Exploring the Historical Charm of Nara with Family

A Day of Discovery in Nara

Today was a day of gentle exploration, the kind where you stumble upon unexpected beauty and quiet corners of history. Setting aside the grand temples for a moment, Aoife and I, along with Liam, ventured into the more subtle charms of Nara. It’s amazing how much a shift in perspective can reveal, trading the bustling tourist trails for serene ponds and hushed museum halls.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Izasa-Nakatani-hompo Yumekaze-hiroba. I opted for the Kaki-no-ha-sushi, a regional specialty wrapped in persimmon leaves. It was a unique experience, though I must admit, I still prefer traditional sushi. Liam, ever the adventurous one, tried the steamed sushi. Aoife enjoyed the tempura set, although she found the vegetables a tad greasy. The restaurant itself was lovely, with a pleasant atmosphere. I even managed to snag a window seat that offered a rather impressive view of the Great Buddha Hall of Nara. It was a delightful start to the day, setting a relaxed tone for what was to come.


Discover Izasa-Nakatani-hompo Yumekaze-hiroba in Nara for an unforgettable sushi experience blending tradition with modern flavors.

After breakfast, we headed to the Kasuga Taisha Kokuhoden (Museum). As an antiques dealer, I always appreciate a good museum, and this one didn't disappoint. The museum isn't very big, but it contains a collection of beautiful artifacts, including lacquer boxes, rare swords, and samurai armor. I was particularly taken by the intricate details of the makie lacquer boxes inlaid with gold. Aoife, with her librarian’s eye for detail, was fascinated by the historical context provided for each artifact. Liam, surprisingly, was intrigued by the samurai armor, snapping photos and peppering me with questions about their construction and use. It was a reminder that even for a young man more interested in modern pursuits, history still holds a certain allure.


Immerse yourself in the ancient history and cultural richness of Japan at Kasuga Taisha Kokuhoden Museum in Nara.

Leaving the museum, we strolled towards Sarusawa-ike Pond. The pond is an artificial one that was dug in 749 as part of the grounds of Kofukuji Temple. The pond was lovely and tranquil, with the five-story pagoda of Kofukuji Temple reflected in the water. It’s said that the reflection of the pagoda is one of the “Eight Views of Nara”. I found a bench and watched the turtles sunning themselves on the rocks. Aoife, ever the romantic, shared the legend of the court maid who drowned herself in the lake after falling out of favor with the emperor. It’s a poignant tale, adding another layer to the pond’s serene beauty. Liam, meanwhile, was busy taking photos of the pagoda's reflection, trying to capture the perfect shot.


Experience the serene beauty and cultural significance of Sarusawa-ike Pond in Nara, Japan, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.

Sometimes, the most profound travel experiences are found not in the grand monuments, but in the quiet corners where history whispers and nature soothes.

For lunch, we decided to try Kokkyo Shokudo, a restaurant known for its generous portions. I ordered the Katsudon, which was indeed enormous. The katsu was crispy and flavorful, and the rice was perfectly cooked. Aoife had the garlic chive and bean sprout set meal, which she thoroughly enjoyed. Liam, predictably, went for the largest portion of ramen they had, and finished every last drop. The restaurant had a cozy, local feel, and the staff were friendly and welcoming. It was a satisfying and hearty meal, perfect for refueling after a morning of exploration.


Discover Kokkyo Shokudo in Nara – where authentic Japanese cuisine meets warm hospitality in a charming setting.

In the afternoon, we ventured to Sagi Pond. This pond is a bit more secluded and peaceful than Sarusawa-ike Pond. As we approached Sagi-ike, we quickly noticed that this peaceful spot is very different from other surrounding attractions. The pond felt like an isolated and magical reprieve, despite being right next to the busy area. There’s a lovely hexagonal wooden pavilion, called Ukimi-do, in the middle of the pond that seems to float on the water. We walked out to the pavilion and took in the panoramic views of the surrounding park. The pond is a popular spot for couples, and I could see why. It was peaceful and romantic, a perfect place for a quiet moment with my wife. Liam, ever the pragmatist, simply appreciated the lack of crowds. It’s funny how different generations find different things to appreciate in the same place.


Experience the serene beauty of Sagi Pond in Nara, a scenic spot perfect for relaxation, nature walks, and stunning photography opportunities.

As evening approached, we decided to treat ourselves to a pre-dinner drink at Savant, a speakeasy-style bar. Finding the entrance was a bit of a challenge, as there’s no sign. But after a bit of searching, we found the small light above the door and slipped inside. The bar is located in a traditional Japanese home, with a warm, wood-filled interior. The owner/bartender was incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, crafting personalized cocktails based on our preferences. There’s no menu, which added to the sense of adventure. I opted for a classic whisky cocktail, while Aoife tried a craft gin concoction. Liam, surprisingly, went for a Japanese beer. The atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming, and we ended up chatting with the bartender for quite some time. It was a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.


Experience Nara's vibrant nightlife at Savant, where exquisite drinks meet a cozy atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

For dinner, we chose Tori Tamura, a yakitori restaurant near JR Nara Station. The restaurant had a Japanese-modern decor, creating a pleasant ambiance. We ordered a variety of yakitori skewers, all made with fresh chicken. The skewers were large and delicious, perfectly grilled and seasoned. Aoife enjoyed the grilled vegetables, while Liam devoured the deep-fried chicken. I particularly enjoyed the charcoal-grilled skewers, which had a smoky and savory flavor. The restaurant also offered a selection of sake and wines, which paired perfectly with the yakitori. It was a satisfying and delicious end to a wonderful day.


Experience authentic Japanese izakaya dining at Tori Tamura in Nara, famous for its exquisite yakitori and warm hospitality.

As we walked back to the Nara Royal Hotel, I reflected on the day’s experiences. It wasn’t about ticking off the major sights, but rather about immersing ourselves in the smaller, more intimate aspects of Nara. From the tranquil ponds to the hidden bars, we discovered a different side of this ancient city. It’s a reminder that travel isn’t just about seeing the famous landmarks, but also about finding those hidden gems that resonate with you on a personal level. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Garden of the Former Daijyo-in Temple, Yoshikien Garden, and Byakugoji Temple, hoping to uncover more of Nara's serene beauty. I think I'll make sure to pack the raincoat this time, just in case I forget again like I did with the adapter. I might even pick up a new one at Ezuya. I am looking forward to what tomorrow brings.


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.