Nara

So as you've probably noticed, this blog has been blank for awhile. While I apologize about the delay, I felt it better to spend my time out enjoying Japan, with the intention of writing about my adventures later. This post, as such, is the first in a long line of stories and other adventures. 

For those of you who don't know, the city of Nara was the first permanent capital of Japan, from 710-794. It is the capital of the modern prefecture of Nara, located in the Kansai area (as shown below) of Japan. 

Due to its ancient origins, the city is famous primarily for its number of temples and shrines. In addition to this, the city is also well-known for its wild deer, which have become well adapted to living in the city parks and interacting with humans on a daily basis. 

I found the city to be incredibly beautiful, and wonderful to get around. Nara was one of a few places in Japan that I think you can really feel close to the older, traditional side of Japan. 

This feeling partially came simply from the history you could feel in the surrounding structures and places, but there was also an intangible feel that came from Nara. The city and its history seemed to surround you as you walked the streets, and it was truly a unique place to see. While the most popular things to do, like feeding the deer, and visiting Todaiji Temple, are more or less tourist traps, they are still great experiences. I would recommend Nara as one of the must see places in Japan.