 |
 |
|
Nara Deer Park, Japan |
@shinshin405 |
| Deerly Beloved |
| Far and away the city’s best, most essential stop is the Deer Park, which more than lives up to its nickname. Over a thousand Sika deer roam the grounds freely. Local folklore tells of a deity who appeared on nearby Mount Mikasa riding a white deer; the animals were considered sacred until shortly after World War II, and are still considered natural treasures with protected status. Vendors in the park sell sika senbei (rice crackers) to feed the tame creatures, some of whom have learned to bow before receiving their treat. It’s a magical, one-of-a-kind experience, but be forewarned — some deer have been known to seek out their snacks a bit aggressively. |
|
 |
|
Kasuga Grand Shrine | @alexandr_frolov_78 |
| A Dozen Deities |
| That deity who appeared on Mount Mikasa? His name was Takemikazuchi, and he’s one of the four gods to whom Kasuga-taisha is dedicated. (There are also 12 smaller shrines for gods who bring good luck.) Kasuga-taisha, along with nearby Kasugayama Primeval Forest, is part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara, one of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You’ll pass through the deer park to reach it, and once there you’ll encounter one of the most sacred sites in Japan. It’s a tranquil, beautiful place that’s ideal for quiet contemplation in the middle of a busy day. |
|
 |
| Nara-Machi |
@wouterj85 |
| The Sweet Spot |
| Going to Nara and not visiting its revered old-town neighborhood isn’t as bad as foregoing a deer encounter, but it’s close. It’s here in Naramachi that you’ll find Japan’s oldest Buddhist temple (Gangoji), a traditional wagashi sweet shop that first opened its doors in 1913 (Nakanishi Yosaburo), a sake brewery that’s even older (Harushika), and even a mechanical-toy museum. For all that, it's also a charming, low-key place to walk around — are you sensing a theme here? |
|
 |
|
Yoshikien Garden |
@nara_venture |
| More Than Garden-Variety |
| Named in honor of the adjacent Yoshikigawa River, Yoshikien is actually three gardens in one: one centered around a pond, another abounding in camellias, and a moss garden featuring a ceremonial tea house. Entry is free, meaning you can mosey into this serene getaway whenever you’d like for as long as you’d like. (If you’re hoping for even more garden action, avail yourself of the neighboring Isuien as well.) |
|
 |
| @alyssa.ngyn |
|
|
| "Visiting Mt. Yoshino was one of my most memorable experiences in Japan, especially during cherry blossom season. You can see an endless sea of pinks and greens from the trees! There were so many cute shops, restaurants, and temples to visit while you’re there as well."
|
|
|
| |
|
