Exploring the Historical Charm of Nara with Family

Last Day in Nara: A Perfect Farewell

As our time in Nara draws to a close, I wanted to soak up every last bit of this enchanting city. Today was all about venturing off the beaten path, exploring ancient forests, and savoring the local flavors that make Nara so special. It’s hard to believe our thirteen-day adventure is ending, but I’m determined to make these final hours count.

We started our day with a hearty breakfast at Kikuichimonjushirokanenaga honten. The aroma of freshly baked goods and the promise of a traditional Japanese breakfast was the perfect way to fuel up for our day of exploration. Aoife opted for the deer-shaped manjyu, 'KANOKO', which the shop is famous for, while I went for a more traditional set. Liam, of course, chose something completely different, eager to try everything at least once during this trip. I couldn't help but feel a little nostalgic, knowing this would be our last taste of Nara's morning cuisine for a while.


Discover authentic Japanese cuisine and exquisite souvenirs at Kikuichimonjushirokanenaga Honten in Nara.

Our first adventure was to Mt. Kasuga Primeval Forest, a place that has been untouched for thousands of years. As we walked, the air was thick with the scent of cedar and damp earth, a welcome change from the city. The forest has been protected since AD 841, and it’s easy to see why; the towering ancient trees and the vibrant green undergrowth create a serene, almost spiritual atmosphere.


Explore the serene landscapes and rich biodiversity of Mt. Kasuga Primeval Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Nara, Japan, perfect for nature enthusiasts.

The sunlight barely pierced through the canopy, casting dappled shadows on the moss-covered ground. Liam was particularly fascinated by the small caves carved with Buddha figures that we stumbled upon along one of the hiking courses. Aoife, ever the nature enthusiast, was in her element, identifying various trees and pointing out rare birds. I found myself reflecting on the history of this place, imagining the monks who once used this forest as a training ground. We only explored a small portion of the 11.5km course, but it was enough to feel a world away from the bustling city.

“Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found in the quietest places.”

After our refreshing forest hike, it was time to sample some local brews. Our first stop was the Nara Brewing Company. Tucked away in Kitanosho Nishimachu, this brewery is a testament to Nara’s growing craft beer scene. As an antiques dealer, I appreciate the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into creating something unique, and the folks at Nara Brewing certainly deliver. We sampled a few of their beers, including their classic Saison, INTEGRAL, which was a delightful mix of fruity aromas and a dry finish. Liam, always eager to try something new, opted for their collaboration brew with Yucho Shuzo, UNDERWATER, a sake-infused beer that was surprisingly refreshing.


Discover the craft of beer at Nara Brewing Company, where innovation meets tradition in the heart of Nara City, Japan.

The brewery itself had a cozy, welcoming vibe, and the staff were passionate about their craft. It’s inspiring to see local businesses thriving and adding their own unique flavor to Nara’s cultural landscape. I even picked up a couple of bottles to bring back to Dublin – a little taste of Nara to share with friends back home.

Next on our brewery tour was Imanishi Sake Brewery, a family-run operation with a history dating back to 1660. Located near Miwa Station, this brewery is the last of its kind in the area, and it’s a true gem. We took a tour of the brewery, learning about the traditional sake-making process and the unique ingredients they use, including local rice and Yoshino cedar. The staff were incredibly friendly, and some even spoke a bit of English, which was helpful. For a small fee, we enjoyed a tasting of their various sakes, each with its own distinct flavor profile. I was particularly impressed by their Mimuro Sugi Kio-ke Bodaimoto, brewed using ancient techniques and local ingredients.


Experience Japan's rich sake culture at Imanishi Sake Brewery, where tradition meets craftsmanship in the heart of Nara.

It’s fascinating to see how tradition and innovation blend together in sake brewing, a craft that has been refined over centuries. As someone who appreciates history, I found this experience particularly enriching. We left with a newfound appreciation for sake and a bottle of their finest brew.

For lunch, we decided to try Alice On Wednesday, a restaurant with a whimsical theme inspired by Alice in Wonderland. Aoife had read about it and was intrigued by the quirky decor and the promise of a unique dining experience. The restaurant did not disappoint. From the moment we stepped inside, we were transported to a world of fantasy, with whimsical decorations and playful details at every turn. The menu featured a range of dishes with creative names and presentations, all inspired by the classic story. Liam, of course, was in his element, ordering the most outlandish-sounding items on the menu. Aoife and I opted for more traditional fare, but even those dishes had a whimsical twist. It was a fun, lighthearted meal that perfectly captured the spirit of our trip.


Experience the enchanting fusion of fashion accessories and delectable desserts at Alice On Wednesday in Osaka's vibrant Nishishinsaibashi district.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we headed to Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten Branch Souvenir Nara Sanjo for some last-minute souvenir shopping. This charming store offers a variety of unique gifts and local crafts, perfect for bringing a piece of Nara back home. I was particularly drawn to the deer-themed items, from keychains to candies, all of which captured the essence of Nara. Aoife found some beautiful hand-woven textiles, while Liam picked out a few quirky trinkets for his friends.


Explore Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten in Nara for authentic souvenirs, unique handicrafts, and a taste of local Japanese culture.

As we wandered through the store, I couldn’t help but reflect on our time in Nara. This city has a way of captivating you with its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the ancient temples to the serene parks, every corner of Nara has a story to tell. And the people – so warm, welcoming, and proud of their heritage – have made this trip truly unforgettable.

Our final dinner was at Uma-no-me, a restaurant housed in a beautifully restored 1920s farmhouse. Located just north of Ara-ike pond in Nara Park, this restaurant offers a glimpse into pre-tech Japan, with pottery-lined walls and a tranquil atmosphere. We opted for the prix-fixe lunch, featuring seasonal vegetables, tofu, and fried fish, all prepared in the time-honored way. The intimacy of our private room, with views of the Nara Hotel and stunning hand-painted fusuma, added to the experience. It was the perfect way to end our culinary journey through Nara.


Experience authentic kaiseki dining at Uma-no-me in Nara – where each dish tells a story through exquisite flavors and stunning presentations.

As we savored our meal, we reminisced about our favorite moments from the trip. For me, it was the peacefulness of Isuien Garden, the majesty of Todai-ji Temple, and the simple joy of feeding the deer in Nara Park. For Aoife, it was the beauty of Kasuga Taisha Shrine and the serenity of the Mt. Kasuga Primeval Forest. And for Liam, it was the thrill of trying new foods and the excitement of exploring ancient sites. Nara has something for everyone, and we’ve all found something to cherish.

Tomorrow, we bid farewell to Nara and begin our journey back to Dublin. It’s always bittersweet to leave a place that has captured your heart, but I know we’ll carry the memories of Nara with us always.

As I sit here tonight, penning these final thoughts, I can’t help but feel grateful for this incredible experience. Nara has enriched our lives in so many ways, and I’m excited to share our adventures with you all. Until next time, happy travels!