Nara was the capital before Kyoto -- from 710-794, and offers the largest wooden building in the world -- containing a giant bronze Buddah. It also is home to about 1000 sacred deer that are all over hoping for a handout of deer crackers (purchased for 150 yen). The sellers of the deer crackers seem to have reached a truce with the deer such that the deer do not go directly to the source, but look for a handout from a customer.
There are also hundreds of stone lanterns that stand taller than humans -- leading the way to the 8th century shrine. This was rebuild every 20 years until the late 1800's. We hiked up there in the fading light of the end of the day.
We went to Nara this past weekend to escape the crowds of leaf peepers creating neighborhood gridlock in Kyoto. Our first stop was the Isui-en garden. Every inch was exquisite! The view backs onto the hills, making the garden appear very large. I was particularly taken by the very small tea house (2-tatami mat). I took enough pictures to think carefully about building one in Arlington....
The gardens take constant care:
Brushing with bamboo
Reveals deep moss and buds for spring
Underneath the leaves
We were still there for dinner, and found a restaurant where we were tucked into a tiny private booth for 2 with cushioned banquettes and a door closing us in. The food came in courses -- grilled rice balls, sashimi, fried tofu in light broth, and some pork thing for Will.
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