Exploring the Historical Charm of Nara with Family

Nara's Warm Embrace

After a long journey from Dublin, arriving in Nara felt like stepping into a different world. The blend of ancient history and natural beauty was immediately apparent, promising a memorable start to our family trip. I was particularly excited to share this experience with Aoife and Liam, hoping they'd find the same sense of wonder I felt as we embarked on our Nara adventure.

Our first day in Nara was nothing short of magical. After a hearty breakfast at Cafe Wakakusa, a delightful spot just a short walk from Kintetsu Nara Station, we set out to explore the famed Nara Park.


Experience the taste of Nara at Cafe Wakakusa - where great coffee meets delicious vegetarian cuisine in a cozy setting.

The cafe, run by a friendly couple, Hiro and Sumie, was filled with scribbles and drawings from previous travelers, giving it a playful and welcoming vibe. I opted for a savory crepe, while Aoife enjoyed a classic sweet version. Liam, ever the adventurous one, tried a matcha latte. It was the perfect way to fuel up for our day of exploration. The couple were very helpful in providing sightseeing recommendations, which was a lovely bonus.

Stepping into Nara Park felt like entering a living postcard. Deer roamed freely, their gentle eyes and soft antlers creating an atmosphere of serene coexistence. It was a far cry from the bustling streets of Dublin, and a welcome change of pace. Liam was immediately taken with the deer, and Aoife, ever the animal lover, couldn't stop taking pictures. I must admit, even I, a man who appreciates a good antique map more than most things, was charmed by these creatures. We bought some *shika senbei* (deer crackers) and enjoyed the experience of feeding them, though we quickly learned to be wary of the more assertive ones!

In Nara, the past isn't just history; it's a living, breathing part of the present.

Our next stop was Todai-ji Daibutsuden, the Great Buddha Hall, a place I had read about extensively but was still unprepared for its sheer scale.


Discover the awe-inspiring Todai-ji Daibutsuden in Nara, Japan, home to the Great Buddha and a testament to ancient Buddhist architecture.

The sheer size of the wooden structure was awe-inspiring, a testament to the craftsmanship of generations past. Inside, the Daibutsu, a massive bronze Buddha statue, radiated a sense of peace and tranquility. The intricate details and the sheer size of the statue were breathtaking, a true marvel of engineering and artistry. Liam was fascinated by the story of its creation, while Aoife was moved by the serene atmosphere. I found myself contemplating the centuries of history contained within those walls, the countless prayers and hopes that had been offered in this sacred space.

Afterward, we took a leisurely stroll through the grounds, admiring the other structures and soaking in the atmosphere. We learned that on only a few occasions each year, the front window of the Great Buddha Hall is opened, allowing visitors outside to view the face of the Great Buddha. Unfortunately, today wasn't one of those days, but it gives us a reason to return!

Next on our list was the Nara National Museum, a treasure trove of Buddhist art and artifacts.


Discover Japan's cultural legacy at Nara National Museum, home to stunning art and artifacts that highlight the history of Nara and beyond.

As an antiques dealer, I have a deep appreciation for historical objects, and the museum did not disappoint. The exhibits showcased a stunning array of sculptures, paintings, and calligraphy, each piece telling a story of faith, artistry, and cultural exchange. Aoife, with her librarian's eye for detail, was particularly interested in the ancient texts and manuscripts, while Liam was drawn to the intricate sculptures. I was captivated by the craftsmanship and the stories behind each artifact. The museum is currently hosting a special exhibition, Voyage Around the World: Heritage of Beauty and Wonder, which added an extra layer of excitement to our visit.

As the afternoon waned, we ventured into Nara Higashimuki Shopping Street.


Discover the charm of Nara Higashimuki Shopping Street, a vibrant destination blending traditional culture with modern shopping and dining experiences.

This bustling arcade offered a vibrant mix of souvenir shops, restaurants, and local businesses. It was a great place to pick up some gifts for friends and family back home, and to get a sense of the local culture. Liam was on the hunt for unique Japanese snacks, while Aoife searched for traditional crafts. I found myself drawn to the antique shops, of course, hoping to unearth a hidden gem. While I didn't find anything to add to my collection, the experience of browsing the shops and interacting with the local vendors was rewarding in itself.

For lunch, we stopped at Edogawa - Naramachi, a restaurant known for its *unagi* (eel) dishes.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Edogawa - Naramachi in Nara, specializing in unagi and traditional dishes amidst charming surroundings.

The restaurant is nestled in a 150-year-old merchant's house, adding to its charm. The traditional Japanese ambiance, complete with tatami mats and a tranquil garden view, created a serene dining experience. The *unagi* was delicious, perfectly grilled and glazed with a sweet and savory sauce. Aoife, who is not usually a fan of eel, was pleasantly surprised by the delicate flavor and tender texture. Liam, ever the adventurous eater, declared it one of the best meals he had ever had. I particularly enjoyed the unique experience of trying different ways of tasting *unagi*.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Wa Yamamura for dinner, Nara's only restaurant with three Michelin stars.


Discover the art of Kaiseki dining at Wa Yamamura in Nara—an exquisite blend of tradition and seasonal flavors awaits you.

The restaurant is known for its traditional *kaiseki* cuisine, a multi-course Japanese meal that showcases the chef's artistry and culinary skills. Chef Nobuhiro Yamamura's dedication to traditional *kaiseki* style was evident in every dish. The presentation was exquisite, each course a work of art, and the flavors were subtle and complex. It was a truly memorable dining experience, a fitting end to our first day in Nara. The courses are surprisingly affordable for such fine cuisine.

Reflecting on the day, I was struck by the seamless blend of history and modernity in Nara. The ancient temples and serene parks coexisted harmoniously with the bustling shopping streets and modern restaurants. It was a city that appealed to all the senses, a place where one could find both tranquility and excitement. As we headed back to the Nara Royal Hotel, I felt a sense of contentment and anticipation for the days ahead.


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.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Kasuga Taisha, Isuien Garden and Neiraku Museum, and Kofuku-ji [sic]. I'm also looking forward to trying some local sake at Nara, Bar.d, if time allows. For breakfast, we're planning to try Naramachi Hiyori, and Vegan Cafe Ramuna for lunch. Dinner will be at Tonkatsu Ganko Nara. It promises to be another day filled with exploration and discovery, and I can't wait to share it with Aoife and Liam.

The Nara Tokae Lantern Festival is also taking place from August 5th to August 14th, but unfortunately, we missed it. However, the Obon festival is also in August, so we might be able to catch some of the festivities.