Deer Diary, I love Nara, Japan
Nara is an easy day trip from Osaka or Kyoto and offers the perfect blend of wildlife (read: deer) and history (read: Buddhist Temples). Here's how to make the most of your visit:
This is what we look like riding bikes
The best way to get around is on bikes. We rented from Nara Bicycle Rental but there seemed to be a number of reputable options. Also, we opted for manual bikes (because are so fit and athletic) but e-bikes are available as well. Now that you’ve secured your bikes it’s a short ride to the Deer Park!
The park has loads of gardens and temples, but honestly we were there to see the adorable deer that roam all over the park. The deer are very friendly and have learned to bow to earn treats. It works. How the deer aren’t obese is a mystery.
A sign warning about unruly deer behavior
A few notes about the deer:
Buy official deer biscuits (no random snacks!) at the park and you’ll have no shortage of woodland friends.
They are extremely friendly and will approach you if you seem to have biscuits.
There are signs warning of headbutts and kicking but we saw none of this. Worst case they may nudge you gently or, they may swarm you but, they are only a little aggressive.
Be careful if you have biscuits left on your bike or in your pocket. The deer will find them and they will pursue you, or your bike, to eat them.
A bit about the park:
Check out Kofukuji Temple's 5-storied pagoda (Japan's second-tallest!).
I don’t recommend a particular route as the entire park is scenic. There are shrines, temples, gardens and even a small lake throughout the park that are worth a visit.
Pro Tip | There are vending machines throughout the park if you need a water. Be prepared - if you don’t choose carefully you could end up with unexpected flavors like yogurt water. It’s not a great option on a hot day.
After our wholesome park excursion we biked back into town to the Harushika Sake Brewery for a tasting (six sakes with pickled pairings). Highly recommend. Also the town is quite cute if you have a little time to explore.
Pro Tip | They specifically request that you not bike after your tasting. We agreed to walk our bikes back to the rental place, which was only a few blocks away. Whether we did or not is something I will not disclose here.
#195Postcards
