Japan - Nara
During my time in Osaka, I took a day trip to Nara — and it turned out to be one of the most peaceful and memorable parts of my journey in Japan.
Just under an hour away by train, Nara feels like stepping into a quieter, more ancient world. As soon as I arrived, I was greeted by the gentle presence of the sacred deer that roam freely through Nara Park. They bow, they beg, and they seem to carry the spirit of the city in their calm gaze.
Wandering through the park and temple grounds during autumn, I was surrounded by golden leaves and a soft, nostalgic light that made every photo feel like a postcard. Spring brought an equally enchanting vibe — soft cherry blossoms lining the paths to centuries-old temples.
Visiting Todai-ji Temple and standing before the Great Buddha was a humbling experience. The scale, the silence, the scent of incense — it all lingers in memory. The nearby Kasuga Taisha Shrine, with its thousands of stone lanterns, felt like a hidden world carved out of time.
Nara is slower, more reflective, and full of quiet beauty. It’s the perfect contrast to Osaka’s energy — a gentle escape just a short ride away. Every visit leaves me feeling a little more connected to Japan’s soul.
