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Showing posts from March, 2025

Day Trip at Todaiji and Wakakusayama Hill and what to eat at Nara

STAY: Nara:  Piazza Hotel Nara I  stayed at Piazza Hotel Nara, conveniently located right next to Nara Station. The location couldn't be better for easy access to transportation and exploring the area. The rooms are modern and well-designed. One of the standout features for me was the swivel mirror with magnifying capabilities, which was incredibly useful. Additionally, the rain shower was a delightful experience, with the option to toggle the water pressure to your liking. I stayed in a twin room, which was a little squeezy but still provided a comfortable stay. Despite the compact size, the thoughtful amenities and overall comfort made it a pleasant experience. Overall, Piazza Hotel Nara offers a great combination of convenience, modern amenities, and thoughtful details that enhance the stay. I highly recommend it for anyone visiting Nara. DO:  Hike up Wakakusayama Hill,  Climbing up Wakakusayama Hill was an unforgettable experience, though it was quite the challen...

Himeiji castle tour - A fortress that has never been through a war

Our journey began with a long ride from Osaka, armed with the Kansai 1 Day Pass recommended by the tourist center. This pass was perfect for our plans, as we were heading to Nara later in the evening. Himeji Castle, also known as the "White Heron Castle" due to its brilliant white exterior, is a stunning example of Japanese castle architecture. Built between 1581 and 1609, the castle complex includes a maze-like arrangement of fortified buildings, walls, and gates, with a six-storey tower keep at its center. The castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is renowned for its beauty and historical significance. Interestingly, Himeji Castle has never been under siege or destroyed by war, earthquakes, or fire, making it one of Japan's twelve remaining original castles. This remarkable preservation is a testament to its strategic design and the peaceful periods it has witnessed. The name "Himeji" derives from "Himeji-oka" (Himeji Hill) in the historical rec...