Kansai Part 3

A very speedy third installment. I figured I'd finish off my trip to se Sean in one day because I have a lot of other things I'd like to post.

On my third day in the Kansai area went to Nara, the first capital of Japan long before Tokyo or Kyoto. Sean used to live here, but he had to move in late January/early February, so it was about 45 minutes away by train from his new apartment. We went to Nara park, which is home to several hundred deer that are allowed to roam around freely. They can be a bit dangerous for young children (r if you're trying to feed them), but mostly they're docile and sit there watching you or looking for something to eat.

Also located in the park is Todaiji, the world's largest wooden structure, which houses the largest statue of Buddha in Japan. It was really impressive, and a model inside the building showed what the site looked 500 years ago when there was an even larger building and two 7-storey pagodas flanking the site. There are 2 large statues of Buddha in Japan (both are called daibutsu). The smaller statue is south of Tokyo in the city of Kamakura and I was able to see it in December 2005. Both statues have different peaceful poses, but I actually prefer the Kamakura daibutsu; it's not inside a building, and I saw it on a clear and quiet day, which made it more enjoyable to gaze at. It's hard to describe the difference, so you'll just have to come to Japan to see them both (^_^). If I remember then I'll post a picture of the other statue soon.

After the park, Sean and I had a nice lunch and then had to make the long train ride back to the Osaka airport. We played 2 games of chess on the train to pass the time, and to the amusement of the many people around us. Foreigners usually get stared at in Japan, but I'd never felt so many eyes on us as during our games. The couple sitting across from us were watching the game's progress more than us, and I regret that I disappointed them with my poor playing. Sean beat me easily. We started a second game, which was turning out to be one of the best that I've ever played (I was finally warmed up), but we had to change trains, so we had to abandon it.

I still have the picture of the board layout Sean, so I'd be up for continuing it i we get a chance.

So that's the end of my trip. I got back to Sendai just after 8pm and I had the next day to rest up. I love the Kansai area and the people. They're sooo friendly and I wish I could've met more. Hopefully I'll be able to visit again this year......Christmas perhaps???