Vacation in Japan - Nara

One of the famous temples of Nara

Continuing our tour of Japan, my friend Jon takes us to Nara.

In 2010, the city of Nara, Japan celebrated the 1,300th anniversary of its becoming the imperial capital of Japan.

There are eight temples, shrines and ruins in and around Nara which, together with the Kasugayama Primeval Forest, constitute the UNESCO World Heritage site known as the 'Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara",

Sacred Images

The Nara Deer Park in Fall

According to the legend, a mythological god named Takemikazuchi came to Nara riding on a white deer to guard and protect the newly built capital.  Since then, the deer have been regarded as heavenly animals, protecting the city and the country.

Tame Sika Deer roam through the town, especially in Nara Park.  Deer snacks, called shika sembei (deer biscuits) are available from vendors so visitors can feed the deer.

Bonding with nature and the sacred deer

Hanging out with deer like this seems so cool!  What a wonderful thing to be able to do.

Jon in the nearby primeval forest

I love the idea of deer wandering around town.  That seems peaceful and idyllic to me.  Nara looks like a truly beautiful place! 

Thanks for sharing, Jon!