cheesy naan bread with surprising gusto. The restaurant itself had a relaxed and welcoming vibe, with reggae music playing softly in the background and film posters adorning the walls.


Discover authentic Japanese curry at Khaos Spice Diner in Kyoto – a flavorful experience awaits you!

For lunch, we decided to try something different and headed to Goichi Pizza. I know, pizza in Japan might sound a bit unconventional, but I had read some rave reviews about this place, and I was curious to see what it had to offer. We were not disappointed! The pizza was cooked in a stone oven, giving it a perfectly crispy crust and a wonderfully chewy texture. The toppings were fresh and flavorful, a delightful fusion of Italian and Japanese ingredients. Mateo, a self-proclaimed pizza connoisseur, declared it the best pizza ever!


Discover the delicious fusion of Italian tradition and local flavors at Goichi Pizza in Kyoto - an unmissable dining experience!

Dinner was a truly special experience at Katsukura Tonkatsu Sanjo Main Store. This restaurant is renowned for its tonkatsu, a Japanese dish of deep-fried pork cutlet. The tonkatsu at Katsukura was simply divine, the pork tender and juicy, the breading light and crispy. We were given a small mortar and pestle and encouraged to grind our own sesame seeds to sprinkle over the tonkatsu, adding another layer of flavor and aroma. The restaurant itself was elegant and refined, with attentive service and a warm, inviting ambiance.


Savor the best tonkatsu in Kyoto at Katsukura Tonkatsu Sanjo Main Store—where tradition meets flavor.

To cap off our day, Lena and I decided to sneak away for a quick drink at Kyoto Star Bar. I had heard about their expertly crafted cocktails and their unique blend of traditional Japanese hospitality and modern mixology. The bar was dimly lit and intimate, with a sophisticated atmosphere that immediately put us at ease. I ordered a classic Negroni, while Lena opted for a whisky sour. The cocktails were expertly prepared, each ingredient perfectly balanced, each sip a symphony of flavors. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.


Discover the perfect blend of cocktails and coffee at Kyoto Star Bar, a stylish retreat in the heart of Kyoto's vibrant nightlife.

As we rode the train back to Kyoto, I reflected on the day's experiences, the playful deer, the majestic temples, the delectable cuisine. It was a day that had nourished our bodies and souls, a day that had brought us closer together as a family. I am so glad we decided to visit Nara. I did miss the chance to visit the Nara Craft Museum, but perhaps that can be for another trip!

Tomorrow marks the last day of our Kyoto adventure, and we're planning a day trip to Osaka. We'll be visiting Osaka Castle, exploring the Umeda Sky Building, and indulging in the vibrant street food scene of Dotonbori. I'm already excited to see what new adventures await us in this bustling metropolis. I can only hope it will be as memorable as our day in Nara.

Before I close, I wanted to make a note of something I learned today. Nara is known for several traditional crafts, including Nara brushes, Nara ink, and Nara lacquerware. I didn't get a chance to explore these crafts in depth, but I hope to do so on a future visit. It's fascinating to think about the centuries of tradition and skill that go into creating these beautiful objects.

Also, I learned that Nara Park sometimes has winter illuminations! It looks like the Shiawase Corridor Nara Rurie event features illuminations that connect Kasuga Taisha, Kofuku-ji, and Todai-ji with lapis lazuli-colored lights. I'll have to keep that in mind for future winter travels.