Day 2 in Nara greeted me with sunshine and a cool, gentle breeze—a welcome contrast to the rain from the day before.
The main plan for the day was to climb Mount Wakakusa.

Before setting out, I returned to Yayoiken restaurant—a familiar and comforting choice. This time, I realized they offered much more than breakfast. Knowing I had a long trek ahead, I ordered a more substantial meal: rice topped with fried chicken cutlet and egg. Hearty, filling, and exactly what I needed for the day.

From Nara Station, I walked all the way to the base of the mountain. The path itself was part of the experience—gradually leaving behind the busier streets and moving closer to open space, where nature begins to take over.

The climb up Mount Wakakusa was steady and, at times, tiring. But it was never overwhelming. Step by step, the path revealed itself.

Along the way, I encountered the famous deer of Nara—freely roaming, curious, and always ready for a snack. Feeding them added a playful, lighthearted break to the climb.

Reaching the top, I was rewarded with a sweeping view of Nara—open skies, distant temples, and the quiet spread of the city below. The kind of view that makes the effort feel worthwhile.

It was a tiring day, but a deeply satisfying one.
Climbing the mountain felt like a simple reminder: most things don’t require speed, just patience. One step, then another.
In a way, it mirrors the practice itself—not about rushing toward a goal, but continuing steadily, even when the path feels long.
And perhaps that’s enough.
Just keep walking.

Mayvall be well and happy.