Exploring the Historical Charm of Nara with Family

Stepping Back in Time in Nara

Today was a day of exploration, a journey through Nara's rich history and serene landscapes. With Aoife and Liam by my side, I set out to discover the hidden gems of this ancient city, blending historical sites with moments of natural beauty. We started our day with a hearty breakfast, ready to embrace whatever adventures lay ahead.

Our first stop was the delightful Cafe Wakakusa for breakfast. The reviews I had read mentioned its quirky charm, with walls covered in scribbles and drawings from previous customers. It sounded like just the sort of place Aoife would love. It was indeed a colorful and friendly spot. We enjoyed a mix of sweet and savory crepes, a nice change from the traditional Japanese breakfast we've been having. Liam, of course, opted for the most substantial crepe on the menu, while Aoife and I shared a set, enjoying the relaxed atmosphere and the friendly chatter around us.


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

Fueled up, we headed to Forest Park Konoyama, a prefectural nature park offering a variety of activities and attractions. The park promised stunning panoramic views from the summit of Mount Kono, and I was eager to stretch my legs with a good hike. Unfortunately, Mee-Mee Farm was closed as it was Wednesday. Nonetheless, the views from Konoyama were worth the trip. The park itself was lovely, and I can imagine it would be a riot of color in Spring. The air was fresh, and the panoramic views were breathtaking. We spent a good couple of hours wandering the trails, enjoying the peace and quiet away from the city bustle.


Explore Forest Park Konoyama, a serene nature preserve in Nara, Japan, offering breathtaking landscapes, hiking trails, and recreational activities for all ages.

The best journeys are those that allow you to lose yourself in the present while connecting with the past.

Next on our itinerary was the Heijō Palace Site Historical Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site was once the political heart of Japan during the Nara period. As an antiques dealer with a love for history, I was particularly excited about this stop. The site is vast, and several major structures have been reconstructed, including the Former Audience Hall (Daigokuden). Walking through the grounds, I tried to imagine what life must have been like here over 1300 years ago. The scale of the palace was impressive, and the reconstructed buildings gave a sense of the grandeur of the Nara period. Aoife, with her librarian's eye for detail, was fascinated by the museum, which displayed artifacts and explained the history of the site. Liam, ever the pragmatist, was more interested in the ongoing archaeological digs.


Discover the historical significance and serene beauty of Heijō Palace Site Historical Park, a cornerstone of Nara's cultural heritage.

Lunch was at Yokyoan Honten, a sushi restaurant known for its dedication to freshness and quality. We indulged in a selection of sushi and sashimi, each piece a work of art. The fish was incredibly fresh, and the chefs clearly took great pride in their craft. It was a delightful culinary experience, and a welcome break from the heat of the day.


Experience authentic sushi at Yokyoan Honten in Nara, where tradition meets freshness in every bite.

Our final stop was Hishiage Kofun, an ancient burial mound. This 219-meter-long keyhole-shaped tumulus is part of the Sakitatenami Tumulus Group, one of the largest in Japan. It's managed by the Imperial Household Agency as the tomb of Princess Iwa, wife of Emperor Nintoku. While we couldn't enter the mound itself, walking around its perimeter gave a sense of its scale and significance. It's humbling to stand in the presence of such ancient history, contemplating the lives and beliefs of those who came before us.


Experience the rich history of Hishiage Kofun, an ancient burial mound that offers a glimpse into Japan's fascinating Kofun period.

For dinner, we chose Azekura, the Japanese restaurant located in the JW Marriott Hotel Nara. Inspired by traditional Japanese architecture, the restaurant features a warm wooden interior and offers a variety of kaiseki cuisine, teppanyaki, and sushi. We opted for the kaiseki, a multi-course meal that showcased the best of Japanese cuisine. Each dish was beautifully presented and incredibly flavorful, a fitting end to a day of cultural exploration.


Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Azekura in Nara's JW Marriott Hotel—where tradition meets modern luxury.

After dinner, seeking a bit of local nightlife, Liam suggested we check out Woo Koo Bar?. This bar is known for its friendly atmosphere, English music, and affordable drinks. It was a great spot to unwind, chat with locals, and enjoy a few drinks. Aoife even tried her hand at darts, much to Liam's amusement. It was a fun and relaxed end to a busy day.


Discover Nara's nightlife at Woo Koo Bar, where vibrant cocktails and lively music create the perfect evening atmosphere.

As I sit here reflecting on the day, I'm struck by the sheer variety of experiences Nara has to offer. From serene parks to ancient palaces and tombs, this city is a treasure trove of history and culture. And tomorrow, we'll be exploring more of Nara's cultural heart, visiting Saho Seseragi no Sato, Naramachi Odori St, and Shiga Naoya's Old Residence. I'm looking forward to another day of discovery, uncovering more of Nara's hidden gems.

It is quite warm still in August, with average temperatures around 30°C (86°F). There is also a chance of rain. I should have remembered to pack my raincoat!. We'll be sure to check the weather forecast before heading out tomorrow.

Good night from Nara!