Rain was forecasted for 1400h, so we had to get as much outdoor stuff done asap.
Our destination was Nara, another former capital. During the height of Buddhism in Japan, it was the seat of power. The city is renowned for its temples and the bowing deers.
Within the Nara national park, you walk among the temples, woods and Sika deer. For 200¥ you can buy a stack of crackers to feed them. They bow to you and you bow back and give them the treat.
However if you don’t give them a treat or you are crowded by them, they’ll give you a nip. Pete and Ellina experienced that, however all I had, was them licking my arm.
We then passed through the largest temple gate in Japan, Nandiamon. Two 8 metre wooden sculptures of gods flank each side, said to ward off evil spirits.
We then toured the Isui-en gardens. An estate for tea ceremonies. Traditional Japanese tea houses looked out onto the picturesque gardens.
At this point it started to rain, we headed back to Nara centre for lunch then made our way back to Kyoto.
Back in the city we went up the Kyoto tower, just a little disappointed it was raining as it clouded the views.
We had a mooch around Nishiki market having some dinner and drinks. It wasn’t a late one, back at the hotel for 2030h. It’s an early start tomorrow to get the bullet train back to Tokyo to catch our flight back to Blighty.
A great day to end this amazing trip. The deers were the best!
Stu's Camino 