Nara - We bow to the deer

On Saturday we visited a (compared to Kyoto) small city, Nara, which is becoming more and more popular with tourists (not least because of the tame deer and impressive temple complexes living there). Legend has it that the god Tekemikazuchi came to Nara on a white deer to protect the city. Since then, the animals have been considered sacred there.

After a very entertaining train ride from Kyoto (duration approx. 45 minutes) we arrived in Nara and first visited the Tourism Visitor Center. After obtaining various information, we even tried to fold an origami deer (which more or less succeeded).

In Nara, as everywhere in Japan, there are a variety of temples, pagodas and shrine complexes. Not least because Nara was Japan's capital between 710 and 784 before the seat moved to Kyoto.

However, the most important and famous shrine in Nara is the Kasuga-Taisha, which is known for its 3,000 lanterns. The path to the temple is lined with hundreds of toros (stone lanterns) and leads through a mystical forest landscape. The partially moss-covered lanterns, the wildlife hiding between them and the restful silence create a unique atmosphere. Another visitor magnet is the Buddhist Todai-ji temple. This temple is one of the largest wooden structures in the world and houses a huge Buddha statue (15m high!). The temple was already very impressive simply because of its dimensions.

In any case, it was another wonderful day with many new impressions and experiences.