Nara Park

One of Japan’s oldest parks, Nara Park is on the government’s list of “Places of Scenic Beauty”. In addition to its ponds and shrines, the park contains a furry attraction, the sika deer, in this area known as the Nara deer. No kidding, these deer approach people, then bow their heads in order to receive a rice cracker treat.

Once considered sacred, these deer have lived in Nara without fear of hunters. Visitors to the park can purchase rice crackers to feed the deer, with an exchange of bows beforehand.

Some tourists have teased the deer, leading to one of the most common reasons for deer attacks. The deer have also gone through spells of malnutrition and disease. The government has culling and cordoning policies to manage any deer-related issues. The deer are an attraction and I was happy to have visited and fed a few.

Anjali Reaching Out

Bowing And Feeding

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