Feeling so grateful for three weeks spent in the countryside of beautiful Nara prefecture. Deep in the mountains, with the nearest supermarket (or even konbini) a 30 minute drive away. Time enjoying the slow life has been a balm for the soul, and what a privilege to have had as a backdrop to our time here the constant sound of the gently running river (which is also a lifesaver in the intense heat of Japan’s summer🌞🌾) On clear nights the stars are so bright and beautiful, peppering the same sky which during the day buzzes with life; dragonflies, mosquitoes and bugs I couldn’t even name.✨ Monkeys saunter on cables above the road, and driving at night we have seen the blue flash of eyes of literal deer in the headlights🦌. As it sets across the valley, the shadows of the sun slice the evening colours of the treeline. People here are friendly and welcoming, and many that we have met work as foresters, The area is known for its cedar, and nearby we can see (and smell) stacks of smoothed wood which will be used to make sake barrels🪵 If you would like to visit the area, I recommend a stay at @yado.hanare , a beautifully renovated traditional farmhouse where you can enjoy views across the river and forested mountains as you lie back on the tatami. #japantravel #japantrip #japanlife #japan #日本　#日本旅行 #奈良県 #ワーホリ #ワーキングホリデー #travelblogger #japanblogger