Nara — Deer & Tōdai-ji★★★
Nara was Japan's first permanent capital (710–784) and today is a perfect day trip from Kyoto (45 min. by train, ¥720). The main attraction: Over 1,200 semi-tame Sika deer roaming freely through Nara Park and the temple grounds — they are protected as "messengers of the gods" and can be fed with special deer crackers (Shika Senbei, ¥200).
At the heart of the park stands the Tōdai-ji (東大寺, Great Eastern Temple) — a colossus of architecture. The main hall (Daibutsuden) is the largest wooden building in the world, and inside sits the Great Buddha (Daibutsu): A 15-meter-high, 500-ton bronze statue from the 8th century. The sheer size is overwhelming — photos cannot capture the dimensions.
Behind the Daibutsu, there is a pillar with a hole the size of a nostril of the Buddha statue. Crawling through it guarantees enlightenment in the next life — the queue for it is long but entertaining to watch.
Other highlights in Nara:
- Kasuga-Taisha: Shinto shrine with over 3,000 stone and bronze lanterns — all lit simultaneously in February and August (Mantoro Festival). UNESCO World Heritage.
- Kōfuku-ji: Temple with a five-story pagoda (50 m) — Nara's landmark, especially photogenic at night.
- Naramachi: Old town district with traditional Machiya houses, sake breweries, and cozy cafés.
💡 Tipp
The deer in Nara are cute but cheeky! They actually bow when you bow — but they can also nibble and nudge, especially if you have Senbei crackers in your hand. Keep bags closed and do not hold maps or tickets open, the deer eat anything made of paper.
Achtung
The deer are wild animals and can bite or kick, especially during the rutting season (October). Do not leave small children alone with the deer. Buy deer crackers only at official stands (¥200) — other food harms the animals.
