When I visited Japan for the first time in November 2017, I followed the classic Golden Route that many tourists take—Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and the main cities in between. Without a doubt, Nara Park was the highlight of my trip. The peaceful atmosphere, friendly deer, and the stunning Todai-ji Temple made it the perfect way to spend a rainy autumn afternoon.
Getting to Nara Park
During my visit to Nara, I joined a tour group that stopped at the park. However, if you’re planning to head there yourself via public transport, Nara is readily reachable from Kyoto or Osaka. Simply catch a train to Kintetsu Nara Station or JR Nara Station, and you’ll find the park a brief stroll away. Navitime is a great online tool to use to plan your journey around Japan.
Nara Park in autumn
I can’t even begin to describe the beauty of Japan in autumn! The landscape is undoubtedly beautiful and Nara Park is a wonderful place to experience the fall foliage. The park was lined with hues of yellow, red and green spreading across the horizon. The best part for me was seeing the deer amidst the scenery—it felt like my perfect autumn wonderland.
Where do the deers in Nara Park come from?
According to Geographic Expeditions, the sacred deer of Nara Park are linked to an 8th-century legend where the Shinto deity Takemikazuchi no Mikoto (the god of thunder) arrived in Nara riding a white deer carrying a scroll in its mouth. He warned that, from that point on, the deer would report humans’ actions to the gods. In response, the people built shrines and vowed to protect the deer. If anyone was found to have killed a deer, it was punishable by death. As a result, the deer lived freely for centuries, growing accustomed to humans and losing the natural fear most deer species have.
Despite their semi-tame nature, the deer in Nara Park are still wild animals at heart. While the deer in Nara Park roam freely during the day, they retreat to the nearby forests and woodlands at night to rest. Mainly because the surrounding Nara mountains and wooded areas provide a safe, quiet spot for them to sleep.
Biscuits for the deer
All around Nara Park, you will find vendors selling “shika senbei”, otherwise known as “deer crackers”. These crackers are specially made for the deer and consist of wheat flour and rice bran. You can find out more about the biscuits here.
Of course my trip would not be complete without the wholesome experience of feeding the deer. And while it was definitely wholesome, it was also damn frightening.
Have you ever been circled by a herd of hungry deers nudging you? If no, then Nara Park is the perfect place to experience this. It’s intimidating to say the least. I was simultaneously scared and joyous at the same time. But I suppose I got off lightly, as off in the distance, I saw a lady screaming while being chased across the park by deers.
Here’s a word of warning: the deer know when you have the crackers, and they’re not shy about going after them. I had mine tucked away in my coat pocket, and they still knew. They just knew. But at least they’re polite about it—the rumours are true, they really do bow their heads for treats.
Final thoughts
I had such a great time visiting Nara Park, and my only regret is not having more time to explore the rest of Nara! I’ve heard the park is just as stunning in spring, with cherry blossoms in full bloom. It’s definitely on my bucket list to return and experience it next time!
