Nara Park Deer are one of Japan’s most famous attractions.
These friendly deer roam freely in the park and are loved by visitors from all over the world.
If you are visiting Nara, make sure to meet these amazing animals and enjoy a fun day outdoors.
Feeding the Nara Park Deer
You can feed the deer special crackers called shika senbei.
These crackers are sold in the park for about ¥200 (around $1.30 USD).
Many of the deer will bow to you as a thank-you before you feed them. It’s a unique experience you won’t forget!
Tips for Meeting the Deer
- Be gentle and kind to the deer.
- Only feed them shika senbei crackers, which are safe for them to eat.
- Avoid teasing the deer or waving food in front of them.
During autumn, male deer can be more aggressive, so keep a safe distance if they seem upset.
Things to Keep in Mind
The “Nara Deer” are a group of around 1,300 deer that roam freely in Nara Park and the surrounding areas in Nara City. At Kasuga Taisha Shrine, they are considered sacred deer and believed to be messengers of the gods.
While the deer are friendly, it’s important to treat them with respect.
- Do not hit, kick, or tease the deer.
- Remember, they are sacred animals and hold a special place in Japanese culture.
Enjoy your time with the Nara Deer, but always approach them with kindness and care.
Best Times to Visit
The best times to visit Nara Park Deer are:
- Spring (March to May): Cherry blossoms make the park beautiful.
- Autumn (October to November): The fall colors create a stunning view.
In summer, it’s better to visit in the morning or late afternoon when the deer are more active.
How to Get to Nara Park
- From Osaka: Take the train to Kintetsu Nara Station (about 40 minutes).
- From Kyoto: The train ride takes about 50 minutes.
From Kintetsu Nara Station, it’s just a 5-minute walk to the park. If you arrive at JR Nara Station, it’s about a 20-minute walk.
For a more luxurious journey from Kyoto to Nara, consider riding the “Aoniyoshi” Limited Express train. This elegant train offers a touch of luxury to your trip, with beautiful interiors and comfortable seating.
Learn more about the Aoniyoshi train here.
Nearby Attractions
While visiting Nara Park, don’t miss these amazing places:
- Todai-ji Temple: This is where you’ll find the famous Great Buddha statue.
- Kasuga Taisha Shrine: Known for its hundreds of stone lanterns, this shrine is a peaceful place to explore.
FAQ: Nara Park Deer
According to Shinto beliefs, the deer are sacred and considered messengers of the gods.
You should only feed them shika senbei crackers, which are safe and specially made for the deer.
Admission to Nara Park is free. However, you’ll definitely want to buy deer crackers for 200 yen (about 1.3 USD)!
As of 2024, there are 1,325 deer living in and around the park.
| Name | Nara Park |
|---|---|
| Address | Kasuganocho, Nara City, Nara Prefecture, 630-8212, Japan |
| Access |
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| Hours | Open 24/7 |
| Admission | Free |
| Social Media | |
| URL | Nara Park Official Website |
| Map | Google Maps |
