Day 4 – Monday 18 September

Exploring Nara and Kyoto: A Day of Temples and Tranquility plus wild deer!

Up early for a full day on our own private tour as we explored the enchanting destinations of Nara and old Kyoto. Our day began in Nara, where friendly deer (though wild) and historic temples awaited. The Todaiji Temple showcased the awe-inspiring Great Buddha, the surrounding temples and walkways. The construction of the Great Buddha Hall(Daibutsuden) commenced in 745, and 15-metre high seated figure around 752. Only a smaller area of the original are extant. Most of the present sculpture dates to a reconstruction in 1692,

Returning to Kyoto, we were mesmerized by the glittering gold of Kinkakuji, the Golden Pavilion, set against serene gardens. The Kyomizu Dera high in the hills offered panoramic city views, evoking Kyoto’s spiritual essence.

Many students tried to catch the natural flowing spring water to drink. Nijo Castle immersed us in Japan’s feudal past, with its remarkable “nightingale floors.” An elegant and effective alarm system around what was a beautiful summer residence was built in 1603 as the Kyoto residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo Period (1603-1867).

Culinary delights awaited as we savored a traditional Kaiseki lunch, a symphony of traditional flavors and artful presentation. Evening found us at Hotel Elcient for dinner and relaxation.

Getting their bags all packed for tomorrow’s start of backpacking, had the students making some astute decisions about what they needed to take oppose to what they wanted to take with them.!

Retiring with memories of deer encounters, temple grandeur, and Japanese cuisine, we embraced history, culture, and natural beauty. A full day of exploration, well done team!

Tomorrow is moving day, down to Hiroshima for our next adventure, while our luggage takes a shortcut out to the country side to our sister school to wait for our arrival on Friday.

We ask you keep us in your prayers; health, safety and strong relationships as your children explore and embrace the new challenges each day!

The leaders are proud of them all, as we know you are!

Oyasuminasai