Ayumi's co-worker and a friend rented a van and showed us all around, starting at Japan's first UNESCO site, Horyuji Temple. It is the oldest wooden structure in the world - built throughout the 7th and 8th centuries. It is incredible that it survived several wars and earthquakes.
After a lunch of udon (we had the vegetable-full udon^^), we moved on to the Todaiji Temple, of which I had heard so much. We were immediately greeted by several of the hendreds of deer who freely roam the park and head butt visitors when they don't give rice crackers. As we walked towards the temple, it started to rain. Being March 11th there was a memorial service for the earthquake the year before. The feeling I got as I gazed up at the 45-foot tall Buddha to the haunting music of an electric trumpet is indescribable.
Our last stop before dinner was at the top of the mountain above Todaiji Temple with a beatiful view of Nara and distant storm clouds rolling in. Also, being March 11th, it was Denise's birthday. Ayumi's co-worker had found a restaurant that not only had vegetarian options, but served a five-course vegan feast! It was delicious! And so was the birthday cake that followed :) We went home that night pleasantly full and fulfilled.
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