Nara is famous for the deer which, designated as National Treasures, roam freely through the 502ha Park.
They are almost tame! almost. According to the warning signs (which are ENTIRELY in Kanji) they can shoot electricity out of their heads. Creepy deer.
I took about 7000 photos of the deer.
I didn't buy an inflatable deer. But I did buy a hat which makes it look like I'm wearing a deer on my head!
Craig outside Tōdai-ji, the largest wooden building in the world, is a temple which houses a 50 foot tall Buddha (have I mentioned that I love Giant Buddhas?) Vairocana.
Vairocana (this iteration) is a Buddha who is the embodiment of Dharmakaya, and who therefore can be seen as the universal aspect of the historical Gautama Buddha. In Sino-Japanese Buddhism, Vairocana is also seen as the embodiment of the Buddhist concept of shunyata or Emptiness.
Painting roof tiles. Auspicious.
Most of the leaves had turned by the time we arrived in Japan but some trees were still astounding.
I'm guessing it says "Caution. Angry deers can electrocute".
Then we bought special deer crackers and fed the adorable little beasts.
I found it a little terrifying though, they are quite tall. I mean, compared to me.
The platform for the train from Nara to Kyoto was lovely. Rainbow glass and special boarding points for ladies (at peak times only of course).
We caught the train to Kyoto, struggled (just a little) to find our hotel then collapsed.
Though I much prefer your head-electricity explanation, to shed some light on boring reality:
ReplyDeleteThe first sign is saying you shouldn't get too friendly with any fawns, as Mama Deer might be a bit protective.
The second is saying that startled deer (I love that collocation) can suddenly bolt so watch out (especially when chased by a dog, but who blames them).
Anyway, nice pics! You nailed the Buddha in low light too. But the deer ones are the more impressive (never work with animals, right).