Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine in Nara

Today, the Roberts Fellows were tasked with getting us from Kyoto to Nara for a day trip.  We came, we saw, we road a train.  It was pretty cool actually.  Good mass transit systems are just awesome and the ride to Nara gave us a great view of the country.  I know I keep saying what a beautiful country Japan is.  The problem is that no matter where we go, we just see more beautiful views.  Among other things, Nara is notable for deer.  According to the Shinto religion, deer were the messengers for a god coming to the city.  This means that the city is full of tame deer.  Do you want a mellow experience?  Stroll along a tree covered walkway lined with ancient stone lanterns and filled with tame deer.  It felt like something out of Disney movie.  Admittedly the hoards of school children detracted from the serenity a bit, but they were having fun so it just added to the festivities.  Among other things, we saw the largest bronze Buddha in the world at the Todaiji Temple and President Gilbertson bought a roof tile that the Roberts Fellows decorated, which will be placed on top of the temple.  Anne and I also accidentally ordered children's meals for lunch because we couldn't read the menu.   :)

P.S.  Make sure that you are checking the video stream too since there are videos inside the temple, among other things.  www.tout.com/brianthesoc

On the train to Nara!

Nara!

The Three Story Pagoda

Todaiji Temple (look at how small the people are at the entrance)

This tile will be placed on the roof of the Todaiji Temple

This is a Japanese Happy Meal (it was yummy!)

Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Deer in Nara

More Nara deer