At Kasuga Taisha in Nara, besides paying my respects, what I enjoyed most was stopping by the Manyo Botanical Garden. The garden is full of greenery, and walking along its paths is very pleasant, with a quiet and relaxed atmosphere all around. You can admire various plants and seasonal flowers as you walk, and occasionally see deer strolling leisurely nearby. Compared with bustling tourist attractions, this feels more like a little corner where you can slow down and truly appreciate Nara's natural beauty.
Kasuga Taisha Manyo Botanical Garden | Review by BobbyJenny
Other Reviews by BobbyJenny
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Himuro Shrine (Nara Prefecture, Tenri City)
Located in Fukuzumi-cho, Tenri City, a place known as the origin of ice storage in Japan, the site boasts over 20 historical ice storage (Himuro) sites. Deeply connected to the Imperial family, the shrine, believed to have been established around 414 AD, is considered the head shrine of all Himuro Shrines across the country.
Himuro Shrine in Tenri City, Nara, has a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere than bustling tourist attractions. Once inside the shrine, you can feel its strong, traditional Japanese charm, and the surrounding greenery is very pleasant. Walking slowly along the approach and looking at the shrine buildings, there isn't much noise, which adds to the sense of tranquility. Besides seeing the deer and visiting temples on this trip to Nara, coming here to experience the atmosphere of a local shrine was also a very special memory.
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Kakinoha sushi Yakko
This Kakinoha sushi shop with a long history is located on Mt.Yoshino, Japan's best site for cherry blossoms. Kakinoha sushi is bite-sized vinegared rice topped with a piece of mackerel or salmon on rice, wrapped in a persimmon leaf and pressed with a heavy stone. It is now nationally known as Nara’s traditional food but it originated as local food in the Yoshino area.
I highly recommend trying YAKKO’s kakinoha sushi in Nara! The sushi is wrapped in persimmon leaves and looks small and delicate. When you unwrap it, there’s a subtle persimmon leaf aroma. The fish and vinegared rice taste refreshing without being too heavy, making it easy to keep eating. It was my first time trying it, and I found it very unique and full of local Nara character. It’s just right for a simple and convenient snack while traveling!
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Hakata Ikkousha Main Store
Of all the different Hakata Tonkotsu Ramen stores, “Hakata Ikkousha” is perhaps the most popular. Operating 5 different diverse brands, Ikkousha’s main store front is located in front of JR Hakata Station.
How could you visit Fukuoka and miss out on tonkotsu ramen! This time I tried Hakata Ikkousha. As soon as it arrived, the rich aroma of tonkotsu whetted my appetite.
The broth was rich and flavorful without just tasting greasy. Paired with springy thin noodles, chashu, and wood ear mushrooms, every bite had the distinctive character of Fukuoka ramen. The piping-hot broth with the noodles was especially satisfying!
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