We were able to see two of the most spectacular temples and shrines in Japan during our weeklong visit through the Osaka area. Todaiji Temple in Nara was a short walk up from the train station, through the park full of the roaming deer.

But as you can tell by our rosy cheeks & sunburns… it was pretty hot.

So it was a good thing this place lived up to the hype.

Somebody made this! A long time ago! Isn’t that truly incredible? We don’t make things this cool now.

 

We trekked just as far through the downtown streets of Osaka hunting for the Namba Yasaka Shrine, tucked away on a side street. We almost gave up, but luckily did not, because this is the view that greeted us through the torii once we arrived.

How completely fantastic is this!

Seriously disappointed all stages aren’t like this.

I love these prayer cards, and this tradition of writing your hopes and dreams down and then letting it go to something bigger than yourself, and trusting it will turn out ok.

My son’s favorite part – by far – was getting to ring the bell. We tried for only once, but it was a fight to stop there.

These are two of my favorite spots in Japan. If you have the time, pay each a visit! More information on Namba Yasaka Shrine is here, and on Todaiji Temple here.