Nara Park Deer

Deer as Divine Messengers

Nara Park's deer are wild animals revered as sacred messengers of Kasuga Taisha. Protected as "divine deer" since the Nara period, they are special beings that have coexisted with humans for over 1,000 years. About 1,200 deer currently roam freely within the park.

Shika Senbei (Deer Crackers)

"Shika senbei" deer crackers are simple crackers made from wheat flour and rice bran. Deer swarm when they see tourists holding crackers. The deer's "bow" (lowering their head before receiving crackers) is a particularly popular photography subject.

Antler Cutting Ceremony

The "Deer Antler Cutting" held annually in October in Nara Park is performed for injury prevention and deer safety management. A tradition continuing since the Edo period as a Kasuga Taisha ritual, viewable by tourists.

Spring Cherry Blossoms and Deer

Nara Park in spring is a spectacular season enjoying collaboration between cherry blossoms and deer. The combination of cherry blossoms and deer near Yoshikien Garden and Ukimido Pavilion, representing Japan's spring scenery, draws many photographers from home and abroad.