Traditional Japanese Travel with Deer: Nara Park

Nara Park, located in the heart of Nara City, is a vast green space where freely roaming deer coexist with ancient temples and shrines. Established in 1880, the park spans approximately 502 hectares, making it a destination where visitors can spend an entire day without feeling bored. The park is home to world-renowned cultural heritage sites such as Todai-ji Temple, Kofuku-ji Temple, Kasuga Shrine, and the Nara National Museum, offering a unique opportunity to experience Japan's history and culture simultaneously. Among these, Todai-ji's Great Buddha Hall is particularly famous for housing the world's largest bronze Buddha statue, attracting numerous visitors. Over 1,200 deer roam freely in this iconic Japanese destination. These deer are considered sacred messengers of Shinto gods and are protected as natural monuments. Visitors can interact with the deer by feeding them special deer crackers (shika senbei) sold within the park. The deer bow their heads in greeting when offered these treats, creating a memorable experience. The park also features historic temples and shrines such as Todai-ji and Kofuku-ji, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Japan's tradition and nature. At Kasuga Shrine, the sight of thousands of stone lanterns is particularly breathtaking. Open year-round and accessible 24 hours a day, Nara Park does not charge an entrance fee, although some temples and museums within the park may require separate admission fees. The park is conveniently located, just a 5-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station and a 20-minute walk from JR Nara Station. Nara Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to connect with deer and experience the ancient capital's charm during their trip to Nara. Nara Park 469 Zoshicho, Nara 630-8501 Nara Prefecture ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️