Visit Nara

Following the narrow path past Yatadera Nansobo, you will come across some intriguing hand-painted signs, leading to a small Edo-era farmhouse. Ring the bell at the front gate and the charming kimono-clad owner, Ms Hanada will welcome you into the courtyard for tea. She offers what she calls her “omotenashi”, a Japanese take on afternoon tea for ¥2,000 per person, consisting of multiple small sweet and savory courses, all made (and mostly grown) by her. She invites visitors to take their time sitting in the garden, breathing in the clean mountain air and enjoying the sound of nothing but bird song and the click clack of her wooden geta sandals. She also sells crafts by local potters, artists and carvers. Although the owner speaks little English, her warm hospitality needs no translation.