Nara Park Nara Deer Park Ultimate Guide Must Visit

Nara Park, home to the famous Nara Deer Park, is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Japan, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and interactive wildlife experiences. Located in Nara City, this park is renowned for its free-roaming deer and world-famous temples.

Getting to Nara Park

Nara Park is easily accessible from major cities like Kyoto and Osaka. Here are the steps to get there:

• From Kyoto: Take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station to JR Nara Station. The trip takes about 45 minutes, and the train departs every 30 minutes. This route is covered by the Japan Rail Pass.
• From Osaka: Use the Yamatoji Line from JR Namba Station or Tennoji Station to JR Nara Station. The journey takes between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the starting station. This trip is also covered by the Japan Rail Pass and some regional passes.
• From Tokyo: Take the Tokaido Shinkansen Line to Kyoto Station, then transfer to the JR Nara Line to reach JR Nara Station.

Once you arrive, Nara Park is a 20-minute walk from JR Nara Station or a six-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station.

Exploring Nara Park

Walking and Transportation

Nara Park is best explored on foot, allowing you to fully appreciate the scenery and interact with the deer. However, for those who prefer not to walk or need to cover larger distances, taxis and buses are available. Rickshaw rides are also a unique way to tour the park, especially during hot summer months.

Key Attractions

• Todaiji Temple: Famous for its 15-meter-high bronze Buddha, Todaiji Temple is a must-visit. Enter through Nandaimon Gate to see the two 8-meter-tall guardian figures.
• Kasugataisha Shrine: Known for its vermillion and white shrine buildings and beautiful brass lanterns, this shrine is also famous for its wisteria flowers that bloom in May.
• Isuien Garden: A beautiful example of traditional Japanese garden design, Isuien offers a serene escape from the crowds. It features a formal garden and a large strolling garden.
• Kohfukuji National Treasure Hall: Renowned for its collection of Buddhist carvings, this hall is a must-see for art enthusiasts.

Interacting with the Deer

Nara Deer Park is home to approximately 1,200 free-roaming sika deer, which are considered sacred in Shinto belief. Here are some tips for interacting with the deer:

• Feeding the Deer: Special deer biscuits are available for purchase throughout the park. Be prepared for the deer to bow for food, and be cautious as they can become aggressive if they believe you have food and are not sharing.
• Deer Behavior: While the deer are generally docile, they are still wild animals. Be aware of their body language, especially during mating season when male deer can be more aggressive.
• Respect and Safety: Keep food items and leaflets under wrap to avoid unwanted attention from the deer. Signs around the park remind visitors to treat the deer with respect and caution.

Best Time to Visit

Nara Park is open to visitors at any time, as it is a public area without closing hours. However, for the best experience:

• Early Morning: Visit before sunrise to hear the monk calling the deer down from the hills, creating a magical atmosphere.
• Early Afternoon: Deer tend to retreat into the forest later in the day, so aim for earlier in the day for optimal interactions.
• Seasonal Events: In October, witness the Shika-no-Tsunokiri ritual antler cutting event. Springtime is fawning season, and the park is particularly beautiful during cherry blossom season.

Accommodation and Dining

For those planning to stay in Nara, consider traditional Japanese inns (ryokans) like Hotel New Wakasa, Kotonoyado Musashino, or Tsukihitei. These offer outdoor baths, sleeping mats, and traditional Japanese menus, enhancing your overall experience.

Cost and Ethical Considerations

• Admission: There is no admission fee to enter Nara Deer Park, making it a free and accessible attraction.
• Feeding: Deer biscuits cost approximately 150 yen.
• Temple and Museum Visits: Visiting onsite temples or points of interest like Todaiji Museum, Hokkedo Hall, and Kaidanin Temple costs around ¥600 (about $5 USD).
• Ethical Treatment: The deer are well-cared for and considered living monuments. They are free to roam and are protected by law, with harsh penalties for harming them.

Additional Tips

• Bike Rentals: For a more leisurely exploration, consider renting a bike at Nara Station. This allows you to cover more ground and visit secluded spots within the park.
• Local Specialties: Try persimmon leaf sushi, a local specialty that originated in Nara. Also, look out for mochi-making demonstrations on the road to Nara Park.
• Souvenirs: The park area has numerous souvenir shops selling shika deer plushies and keychains, making for memorable gifts.