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Journals
Posts Tag: Nara
Some of my awe-inspiring experiences as I wander about the unique & beautiful Earth.
Photowalk to Ukimido Pavilion
August 26, 2016
While on my evening walk today, I dropped in at Ukimido Pavilion. Umikido is a hexagonal gazebo over the Sagiike Pond in an aloof area of Nara Park. During summer evenings the floating pavilion is illuminated and it feels very relaxing sitting in the center of the pond surrounded by enchanting lights.
The majestic Heijo Palace
July 30, 2016
I used to go past the Heijo Palace every time we used to drop in at Osaka. It used to look so beautiful in the night from the train. We finally went to the palace grounds today, to capture its majestic view. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Heijo Palace used to be the emperor’s residence when Nara was the capital of Japan in the 8th century.
The moonlit Kofukuji Pagoda
July 18, 2016
I walked down to Kofukuji today in the evening to catch the huge Pagoda with the moon rising behind it. The five-story structure(Gojunoto) is the second tallest Pagoda in all of Japan. Built in 725 AD by the Empress Komyoh and last rebuilt in 1426, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage listed site.
Exploring the Horyu-ji Temple
June 26, 2016
Hōryū-ji is one of the seven great temples of Nara. We take a train to investigate the Pagoda at the grounds, said to be one of the oldest standing wooden structures in history. The tree used in the construction of the Pagoda dates back to 594 A.D. Can wood even survive that long!
The secret world of Kasugayama Primeval Forest
June 21, 2016
The Kasugayama Primeval Forest hides many interesting flora in its midst. I go for a hike around the forest to Manyou Botanical Garden discovering an array of colors among the dense prehistoric forest of Nara.
The Ajisai Garden of Hase-dera
June 18, 2016
We pay a visit to the ancient temple of Hasedera where the Ajisai is in full bloom in the monsoon season. The 1300 year old temple is also known as Ajisaidera or Hydrangea Temple, because of the hundreds of hydrangeas splashing the temple gardens in vibrant colors.
Lights of NaraRurie
February 11, 2016
We go for late night stroll along a path shining with a sea of blue lights. Nararurie referred to as Corridor of Happiness, is held in early spring in Nara. The Park is covered in a beautiful world of azure blue, ushering in happiness into everyone’s lives.
Ringing in the new year at Todaiji
January 1, 2016
We decided to do something different this new year eve. We walked down to Todaiji at midnight to usher in the new year with the blessings of the great Daibutsu. For it is only during New Year eve that the upper doors, in front of the face of the Great Buddha, are opened so all can witness the eyes of the Daibutsu.
Todai-ji : Home of Buddha
October 12, 2015
One cannot but feel tiny in front of Todaiji, home to the world’s largest bronze Buddha, housed in the colossal Daibutsuden Hall. Constructed in 752 AD as the head temple of all provincial Buddhist temples, it rose to become one of the most powerful temple in Japan, guarded by the fierce Sohei warrior monks.