The heart of Nara’s travel experience can be considered “Nara Park.” This park is a sizable area that combines several regions. Thanks to its vastness, the park houses various tourist attractions and cultural heritage sites.
What makes Nara Park especially unique and vibrant is the presence of “deer.” Throughout Nara Park, you can encounter numerous deer, creating an atmosphere where humans and deer coexist harmoniously.
“Over 1,100 Wild Deer in Nara Park”
Nara Park is home to over 1,100 wild deer. Having lived alongside people for a considerable period, these deer now display a remarkable indifference when encountering humans. Instead, they might approach people first, creating enjoyable interactions. Particularly, if you hold deer senbei, crackers made for them, you may experience deer running towards you in groups.
“The Legend of Kasuga Taisha’s White Deer Inspired the Deer Park”
The abundance of deer in Nara is linked to the legend of Kasuga Taisha’s god descending on a white deer. Hunting has been prohibited since ancient times, leading to the current population. Deer in Nara are designated as natural monuments.
Even the oldest collection of Japanese poetry, “Manyoshu (750 AD),” records that deer lived in this area. These deer have shared their habitat with humans for an extended period.
Deer mainly feed on park grass and tree fruits. Tourists can offer them special deer senbei, shaped like circles.
“Nara Park, Preserving Various Tourist Sites and Cultural Heritage”
While deer are the most noticeable in Nara Park, it is not just about them. Various tourist sites and historical remains coexist within the park. These include Todai-ji, where you can see the world’s largest bronze statue, as well as Kohfuku-ji, the National Nara Museum, Japanese gardens such as Isuien and Yoshikien, Sarusawa Pond, and Ukimido.
“Nara, Nara Park”
- Address: Nara, Japan
- Phone: +81742220375
- Website: Nara Park
- Operating Hours: 24 hours