Monday, November 30, 2009

Nara

Our last day in Kyoto we took the train to Nara, the capital of Japan from 710 to 784. These days Nara is known for the 1200 deer that wander among the temple crowds. There is a legend that a mythical deity arrived in Nara on the back of a white deer to protect the city. Hence the deer have been given sacred status, and roam around wherever they choose. Mostly they stay where the tourists are, eating the biscuits that vendors sell to feed them.

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On the train. This was the trip where David and Anna bonded over their geekdom. Anna now plays video games on David's iPhone.

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Persimmon (and citrus) shop.

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Wedding photos.

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Prayers tied onto a tree next to a shrine.

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The main temple. It has a massive buddha inside. Alas it is virtually impossible to photograph.

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Along the side of the road. Not sure what the apron is for. Anyone know?

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Watching the turtles.


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