Nara

The thing about being in Osaka is that it is central to many places. Kyoto for example is only 30 minutes by the local trains. There are several different types of trains or stations in Osaka so you need to make sure that you get on the correct one. There is the subway, the Honshin, the Hankyu, and the JR. The concierge at the Hilton are very helpful and they provided me with train maps and a list of places to go. Kim and I were having drinks in the lounge and met a couple from Santa Fe, New Mexico. They were wrapping up the end of their vacation in Osaka. Since Kim was working during the day, I decided to ask them if they wanted to go to Nara with me.
Nara is a part of Kansai and west of Osaka (about 1 hour by train). It is known for 2 things. The first being temples and shrines. The most popular one is Todai-ji Temple (shown above). It costs 500 yen to enter the temple. However, Todai-ji is the largest wooden structure in the world and houses a large Buddha figure or Daibutsu (shown below). The figure stands nearly 15 meters tall (approximately 50 feet) and weighs 550 tons. I have seen many temples already and was not enthusiastic to pay to see this one but I have to admit that it was worth it. I was in awe when I arrived at Todai-ji. This structure is amazing. To put its size in perspective, look at how small the people in the picture are compared to the building itself.

Secondly, Nara is know for it's infestation of deer. Yes, like Bambi! They are all over the place and will come up to you and eat straight from your hand. At first it seems pretty cool but where ever you go, watch your step cause there is deer crap all over the place. It is recommended that you do not touch the deer as well. They are cute and friendly but are really dirty.

All in all, Nara was an enjoyable experience. There is so much to see so you can spend an entire day their but be prepared to do a lot of walking.

Directions: From Osaka Station, take JR Yamatoji Line. It takes 47 minutes and will cost you 780 yen one way. When you arrive in Nara, I suggest you take a taxi and to Todai-ji Temple (1000 yen) and begin your day their.