Why are there deer in Nara Park? Learn how to interact with them, tourist etiquette, and historical background.
Speaking of tourism in Nara brings to mind the image of deer for many people. Nara Park is home to around 1,300 deer, friendly creatures that actively approach locals and tourists alike. But why are there so many deer in Nara Park? This article provides basic information about the deer in Nara Park, the correct way to interact with them, and the etiquette that tourists should observe.
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The deer of Nara
The deer of Nara are wild animals that have inhabited the area for more than 1,300 years. They have long been regarded as divine envoys of the kami of Kasugataisha Shrine, and have, therefore, been carefully protected. Today, they can be seen regularly in the area centered around Nara Park. The deer of Nara are the same species as the sika deer found in other areas, but they have inherited DNA from ancient deer species and are designated natural monuments of Japan. However, since they are wild animals, the male deer can become aggressive especially in autumn. This article will help you learn the correct information to avoid getting hurt by the deer.
（写真提供＝春日大社）
Takemikazuchi no Mikoto, the kami of thunder who came riding on a white deer
Kasugataisha Shrine in Nara Park is the main shrine of the approximately 3,000 Kasuga Shrines spread across the country. Its history dates back to the early 8th century when Nara was the state capital.
At the time, there was a legend that when Takemikazuchi no Mikoto, the god of thunder, came from Kashima Jingu Shrine in present-day Ibaraki Prefecture to Nara, riding on a white deer. Based on this legend, deer came to be cherished as divine envoys of the god and the people in Nara have been protecting and loving deer in Nara Park.
What kind of life do the deer in Nara Park lead?
There are two types of deer in the park: those that live on the flat land and those that live in the hilly areas. Both types are wild animals that roam freely within the park. Their main diet consists of grass, leaves, acorns, and other plants found naturally there.
A deer's day begins at sunrise when they move from their "lodgings" to their feeding grounds. The essential lifestyle involves searching for food during the day and returning to their lodgings in the evening, living in harmony with the park's ecosystem.
Do not feed them anything other than deer biscuits (rice crackers)!
Deer biscuits (crackers), the deer love, are made from rice bran for easy digestion.
However, feeding them other food (sweets, bread, vegetables, leftovers, etc.) harms their health and can cause accidents, so NEVER feed them anything other than deer biscuits. Deer may also try to eat plastic bags, maps, pamphlets, or other objects that people hold in their hands, so be careful when approaching them and ensure that they do not take any of your belongings.
Use deer biscuits to communicate effectively
Deer biscuits are made from wheat flour and rice bran. They are said to have a long history from the early years of the Edo period (1603–1867). For the deer's health, no sugar or other sweeteners are in it at all. A pack of 10 biscuits costs 200 yen. A portion of the proceeds goes to activities to protect the park's deer.
The key to feeding biscuits is to give them one by one quickly. Please be careful when the deer can see the biscuits in front of them but cannot eat them, they may become excited and bite you. When running out of biscuits, it is important to spread your arms out to deer to indicate that you have no more. This will convince the deer and prevent any trouble.
When young children feed biscuits to the deer, try doing it together to ensure they enjoy the experience safely. It is especially cautious when feeding male deer with horns.
Deer biscuits available from vending machines
You can purchase deer biscuits at street stalls and gift shops in Nara Park, but you cannot previously purchase them after the evening. Therefore, vending machines were introduced in 2022, making it possible to buy the biscuits after the evening. These vending machines are installed in two locations: ROKUEN, a deer protection facility within Kasugataisha Shrine, and the rest area in Kasugataisha Shrine's car park. Each box contains a pack of 10 deer biscuits.
This is where you can meet the deer in Nara Park!
This section introduces six recommended spots in vast Nara Park and surrounding areas where you can encounter deer.
- Around Todaiji Temple
- Todaiji Temple was established during the Nara period (710–794) by Emperor Shomu to spread the teachings of Buddhism and protect the country. It is widely renowned for the Great Buddha and has greatly influenced Japanese culture and history. Many deer flock around Todaiji Temple, and visitors enjoy seeing them crowd on the sando (approach) to the temple's main gate.
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- Kohfukuji Temple
- Due to its proximity to the city, this is a popular spot among both tourists and locals. Although there are fewer deer here than in other areas, the deer standing against the backdrop of the Five-storied Pakamia (currently undergoing restoration) and the beautiful colors of the trees makes it one of the most iconic scenes in Nara. Sarusawa Pond nearby is also a famous spot known for the beautiful view created by Kohfukuji Temple's Five-storied Pakamia and the willows along the shores of the pond reflected on its surface.
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- Kasugataisha Shrine
- The shrine grounds extend across Mt. Mikasa, which has been considered sacred since ancient times. The shrine building, painted in bright vermilion (a red hue often seen in religious buildings), is surrounded by Mt. Kasuga Primeval Forest (World Heritage). Along the sando (approach) to the shrine, you can see many deer walking as if they were heading to worship with the people and relaxing by the sando's side.
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- Nara National Museum
- This is a museum that focuses on exhibiting Buddhist art, as well as national treasures and important cultural properties. It is in Nara Park, and you can also enjoy the sight of many deer gathering there. Particularly in the summer, you can see the deer crowding near the breeze of the ventilation ducts to cool off. This sight has become a feature of summer and soothes many visitors.
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- Tobihino (on the grounds of Kasugataisha Shrine)
- Tobihino, located on the grounds of Kasugataisha Shrine, is a vast grassy area facing the main sando (approach) to the shrine. Here, you can see herds of deer playing freely. This is also where the Shika Yose (Deer Gathering) event is held, where the musical tones of a natural horn are used to bring the deer together in a specific location.
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- Ukigumo-enchi
- Ukigumo-enchi is one of the nine enchi parks in Nara Park, where you can encounter the most deer.
It is located between the approach to Todaiji Temple and Kasugano International Forum and is a particularly lively area with souvenir shops lined up along the approach.
Over the pine branches, you can see the Great South Gate of Todaiji Temple to the north and the ridge of Mount Wakakusa to the east, which enhances the atmosphere of the ancient capital. 
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Events for learning more about deer
Nara Park holds many events where you can learn more about deer. If you want to learn more about the ecology of deer in depth, rather than just sightseeing, we recommend participating in the seasonal events.
- Deer Antler Cutting ceremony
- At the Deer Antler Cutting Grounds within Kasugataisha Shrine (located in Nara Park), a deer antler cutting ceremony will be held. This impressive ancient ritual of "Deer Antler Cutting" that colors the autumn season has been passed down as a traditional event for about 340 years since the Edo period, representing the coexistence between deer and the people of Nara.
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- Public display of fawn
- Deer’s breeding season is coming along in mid-May! The facility called ‘Rokuen’ usually keeps mothers and fawns in a safe place during this season to protect their welfare. However, between June 1 and 30, it will be welcoming all guests to give a sneak peek of mother deer and babies.
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- Shika Yose (Deer Gathering) of spring
- If you will wake up early in the morning upon your visit in Nara, enjoy the peaceful scenery of deer gathering ‘Shikayose’ at Tobihino. Deer will be invited to the field from woods with the sound of the horn. Participation is free of charge.
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- Shika Yose (Deer Gathering) of summer
- If you will wake up early in the morning in summer time upon your visit in Nara, enjoy the peaceful scenery of deer gathering ‘Shikayose’ at Tobihino. Deer will be invited to the field from woods with the sound of the horn. Participation is free of charge.
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- Shika Yose (Deer Gathering) of winter
- If you will wake up early in the morning in summer time upon your visit in Nara, enjoy the peaceful scenery of deer gathering ‘Shikayose’ at Tobihino. Deer will be invited to the field from woods with the sound of the horn. Participation is free of charge.
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Protecting the deer for the next 100 years - ROKUEN
ROKUEN is a facility operated by the Nara Deer Preservation Foundation that protects deer in Nara Park. It protects about 300 deer and those who are sick or injured. The aim is to create an environment where people and deer can coexist.
Pregnant deer are also protected here, and support is provided to help about 200 mother deer give birth to healthy fawns every year. The mother deer and fawns stay in ROKUEN until around mid-July, where the fawn can be raised in safety. Some exhibits teach the ecology and history of deer, so you can deepen your knowledge during the visit.
Deer-themed items to bring home as mementos! Introducing Shikamarokun merchandise
Deer-themed merchandise makes the perfect gift to remember your trip to Nara. We recommend merchandise related to Shikamarokun, the official mascot character of the Nara City Tourism Association. Shikamarokun's charm lies in its classic round eyebrows and smiling eyes. Its favorite food is, of course, deer biscuits. An extensive selection of items, including dolls, cookies, baumkuchen, paper folders, and key chains, makes the perfect gift. You can purchase these at souvenir shops in the city of Nara.
Summary
Meeting adorable deer is one of the attractions of sightseeing in Nara. Along with touring the historic shrines and temples, if you learn how to feed deer biscuits properly and take note of the precautions, your trip to Nara will be even more enjoyable.
