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ActivityKasuganochō, Nara
Deer Park
About
Nara's Deer Park is a vast, historic green space where over 1,000 free-roaming, protected shika deer coexist with visitors. Regarded as sacred messengers of the Shinto gods, these surprisingly polite deer will actually bow to you in exchange for a special rice cracker ('shika-senbei'). It is a must-visit for animal lovers and families, offering a rare, interactive wildlife experience alongside ancient temples like Todai-ji.
Insider Tip
Bow to the deer first; many will bow back before you feed them. Keep crackers hidden until ready, or you might get gently mobbed!
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