Thomas and I spent a long weekend in Kyoto, but I felt like I hadn’t seen everything yet. That’s why I spontaneously decided to stay a little longer in this beautiful region. On Monday we said goodbye at the immense Kyoto station, and I continued my journey to Nara.
Kyoto is centrally located between Osaka and Nara, and after seeing promising information on the Internet about Nara, I decided to spend a night here. It’s been a while since I’ve traveled alone, so it’s taking me some time to get used to the idea of being on my own for the next few days. Within an hour I arrive at Nara station and I’m still struck by how efficient public transport is here in Japan. Since I cannot yet check in at the Japanese guesthouse where I have booked a room, I immediately go exploring.
Deers in Nara
A peaceful town in the heart of Japan, Nara is known for its friendly deer. I could have imagined in advance that this could be a popular tourist destination. As I walk towards the park, I pass the city’s shopping street. At first glance, Nara may seem small and quiet, but the pleasant shopping street shows me that this is actually not so bad. It is actually two long streets filled with atmospheric restaurants and local shops.
Upon arrival at the Nara Deer Park I immediately see my first deer, quietly grazing near one of the temples. As I continue walking, I quickly become surrounded by a mix of deer and people. At various places along the street you can buy “deer biscuits” to feed to the animals. It is even said that some deer will make a Japanese bow in exchange for a cookie. I take the time to take a break on a bench, surrounded by this lively spectacle. Tourists take selfies with deer, children run after the animals, and others even feed the deer ice cream. However, as an animal lover, I am a bit overwhelmed by this and realize that Nara may not have been the ideal choice for me.
Japansese Guesthouse
By the way, the weather is still very good. There is not a cloud in sight and the temperature is pleasant. I decide to walk further into the park and luckily it becomes a little less touristy here and the peace and quiet returns. In the afternoon sun I walk around Nara for a while before settling down in my Japanese guesthouse Nara Komachi.
It is a simple guest house within walking distance of the station and Nara Deer Park. Of course I have to take off my shoes at reception and for 20 euros I can sleep in a room with a bunk bed and private bathroom. The only downside I have is that the rooms were quite noisy. I drink a glass of wine and eat some sushi while I write this blog in peace.
The next day I get up early and take a walk through the beautiful morning light of Nara. While enjoying a cup of coffee with “Rudolf The Red Nose Reindeer” in the background at the local Starbucks, I keep seeing deer walking past the window. I quietly and peacefully observe the deer, this time without the crowds of tourists around me.
Today I return to Kyoto. While on the train back to historic Kyoto, I read that Uji village is a must-visit if you are near Kyoto. Fortunately, my train also stops in this picturesque town. I get out and explore the village, home of the famous Japanese Matcha tea. Uji is beautifully hidden in a valley between the mountains and the autumn colors are still clearly visible here. I take a relaxing walk along the Uji River, cross over the iconic red bridge and enjoy a delicious Matcha croissant at Matcha Roastery before returning to Kyoto.
Would you like to read more about my experience in Kyoto? Then read more here.
