A Day in Nara
On our last full day in Japan, Pedro and I set off for a day trip to Nara, one of Japan’s most historic and serene cities. On the way, we made a stop in South Kyoto at the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine, renowned for its iconic 1,000 red torii gates. Walking through the gates, I was struck by the incredible beauty and tranquility they offer—there’s something special about weaving through these vibrant structures that makes you feel connected to the past.
From there, we continued our journey to Nara, where our first stop was the Todaiji Temple, home to the magnificent Great Buddha Statue. This enormous bronze statue, the largest in the world, dates back to the 8th century. Standing before such an ancient and awe-inspiring monument, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of reverence for the history that surrounds it. Exploring the many ancient structures of the temple complex, we were reminded once again of the profound cultural legacy Japan preserves so beautifully.
Afterward, we made our way to the top of Mount Wakakusa, which stands at around 1,200 feet. The view from the top was breathtaking, offering a stunning panorama of Nara. It was a peaceful moment, surrounded by nature, providing the perfect opportunity to reflect on everything we’d experienced during our time in Japan. There’s something calming about being at that height, looking out over the city, with nothing but the sound of the breeze around you.
One of the most unique aspects of Nara is the free-roaming deer that wander the city. These sacred animals are tied to the Shinto religion, which considers them messengers of the gods. Seeing them casually stroll through the parks and streets was a surreal experience, and it added an element of natural harmony to the day. We even stopped to feed a few before making our way to our final destination in Nara—the Kasuga Shrine, famous for its beautiful stone and bronze lanterns.
Back in Kyoto, Pedro and I enjoyed a sukiyaki dinner, reminiscing over the day’s adventures and the journey as a whole. As we prepared to pack up for our journey back to Miami, we reflected on how much this trip had exceeded both of our expectations. While the research and historical landmarks were invaluable, the deeper connection we felt to Japanese culture left the most lasting impact. The respect and positivity we experienced from the Japanese people were inspiring, reaffirming the Valente Brothers’ and StandStrong’s commitment to teaching Japanese martial arts, philosophy, and culture.
This trip wasn’t just about exploring new places—it was about understanding the heart of Japanese tradition and how it continues to influence and shape what we do.