Exploring the Historical Charm of Nara with Family

Echoes of Emperors and Artists

Today in Nara was a deep dive into the heart of Japanese history and art. From the grandeur of ancient palaces to the delicate beauty of local crafts, every moment was a lesson in the rich cultural heritage of this remarkable city. Aoife and Liam joined me, and we set out with a spring in our step, eager to uncover the treasures that Nara held.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Silk Road Dining, located right in the Nara Royal Hotel. It's always a treat when you don't have to venture far for a good meal. After fuelling up, we set off for the Heijo Palace Site Museum.


Experience the comfort of Nara Royal Hotel, your perfect base for exploring the historic city of Nara, with easy access to local attractions and amenities.

Stepping Back in Time at Heijo Palace

The Heijo Palace Site Museum was our first stop, and what a start it was! Stepping onto the grounds felt like stepping back in time. The sheer scale of the place is impressive, and it's easy to imagine the emperors and courtiers who once walked these paths. The Daigokuden Hall, with its vermillion beams and white walls, was particularly striking against the clear August sky. Liam was fascinated by the reconstructed buildings, while Aoife and I enjoyed wandering through the gardens, soaking in the atmosphere.

The museum itself offered a detailed look into the Nara period, with exhibits showcasing excavated artifacts and replicas of palace life. It was fascinating to learn about the intricate details of court ceremonies and the daily routines of the people who lived and worked here. The staff were incredibly helpful, providing explanations in English and answering all our questions with a smile. It’s clear that they are passionate about preserving and sharing their history. We even got to collect stamps at different spots, which Aoife particularly enjoyed – a lovely little memento of our visit.

History is not just a collection of dates and names; it's a living narrative that shapes who we are.

As an antiques dealer, I'm always drawn to the tangible remnants of the past. Seeing the tools, pottery, and other everyday objects from the Nara period brought the history books to life. It's one thing to read about emperors and battles, but it's another to see the objects they used, the clothes they wore, and the art they created. It gives you a real sense of connection to the people who came before us. The museum also had a model of a sailing/trading vessel, which I found particularly interesting given Nara's history as a hub for cultural exchange.

Artistic Explorations at Nara City Museum of Art

After immersing ourselves in ancient history, we headed to the Nara City Museum of Art. The museum is conveniently located and offered a refreshing change of pace after the vastness of the Heijo Palace site. While the August heat was still noticeable, the air-conditioned galleries provided a welcome respite.


Discover the exquisite artistry of Japan at the Nara City Museum of Art, showcasing a diverse collection from traditional to contemporary works.

The exhibits were diverse, showcasing both local and international artists. I was particularly drawn to the works by Nara-born artists, which offered a unique perspective on the region's culture and landscape. Aoife, with her librarian's eye, appreciated the curatorial choices and the way the exhibits were arranged. Liam, ever the curious one, was intrigued by a modern art installation that sparked a lively discussion about the nature of art itself. One of the exhibits currently showing is Living on the Silk Road —Carpets, Tea and Architecture, which was fascinating considering Nara's history as a Silk Road terminus.

The museum is not overly large, which made it perfect for a relaxed afternoon visit. We spent a couple of hours wandering through the galleries, taking our time to appreciate each piece. It's these moments of quiet contemplation that I find most rewarding when traveling. Art has a way of transcending language and culture, allowing us to connect with others on a deeper level.

Discovering Local Crafts at the Nara Craft Museum

Our final museum stop of the day was the Nara Craft Museum, nestled in the heart of Naramachi. This charming museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting the traditional crafts of Nara, and it was a delightful experience from start to finish.


Explore the artistry of Japan at the Nara Craft Museum, a captivating destination showcasing traditional handicrafts and local artisans.

The exhibits showcased a wide range of crafts, from calligraphy brushes and ink to pottery, textiles, and lacquerware. Each piece was a testament to the skill and artistry of the local artisans, who have been honing their craft for generations. As someone who appreciates fine craftsmanship, I was in my element. The attention to detail and the dedication to traditional techniques were truly inspiring. Aoife was particularly interested in the exhibits on Nara sarashi, a traditional hemp cloth used for monks' robes and soldiers' armor. Liam, meanwhile, was fascinated by the intricate process of making Nara lacquerware.

One of the highlights of the museum was seeing the tools and materials used in the production of these crafts. It gave us a deeper understanding of the process and a greater appreciation for the skill involved. The museum also hosts demonstrations by local artisans, which would have been wonderful to see, but unfortunately, there wasn't one scheduled for today. Nevertheless, we thoroughly enjoyed exploring the exhibits and learning about the rich craft heritage of Nara.

A Stroll Down Nara Sanjo-dori Shopping Street

After a day of museums, we decided to take a leisurely stroll down Nara Sanjo-dori Shopping Street. This bustling street is the main shopping area in Nara, and it's a great place to soak up the local atmosphere and find souvenirs. The street stretches about 500 meters from JR Nara Station towards Nara Park, making it easily accessible. It's lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes, offering something for everyone.


Explore Nara Sanjo-dori Shopping Street for a unique blend of traditional crafts, local delicacies, and vibrant culture in the heart of Japan.

We browsed the various shops, admiring the local crafts and delicacies. There were plenty of souvenir shops selling deer-themed merchandise, which Liam found amusing. Aoife picked up some Narazuke, a local pickle fermented with sake, while I couldn't resist buying a beautifully crafted calligraphy brush. We also stopped by a mochi shop and watched the traditional mochi-pounding ceremony, which was quite a spectacle.

Sanjo-dori is more than just a shopping street; it's a place where you can experience the heart of Nara. The friendly locals, the delicious food, and the vibrant atmosphere all contribute to its charm. It's a must-visit for anyone coming to Nara.

Culinary Delights: Lunch and Dinner in Nara

For lunch, we stopped at RAhOTSU, a charming little restaurant that served delicious local cuisine. We enjoyed a variety of dishes, including kaki-no-hazushi (sushi pressed in persimmon leaves) and some flavorful noodle dishes. It was the perfect way to refuel after a morning of museum hopping.


Discover authentic Thai flavors at RAhOTSU in Nara - a culinary gem offering exquisite dishes in a vibrant atmosphere.

In the evening, we had dinner at Restaurant Naraya Todaiji, which offered a stunning view of the Todaiji Temple. The food was excellent, and the ambiance was magical. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring Nara's cultural treasures.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Restaurant Naraya Todaiji near Todaiji Temple; savor delicious meals and find unique souvenirs.

As we walked back to the hotel, I couldn't help but reflect on the incredible day we had. Nara is a city that truly captivates the senses. Its rich history, stunning art, and vibrant culture make it a destination like no other. I'm so grateful that I had the opportunity to experience it with my family.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore Mount Wakakusa, the Manyo Botanical Gardens, and the Cherry Trees on the Saho River. I'm particularly looking forward to Mount Wakakusa, as I've heard the views from the top are breathtaking. We might even pop into the LAMP BAR for a nightcap. Until then, sayonara!