Uji & Nara: A Day of Matcha, Deer, and Scenic Views

#newyearnewtrip #travelanywhere We started our day early with a train ride to Uji Station, ready for a day of matcha indulgence and cultural exploration. Our first stop was the stunning Byodo-in Temple, famous for being featured on the 10-yen coin. The temple, surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage, was peaceful and beautiful. A quick treat followed with a delicious matcha soft serve from Masuda Chaho—smooth, rich, and refreshing, it was the perfect way to kick off the day. For brunch, we visited Torikiku, a traditional local eatery run by elderly Japanese folks. Known for its matcha soba and matcha udon, the humble yet flavorful dishes gave us an authentic taste of Uji’s culinary tradition. Next, we explored the iconic Uji Bridge, taking in the serene view of the river and the surrounding landscapes. We also spotted the Statue of Murasaki Shikibu, the author of The Tale of Genji, adding a literary touch to our scenic walk. No trip to Uji would be complete without more matcha treats. We headed to Nakamura Tokichi Byodo-in, where we enjoyed a matcha parfait and tea with a stunning view of the Uji River. To top it off, we grabbed matcha popsicles from Itoh Kyuemon, a refreshing way to indulge in more local flavors. Next, we boarded another train to Nara Station, ready for the Land of Deer. Upon arriving, we rushed to Nakatanidou to see the famous mochi pounding, but unfortunately, we missed the show as we arrived around 3:30 pm. Still, we enjoyed the lively atmosphere of Nara. We headed to Nara Deer Park (Noborioji Park), where the friendly deer eagerly greeted us for food. Their adorable bowing behavior made the experience all the more special. A short hike up to Todai-ji Nigatsu-do gave us a beautiful panoramic view of Nara from the mountain, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city below. Afterward, we strolled around Higashimuki Shopping Street before finishing the day with a hearty dinner at Nara Omotenashi, a cozy local restaurant known for its warm ambiance and delicious Japanese cuisine. Satisfied and full, we made our way back to our hotel near Kyoto Station, reflecting on a wonderful day spent in two of Japan's most charming cities. #travel #couplestrip #japan