Wanderlost

Only took the wrong train once so far this entire trip (which, to be fair, was kind of the right one—just going the wrong direction?!), and honestly, that feels like a miracle given how navigationally challenged I am. Like… truly terrible. Definitely calling this a win, especially considering I can’t read 99% of the signs in either country.

Nara, once Japan’s first capital, is known for its ancient temples and shrines, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is also home to over a thousand deer. Yup—deer.

Fun fact: the origin of my name actually means deer—a symbol of peace, gentleness, and the balance between humanity and nature—which feels especially fitting here.

I’m visiting toward the tail end of sakura season. Most of the cherry blossoms have already fallen, but the city is still absolutely beautiful and charming. Some parts are very tourist-centered—Higashimuki Shopping Street, for example, was only really pleasant to walk through while it was raining, mostly because it’s covered. Otherwise, it was completely packed. But there were quieter, more authentic roads and alleys to wander, too.

It rained most of the four days I’ve been here, but I did get one lovely sunny day. Went out for coffee and somehow ended up on a spontaneous 11-mile walk/hike through the Kasugayama Primeval Forest to a beautiful waterfall. And by spontaneous, I mean: I wore white shoes, didn’t bring food, water, or a portable charger. Super fun when my stomach was rumbling and my phone was near death but still needed to translate directional signs—none of which were in English. So honestly, even if I were great at directions (remember, I’m not), I still would’ve been a bit lost.

But it was peaceful—only a handful of other humans on the trail—and I didn’t even listen to music. Just tried to focus on the sounds of nature, calming (or solving?) my mind, and, of course, listening to my stomach.

I visited Todai-ji Temple on the way back—one of Japan’s most famous and historically significant temples, home to the world’s largest bronze Buddha. The architecture and history are incredible… but for me, the sheer volume of tourists around the temples and shrines made it a little overwhelming.

Tonight’s my last night here, and I almost Uber Eats’d it (which, surprisingly, is actually possible here) because I didn’t feel like walking—my hip is screaming after that hike—or being around people, but, I ended up forcing myself to go out and had the best tonkatsu. Worth it.

This city is so walkable, clean, and comfortable—even with the tourists. I could’ve stayed longer; maybe someday I will. Japan is beautiful, and I’ll definitely be back to visit and explore more of the less-populated areas.

Now I’m packing up for a long travel day tomorrow. This is the point where the path deviates from the careful itinerary I made before I left home, but, it feels right. I’m excited. 😊