Exploring the Historical Charm of Nara with Family

A Day of Discovery in Nara's Natural Beauty

Today was a day of exploration and immersion in the natural beauty that Nara has to offer. With Aoife and Liam by my side, we set out to discover some of the city's most enchanting landscapes, from the panoramic views atop Mount Wakakusa to the serene depths of the Manyo Botanical Gardens. It was a day that reminded me of the simple joys of travel – the wonder of new sights, the pleasure of shared experiences, and the quiet moments of reflection amidst nature's grandeur.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Manna Food. I opted for a traditional Japanese breakfast set, which was a delightful mix of savory and umami flavors – a perfect way to fuel up for a day of hiking and garden exploration. Aoife, ever the lover of all things sweet, chose the pancakes with matcha syrup, while Liam went for the classic eggs and toast. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, setting a positive tone for the adventures ahead.

First on our itinerary was Mount Wakakusa. The name 'Wakakusa' translates to 'young grass,' and the mountain certainly lived up to its name. As we ascended, the city of Nara unfolded beneath us, revealing a tapestry of temples, parks, and traditional houses. The climb was invigorating, and the panoramic views from the summit were simply breathtaking. I could see the outlines of Todai-ji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine in the distance, landmarks that have become familiar sights during our stay.


Discover the stunning beauty of Mount Wakakusa in Nara, Japan, where breathtaking views and serene nature await every visitor.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

I couldn't help but think about the antiques business back in Dublin as we hiked. In a way, climbing this mountain was like uncovering a hidden treasure, much like discovering a rare artifact in a dusty old shop. The satisfaction of reaching the summit, of seeing the world from a new perspective, was akin to the thrill of finding a piece of history that has been lost for centuries. It’s a feeling that resonates deeply with my passion for antiques, a constant reminder that there's always something new to discover if you're willing to look hard enough.

After descending Mount Wakakusa, we made our way to the Manyo Botanical Gardens. This garden is a treasure trove of plant species mentioned in the Manyoshu, Japan's oldest collection of poems. As a history enthusiast, I found this aspect of the garden particularly fascinating. Each plant was labeled with its name and the corresponding poem in which it appeared. It was like walking through the pages of a history book, with each plant telling a story of ancient times.


Experience the beauty of nature at Manyo Botanical Gardens in Nara, Japan, featuring diverse flora and serene landscapes perfect for relaxation.

Aoife, with her librarian's love for literature, was equally captivated by the garden. She read aloud some of the poems, her voice adding a touch of magic to the already enchanting atmosphere. Liam, ever the pragmatist, was more interested in the variety of plants and their uses. He peppered us with questions about traditional Japanese medicine and the role of plants in ancient rituals.

The Manyo Botanical Gardens also featured a Wisteria Garden, a Camellia Garden, and an Iris Garden. Though the wisteria and irises weren't in full bloom during our visit in late August, the Camellia Garden was a riot of color. The vibrant hues of the camellias against the lush green foliage created a visual spectacle that was truly mesmerizing.

For lunch, we headed to Kameya, a local restaurant known for its traditional Nara cuisine. I opted for the Miwa somen noodles, a local specialty made with thin wheat noodles in a light broth. Aoife chose the persimmon leaf sushi, another Nara delicacy, while Liam went for the tempura udon. The meal was a delightful culinary journey, a testament to the region's rich gastronomic heritage.


Experience authentic Okonomiyaki at Kameya in Nara – where traditional flavors meet modern hospitality.

Our final stop of the day was the Cherry Trees on the Saho River. While it wasn't cherry blossom season, the serene beauty of the river was undeniable. The Saho River is known for its rows of cherry trees that stretch for kilometers along its banks. I could only imagine the breathtaking sight of the cherry blossoms in full bloom, painting the landscape in shades of pink.


Discover the breathtaking Cherry Trees along the Saho River in Nara, a serene destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.

I learned that the cherry trees along the Saho River were planted in the late Edo period by Kawaji Toshiakira, the Nara City Magistrate. His intention was to create a beautiful sight for the old capital of Nara, and he certainly succeeded. Even without the cherry blossoms, the Saho River exuded a sense of tranquility and history, a testament to Nara's enduring charm.

As evening approached, we decided to treat ourselves to a nightcap at LAMP BAR. This bar is renowned for its world-class cocktails and its unique atmosphere. The bartender, Michito Kaneko, is a master mixologist, and his creations are nothing short of works of art. I ordered a classic Old Fashioned, while Aoife opted for a gin-based cocktail with local Nara ingredients. Liam, ever the beer enthusiast, chose a Japanese craft beer.


Discover the vibrant nightlife at LAMP BAR in Nara, where personalized cocktails and a cozy atmosphere create unforgettable experiences for tourists.

The LAMP BAR's concept, “around the world,” is expressed through three unique spaces. The “Main Room,” represents the origins of cocktails; the “Traveling Room,” is inspired by trunks used for transporting alcohol; and the “Mirror Room,” reflects the history of alcohol. The bar has consistently ranked on the “Asia's 50 Best Bars” list, which is a testament to the high-level skills of the bartenders.

Sitting there, sipping my Old Fashioned, I felt a sense of contentment wash over me. Today had been a perfect blend of exploration, relaxation, and cultural immersion. We had climbed mountains, wandered through gardens, savored local delicacies, and indulged in world-class cocktails. It was a day that encapsulated the essence of travel, the joy of discovering new places and creating lasting memories with loved ones.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Todai-ji Hokkedo (Sangatsudo, March Hall), Todai-ji Nigatsu-do, and Todaiji Nandaimon (Great South Gate). I'm particularly excited to see Todaiji Nandaimon (Great South Gate), with its impressive architecture and rich history. I am also looking forward to some shopping at Vierra Nara.

As I reflect on our adventures today, I am reminded of a quote by John Muir:

In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.

Indeed, Nara has given us far more than we sought. It has opened our eyes to the beauty of simplicity, the richness of history, and the joy of shared experiences. As we prepare for our final days in this enchanting city, I am filled with gratitude for the memories we have made and the adventures that lie ahead.

Yamatoan Honten was our choice for dinner. I enjoyed the Yamato beef hot pot, which was a delicious and comforting end to a day filled with exploration. Aoife had the Kakinoha sushi, and Liam went for the tempura. The restaurant had a cozy, traditional atmosphere, making it the perfect place to unwind after a busy day. The service was excellent, and the staff were very attentive, making us feel right at home.


Experience authentic Japanese dining at Yamatoan Honten in Nara - home to exquisite kaiseki meals and fresh local seafood.

Back at the Nara Royal Hotel, I spent some time organizing my photos and jotting down notes for this blog. It's important to me to capture these moments, not just for my readers, but also for myself. These travel experiences are more than just vacations; they're opportunities to learn, grow, and connect with the world in a meaningful way. As an antiques dealer, I appreciate the value of preserving history, and in a way, this blog is my attempt to preserve the history of our travels, to share our stories with others and inspire them to embark on their own adventures.


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.