Nara: Japan's First Permanent Capital

A visit to Japan wouldn't be complete without going to Nara, Japan's first permanent capital which was established in 710. Over the years, the Buddhist monasteries acquired a vast amount of political influence-- so much that the government grew wary and moved the capital to Nagaoka. Because of this, Nara still has many traditional temples and buildings, including the famous Todaiji.

Nara is also famous for its deer. There are various vendors who sell shika senbei, or crackers that are made for the deer. While some (or a lot) may be pushy to get to the food, it's still an experience :)

The famed Todaiji, built in 752 as the head temple of all Buddhist temples in Japan, is a must-see. Its sheer size will take your breath away despite it being only two-thirds of the original size when it was reconstructed in the 1600s. The main hall is actually the world's largest wooden building! 

Not the best angle, but the bronze Daibutsu (Buddha) is actually fifteen meters tall!

Interesting fashion choices every day...

And you can't forget about the selfies, although I'm not a huge fan of those selfie sticks. 

Some cheap, but very yummy soba for lunch!! :) 

We ate in the small restaurant that overlooked the pond, away from the busy crowds and overpriced food along the main streets. 

Side streets always fascinate me because you never know what you'll find :)

This five-story pagoda is the second tallest in Japan, the first one is at Toji Temple which is seven meters taller. The pagoda is one of the few buildings that remain from Kofukuji. The Fujiwara clan was the most powerful family during the Nara and Heian periods and built Kofukuji as their family temple. Apparently, the temple used to have over a hundred buildings during the height of their power. 

Thank you so much for reading and I hope you all have a wonderful week! Sakura season is getting closer and I can't wait to go out and take as many photos as I can! ^^ Any suggestions? Let me know! :)