Before Kyoto and Tokyo, Nara was the first permanent capital of Japan, established in 710 AD. Today, Nara is a city of profound historical significance, where ancient wooden temples stand amidst lush parklands populated by hundreds of free-roaming deer.
The Bowing Deer of Nara Park
According to local Shinto legend, deer were considered divine messengers of the gods. Today, over a thousand deer roam freely through Nara Park. These intelligent animals have learned to bow to visitors in exchange for *shika senbei* (deer crackers). Interacting with these gentle creatures in the park's tranquil, wooded pathways is a unique and heartwarming experience.
Todai-ji: A Marvel of Ancient Engineering
No visit to Nara be complete without stepping inside Todai-ji (Eastern Great Temple), one of the world's largest wooden buildings. The temple houses the Daibutsu (Great Buddha), a colossal bronze statue of Buddha standing at 15 meters tall. Stepping into the massive wooden hall and standing before this ancient masterpiece is a humbling reminder of Japan's deep spiritual heritage.
Nara Travel Highlights
- Purchase Official Crackers: Only feed the deer the approved *shika senbei* sold by local vendors in the park.
- Explore Beyond the Park: Walk up to Kasuga Taisha, Nara's most celebrated Shinto shrine, famous for its hundreds of bronze and stone lanterns.
- Try Kaki-no-ha Sushi: Sample this local delicacy of sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves, which has a distinct, traditional preservation history.
