Nara is one of those places that gives a country its soul. Home to beautiful scenery & friendly deer, it’s truly the nature capital of Japan.
Nara is known for its wild yet friendly deer that interact enthusiastically with tourists, particularly when deer crackers are on offer! However, Nara is so much more than just a place to see deer; it’s also home to some of Japan’s most beautiful natural scenery, including thick trees, open grasslands, and breathtaking ponds and lakes.
Deer Galore!
Well, it wouldn’t be a Nara post without giving mention to the deer still.
As it turns out, the deer of Nara have been a protected species for over 1300 years, and living in such peaceful environments away from predators has contributed to their friendly and nonchalant nature.
In spite of this, these deer also possess a fair amount of physical strength, particularly the males, so do take care when feeding them deer crackers!
Stunning Lakes
Throughout Nara, you will find scenic spots such as the Sarusawa Pond or the Tsukigase Lake. What’s more is you’ll often see wild deer walking around and drinking from the ponds, alongside other wildlife such as birds, squirrels, and Japanese raccoon dogs. Walking around the parks surrounding Todaiji Temple can prove to be a worthwhile and “off the beaten track” experience that allows you to truly connect with nature and feel more deeply the timeless beauty of Nara prefecture.
Delicious Restaurants
Of course, Nara is also home to some delicious Japanese restaurants and often features window seats with amazing views.
My buddy and I tried this chicken ramen restaurant, which was delicious, affordable, and an all-around good vibe with super-friendly staff.
Through the window was a spectacular view of Nara Park and the surrounding shops and temples, a sight that just spoke “traditional Japan” into the present moment.
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