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Information about Deer

It is pretty common to find deers in public parks in Japan. Most of it is due to the fact that they are considered a sacred animal because of their significance in Shintoism, one of the two main religions of Japan.

The most significant place for the deers in Japan is the very well known Nara park, where as many as 1200 deers roam free and live a very wealthy life, protected by the law and spoiled by the tourists. In fact, in exchange for a pose for a selfie, tourist from all over the world visting Nara are more than happy to feed these curious animals with bread or sweets.

When you visit Japan, we recommend you to take some time to familiarize with the deers, bring some snacks to feed them and take the unmissable souvenir photo, either in Nara park or on the Miajima island, both areas where the Japanese deers reign and entertain the tourists.

Interesting facts about Deer

Deers will eat literally whatever you feed them. Both in Miyajima and in Nara Park, the two most famous places for deers spotting in Japan, you will be "assaulted" by the curious and constantly-hungry animal. They will accept from you sweets, candies, a sandwich or the regular food that you can buy at the designated stands that sell you the specific food for them. Be careful with them! They are so hungry, they will come close to your backpack and sniff if there is anything to eat! It is not uncommon to see them eating paper maps from the hands of the astonished and shocked visitors!

There are more than 50 types of deers in the world, but the ones we meet in Japan can only be found here. The scientific name is "cervus nippon" and this says a lot about their connection with Japan ("Nippon" in Japanese). This species is here overabundant and easy to be found around.

Nara deers are said to be able to bow at visitors. For the amusement of the passersby, when they approach a deer, the animal can be seen lowering its head as it was bowing, which is a very common social habit in Japan. Unlike the Japanese humans however, the deeers don't bow out of politeness, but they are all about food! In fact they do this, because they have learned in time that like this they can more easily conquer the hearts of the visitors, whose hands are full of sweets they can't wait to get!

Pictures of Deer

Deer in Nara
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Nara deer

Highlights where the Deer can be seen

biwako
Floating Torii

The floating torii of Miyajima is one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks, standing majestically in the waters of the Seto Inland Sea. Officially part of the Itsukushima Shrine, this striking vermilion gate appears to 'float' at high tide, creating a breathtaking illusion that has captivated visitors for centuries. Originally built in the 12th century, the torii symbolizes the sacred boundary between the human and spiritual realms. Travelers from around the world visit Miyajima to witness its mystical beauty, especially during sunset, when the torii is bathed in golden hues. At low tide, visitors can walk up to the base of the gate and admire its craftsmanship up close.

Deer in Nara
The Deer of Nara

One of the most enchanting experiences in Nara, Japan, is encountering the free-roaming deer of Nara Park. Over 1,000 Sika deer live in the area and are considered messengers of the Shinto gods in Japanese tradition. These gentle creatures have been protected for centuries and have become a beloved symbol of Nara. Visitors can interact with the deer by feeding them special shika senbei (deer crackers), and some have even learned to bow in exchange for treats! Strolling through Nara Park, surrounded by deer and historic temples, offers a magical glimpse into Japan’s cultural and natural harmony.

Itsukushima Jinja
Visit Itsukushima Shrine

Itsukushima Shrine, located on the sacred island of Miyajima in the Seto Inland Sea, is one of the most famous Shinto shrines in Japan. It is known for its stunning "floating" torii gate, which appears to be rising from the sea during high tide. The shrine is a perfect example of the harmony between nature and human craftsmanship. It was first built in the 6th century, but the current structure dates back to the 12th century and was commissioned by the powerful warlord Taira no Kiyomori. The shrine was designed to blend in with its surroundings, and its bright red buildings stand out against the blue waters and green mountains. Itsukushima Shrine is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and continues to be a place of spiritual significance and natural beauty, attracting visitors from all over the world.

Todaiji
Visit Todaiji, the Great Temple of the East.

The immense Buddhist temple Todai-ji ("Great Eastern Temple"), recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit while in Nara. Its impressive 30-meter tall gate, Nandaimon, will immediately captivate you with its magnificent architectural design. Step inside the Daibutsu-den, the main temple, known as one of the largest wooden buildings in the world. Within, you will encounter the enormous bronze statue of Buddha, Vairocana ("the radiant All"), standing at over 15 meters tall.

Our trips to spot the Deer