Reconstitution Vacation: Nara

The final stop on our whirlwind Japanese tour was the city of Nara. We heard it is like a smaller, less crowded version of Kyoto with a high concentration of beautiful temples. In retrospect, it would have been great if we were not so tired and had not already seen a plethora of historical sites. Below is a smattering of photos from around the city.

Small 3 story pagoda in Kofukuji Temple

5 story wooden pagoda at Kofukuji - originally built in 730, most recently rebuilt in 1426.

There were tons of deer in Nara. They were a little too desensitized to people...

beautiful fall colors

Old concrete lanterns leading to the Kasuga Grand Shine on the mountain

There were deer all around

Todaiji Buddhist Temple - biggest one I've ever been in. Seriously - it was like an asian cathedral

inside was a giant buddha

Beware of the aggressive deer!! This man was trying to feed them

The final sight we toured was my favorite - the stunning Isuien Japanese Garden

so tranquil

Before we took the train back to Osaka and packed our bags for home, we ate dinner at one of our favorite restaurants: Coco Curry! It was a welcome change from ramen. The perfect, savory end to a fantastic vacation!