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Nara Park is a 1,300-acre (502 hectare) public park in the old city of Nara, Japan. It is home to some 1,200 wild Spotted Deer (also called Sika Deer or Japanese Deer, scientific name: Cervus nippon) that roam the park freely.
There are several important historical temples located around or within Nara Park. Among those which you should not miss include the Todai-ji Temple and Kofuku-ji Temple. The Kasuga Shrine and Nara National Museum are also located at Nara Park.
Deer under the cherry blossoms, Nara Park (31 March, 2007)
© Timothy Tye using this photo
In the days of old, the deer of Nara Park were considered sacred. Right until 1637, killing any of these deer is a capital offense punishable by death. It was only after World War II that the deer were stripped of their divine status, and were instead designated as National Treasures.
It is not advisable to touch any of them, though they may appear so tame, as their bodies may harbor parasites that could be harmful to us. It is however fine to feed them - there are stalls selling deer snacks within the grounds. Do not feed them anything else to avoid upsetting their system.
Return to My Nara Travel Guide
Return to Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara
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