[奈良] Nara: Hike Mt. Wakakusa and Encounter Wild, Free-Roaming Deer

• This tour offers a rare chance to experience Nara not just as a city of temples, but as a place where sacred wildlife and ancient tradition coexist. You’ll walk alongside Nara’s iconic deer—not just in tourist-packed parks, but in the peaceful hillside where they truly live.
• Unlike standard sightseeing, this guided hike follows the deer’s daily rhythm. Starting from the serene Himuro Shrine, you'll pass through deer-filled Nara Park and climb the grassy trails of Mount Wakakusa, a sacred hill where the deer retreat each evening. Along the way, your guide will share insights into the animals’ spiritual role, local rituals like the annual mountain burning, and how the deer “commute” between the city and the wild.
• With close-up encounters with wild deer, fresh mountain air, and panoramic views from the summit, this tour is perfect for travelers seeking a deeper, more authentic connection with Nara’s nature, culture, and living traditions.

Located in the heart of Nara City, Nara Park is a vast green space where over a thousand deer wander freely among temples, museums, and tree-lined paths. Considered sacred messengers of the gods, these gentle creatures have been protected for centuries and are deeply woven into the city’s spiritual heritage. Visitors can interact with the deer, feed them special rice crackers (shika senbei), and enjoy their curious, often bowing behavior. The park is also home to iconic landmarks like Tōdaiji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine, making it both a cultural and natural highlight of any Nara visit.