{"id":294588,"date":"2023-07-27T05:30:00","date_gmt":"2023-07-27T09:30:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/milesopedia.com\/?p=294588"},"modified":"2024-06-20T08:30:21","modified_gmt":"2024-06-20T12:30:21","slug":"nara-sacred-deer-guide-japan-must-sees","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/milesopedia.com\/en\/guide\/destination\/nara-sacred-deer-guide-japan-must-sees\/","title":{"rendered":"Nara must-sees: The ultimate guide to Japan’s city of sacred deer"},"content":{"rendered":"

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

The city of Nara<\/a>, east of Kyoto<\/a>, is a must-see if you’re visiting Japan.<\/p>\n

Nara is located in the Kansai region of southern Japan. The capital of Nara prefecture, Nara, was also once the capital of Japan. Geographically, Nara is close to several major cities, including Kyoto and Osaka, making it a popular destination for day trips.<\/p>\n

[\/vc_column_text]\n

<\/div>\n[vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

Here you can admire the beauty of ancient temples and shrines, as well as the deer that live here and are considered messengers of the gods, sacred animals for its inhabitants. Discover the must-sees of this city with its rich history and unique atmosphere.<\/p>\n

[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”275948″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded”]

\t\t\n\t\t
\n\t
\n\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t<\/div>[\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Introduction: Why go to Nara?” el_id=”introduction_why_go_to_nara_”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover or culture explorer, Nara has something to offer everyone. Here are just some of the reasons why you should visit Nara.<\/p>\n

[\/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”History and culture” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” el_id=”history_and_culture”][vc_column_text]Nara<\/strong> was Japan’s first permanent capital, reflected in its many historical sites. Famous for its Buddhist temples and Buddha statues, which testify to the importance of Buddhism in the region, Nara’s temples and shrines are among the oldest and most impressive in Japan.<\/p>\n

These include Todai-ji, home to the world’s most giant bronze Buddha statue, and Horyu-ji, recognized as the world’s oldest existing wooden building.[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”294469″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded”][vc_custom_heading text=”Nature” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” el_id=”nature”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

Nara is particularly famous for its park, Nara Park, where over 1,200 sika deer, an Asian species, roam freely. You can buy specially adapted cakes to feed these sacred animals and spend a relaxing day in nature.<\/p>\n

Mountains surround Nara on three sides, with Mount Ikoma to the west, Mount Katsuragi to the south, and Mount Kasuga and Mount Wakakusa to the east, offering breathtaking views of the city. These mountains add to the region’s natural beauty and offer numerous trails for hiking and other outdoor activities.<\/p>\n

[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”294479″ img_size=”large” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded”][vc_custom_heading text=”Accessibility” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” el_id=”accessibility”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

Nara is ideally located near Kyoto (29km) and Osaka (42km), making it an easy day trip from these major cities. Public transport in Nara is excellent. It’s easy to get there by train from both cities, with journey times generally under an hour.<\/p>\n

[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”275956″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded”][vc_custom_heading text=”Authentic experience” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” el_id=”authentic_experience”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

Finally, unlike more prominent cities like Tokyo or Osaka, Nara offers a more peaceful and authentic experience of Japan. It’s the ideal place for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and discover a quieter side of the country.<\/p>\n

In short, Nara is a destination that harmoniously combines history, culture, nature and cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. Whatever your reasons for visiting this city, you’re sure to find something to love.<\/p>\n

[\/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1\/2″][vc_single_image image=”275973″ img_size=”large” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded”][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1\/2″][vc_single_image image=”275950″ img_size=”large” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded”][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner]

\t\t\n\t\t
\n\t
\n\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t<\/div>[\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Nara's must-sees” el_id=”nara_039_s_must-sees”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

The “must-sees” are well known, but the city is also home to many lesser-known gems. Here’s a combined list of Nara’s must-sees<\/a> and hidden treasures.<\/p>\n

[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”275946″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded”][vc_custom_heading text=”Visit Nara's parks, temples and museums” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” el_id=”visit_nara_039_s_parks_temples_and_museums”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

    \n
  1. Nara Park<\/strong>: Classified as a place of scenic beauty, it’s a visitor’s first stop. Here you’ll find over 1,200 free-ranging, semi-domesticated deer and hinds, which you can feed with locally purchased cookies. Why not visit during the sakura? You’ll see an enchanting pink landscape with deer stretched out under the cherry blossoms<\/a>!<\/li>\n
  2. T\u014ddai-ji temple<\/strong>: This famous temple is home to the world’s most giant bronze Buddha statue. If you’re lucky, you’ll also be able to admire the cherry blossoms in the surrounding area.<\/li>\n
  3. Kasuga-Taisha Shrine<\/strong>: Known for its thousands of stone lanterns, this is one of Japan’s most important Shinto shrines.<\/li>\n
  4. K\u014dfuku-ji temple<\/strong>: With its five-storey pagoda, this temple is one of Nara’s most important historical monuments.<\/li>\n
  5. Nara National Museum<\/strong>: The museum offers an overview of Japanese Buddhist art and regularly organizes exhibitions of precious artifacts.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    [\/vc_column_text][vc_gallery interval=”0″ images=”276018,276014,276012,276000,275992,275990,275986,275981,275979″ img_size=”large” onclick=””][vc_custom_heading text=”Nara's hidden treasures” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” el_id=”nara_039_s_hidden_treasures”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

      \n
    1. Naramachi<\/strong>: Besides its deer, Nara is famous for its historic district, with traditional houses, small stores and craft workshops.<\/li>\n
    2. Mount Wakakusa<\/strong>: An easy hike with breathtaking views over Nara. Enjoy a family hike or a romantic picnic at sunset. In January, Mount Wakakusa hosts the Yamayaki Festival.<\/li>\n
    3. Jardin Isui-en<\/strong>: A magnificent Japanese garden often overlooked by tourists. It offers perfect tranquillity and superb views over the rooftops of Todai-ji.<\/li>\n
    4. Ukimido Pavilion<\/strong>: The “Floating Pavilion” offers a peaceful view of Sagi Pond in Nara Park.<\/li>\n
    5. Horyu-ji Temple<\/strong>: Located a little further from Nara, this is the oldest existing wooden building in the world. It’s a little off the beaten track for many visitors, but well worth a visit.<\/li>\n
    6. Nara Toy Museum<\/strong>: Located in the city center, your children can play with traditional and mechanical toys.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

      Each place has its own unique history and charm, adding to the experience of any visit to Nara.<\/p>\n

      [\/vc_column_text][vc_gallery interval=”0″ images=”275958,275960,275963,275967,275969,275971,275973″ img_size=”large” onclick=””][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Other things to do in Nara” el_id=”other_things_to_do_in_nara”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

      In addition to its cultural sites and deer, there are many other things to do here. Here are a few ideas for your future trip.<\/p>\n

      [\/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Local crafts” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” el_id=”local_crafts”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

        \n
      1. Nara calligraphy:<\/strong> Nara is famous for its ink and brushes, and many stores offer workshops<\/a> where you can try your hand at Japanese calligraphy. It’s an educational activity that children might enjoy. They’ll learn to write their name in Japanese characters and leave with a unique souvenir.<\/li>\n
      2. Akahada ceramics<\/strong>: Nara is also known for its Akahada ceramics, which are appreciated for their simplicity and use of natural motifs. Courses are offered in Naramachi<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

        [\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”294481″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded”][vc_custom_heading text=”Festivals in Nara” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” el_id=”festivals_in_nara”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

          \n
        1. Omizutori Festival<\/strong>: Also known as Shuni-e, this is one of Japan’s oldest Buddhist festivals, held every March at Todai-ji temple. It is famous for its nocturnal processions of monks carrying giant torches.<\/li>\n
        2. Takigi Noh Lantern Festival<\/strong>: Usually in May, Heian-Jingu Shrine hosts traditional Noh theatre performances by torchlight in the open air, creating a unique and magical atmosphere.<\/li>\n
        3. Yamayaki Festival<\/strong>: Every year in January, the grass on Mount Wakakusa is set ablaze in an impressive spectacle that attracts many visitors.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

          [\/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Tea ceremony” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” el_id=”tea_ceremony”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

          The tea ceremony<\/a> is an essential cultural tradition in Japan, and Nara offers several places where you can take part. Here are some suggestions:<\/p>\n

            \n
          1. Nara National Museum<\/strong>: In addition to exhibiting the history and culture of tea in Japan, this museum sometimes organizes tea ceremonies, particularly during special exhibitions, as well as special workshops for children at certain times of the year.<\/li>\n
          2. Kasuga Taisha Shinen Manyo Botanical Garden<\/strong>: Located near the famous Kasuga Taisha Shrine, this botanical garden offers the opportunity to participate in a tea ceremony in magnificent surroundings.<\/li>\n
          3. Jiko-in Temple<\/strong><\/a>: This temple of the Soto Zen sect, located in Yamatokoriyama (a town near Nara), is famous for its tea ceremonies. Reservations are required in advance, but the experience is unforgettable.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

            [\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”294486″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Japanese cuisine in Nara” el_id=”japanese_cuisine_in_nara”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

            Nara isn’t just known for its nature, culture and deer. This ancient city is also famous for its cuisine<\/a>. These include the following specialties<\/a>:<\/p>\n