Where to Meet Deer in Nara Park! Enjoy a Relaxing Time in a Nature-Filled Park

Nara Park is one of the most famous tourist spots in Nara, attracting over 13 million visitors annually. Many people have probably visited at least once, and one of the main highlights of coming to Nara Park is seeing the deer up close and feeding them deer crackers (shika senbei).

If you’re planning to visit, you may be wondering where exactly in the vast Nara Park you can find the most deer and what other sights you shouldn’t miss. While the deer in Nara Park are used to humans, they are still wild animals, so it's important to be cautious when interacting with them.

In this guide, we’ll introduce the best spots to meet deer in Nara Park and provide useful tips to ensure a fun and safe experience.

1. Noborioji Enchi

Among the various spots where you can meet deer in Nara Park, Noborioji Enchi (Noborioji Garden) is the most easily accessible. From the Kintetsu Nara Station, take exit “Nara Park/Todaiji ①~④”, and head straight towards Mount Wakakusa, visible in front of you. Following this direct path will lead you to Noborioji Enchi.

You might even encounter deer along the roadside on your way to the park. Throughout Nara Park, you will see numerous signs warning about deer crossing, and it’s not uncommon to spot them walking along sidewalks and even on roads.

Upon arriving at Noborioji Enchi, you’ll likely see deer sunbathing or leisurely strolling around. Depending on the weather and the day, you may see dozens of deer in this area. Deer crackers (shika senbei) are available for purchase at roadside stalls and small shops within the park, so be sure to try feeding them!

2. Asajigahara Enchi

Asajigahara Enchi (Asajigahara Garden) is one of the best spots in this guide to see a large number of deer. The area is surrounded by plum and cherry blossom trees, offering a lush natural environment that enhances its charm. Compared to other locations, Asajigahara Enchi is less crowded, making it an ideal place for those who want to spend a peaceful time with Nara Park’s deer in a natural setting.
Asajigahara Enchi is a flat and open space, making it perfect for laying down a picnic sheet and taking a break. While deer droppings can be found scattered around, they are small and have little odor, so as long as you bring a disposable picnic sheet, you can comfortably enjoy your time here.

The best time to see cherry blossoms is from late March to early April, while the autumn foliage is at its peak from early November to early December, making these highly recommended seasons to visit.

3. Araike Enchi

Located near Asajigahara Enchi, Araike Enchi is another great place to see wild deer in Nara Park. Here, you’ll find deer resting near the pond or under the trees, offering a more tranquil and serene experience compared to other spots in the park. Since this area is slightly away from the busiest parts of Nara Park, you can quietly observe the deer without crowds.

In areas where deer crackers are frequently sold, the deer tend to be more active and will approach humans in search of food. However, at Araike Enchi, the deer are more relaxed, making it a great spot for visitors who prefer to watch from a distance rather than interact closely. If you want a peaceful, less crowded experience, this is an ideal place to visit.

4. Sarusawaike Enchi

Sarusawaike Enchi (Sarusawa Pond Garden) is surrounded by Kofukuji Temple’s Five-Story Pagoda, restaurants, souvenir shops, and hotels. The reflection of Kofukuji’s Five-Story Pagoda on the pond’s surface creates a stunning scene, making it one of the most picturesque locations in Nara Park. The pond, which is about 360 meters in circumference, is artificial, and it offers beautiful seasonal views during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons, making it a highly recommended spot.

Since it is located near the city center, it is popular among both locals and tourists. While there may not be as many deer here compared to other spots, the sight of deer roaming within such a picturesque setting is truly enchanting.

5. Kasugano Enchi

The final recommended spot in Nara Park to meet deer is Kasugano Enchi (Kasugano Garden), which is one of the best places to see a large number of deer. Kasugano Enchi is located on the way to the famous Todaiji Temple, making it a popular stop for tourists.

While the area is crowded with people, it is also home to countless deer roaming freely, creating an overwhelming yet mesmerizing scene. Many of the deer in Kasugano Enchi are friendly and accustomed to humans. The moment they spot a person with deer crackers, they eagerly approach in search of food.

These deer will stay around until they are full, making Kasugano Enchi a great place for those who want to fully enjoy interacting with them. If you want to experience feeding and being surrounded by deer, this is the perfect spot.

◎ Important Points When Interacting with Deer

In this guide, we have introduced the best places in Nara Park to meet deer. The deer in Nara Park are designated as a national treasure, and harming them in any way is illegal and punishable by fines. Please do not hit, chase, or harass the deer in any manner. Those visiting with small children should be especially cautious.

When feeding the deer with deer crackers, avoid teasing them or delaying feeding just for the sake of taking photos, as this can make the deer agitated and cause them to become aggressive. While they are used to human presence, they are still wild animals, so it is important to be mindful and respectful while interacting with them.

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Where to Meet Deer in Nara Park! Enjoy a Relaxing Time in a Nature-Filled Park