Nara

Over the years, the capital of Japan has migrated to various cities. At one time, Nara was the capital of Japan and thus the home of the Emperor. It is also, surprise, surprise, the home of many shrines and temples. The most famous temple of all, the Todaiji temple, is located in the heart of Nara park. It is the largest wooden structure in the world and home of the largest wooden Buddhist statue. The statue is immense and stately, sitting 15 m high, on a carved, wooden lotus flower. The carvings on the flower told the story of the Buddha, the structure of heaven and earth as well as information about Japan. The large Buddha was surrounded by smaller gilded statues, creating a halo effect around the statue. Massive is the only thing to call it.
Groups of deer, considered to be messengers of the gods, run freely around the park area. They are quite tame and will pose for you to take pictures of them, however, just think about buying some of the treats to feed them and everything changes. The placid, sleeping deer suddenly become energized, racing over to you as you frantically attempt to tear off the paper to offer them a deer cookie. They steal from each other, nip you, knock the cookies out of your hand, and eat everything, including the paper. It lasts for approximately 20 seconds and then they instantly seem to know you are out of food for them and they return once again to the mellow, placid creatures you had originally seen.
We had the chance to visit a few more shrines, most notably the large, Karusa Taisha shrine, located on the edge of the primeval forest. Unfortunately, Japan takes celebrating the New Year quite seriously and many things were closed the week leading up to the New Years. We have decided that a 2nd trip to Nara, probably in the spring to enjoy the wisteria blooms it is famous for.