Nara Park

SPOT

NaraNara City

Nara Park

A vast park on the east side of Nara city. Home to wild deer designated a national natural monument and adjoining the World Heritage sites of Todai-ji, Kofuku-ji, and Kasuga Taisha, it is a leading Japanese sightseeing spot where history and nature are in harmony.

ABOUT

About this spot

Nara Park, spanning roughly 660 hectares, is a one-of-a-kind place where history, culture and nature can all be enjoyed at once. Its greatest feature is the roughly 1,700 wild deer, designated a national natural monument. Feeding the friendly deer "shika senbei" (deer crackers) is popular with all ages, from children to adults. World Heritage sites are scattered throughout the park, including Todaiji, home to the Great Buddha Hall, the world's largest wooden building; Kofukuji, symbolized by its five-story pagoda; and the mystical Kasuga Taisha, so there is no shortage of places for a historical stroll. In spring, beautiful cherry blossoms, selected among Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots, bloom in profusion, and in autumn Chinese tallow trees and maples put on a brilliant display of color, so the park shows a different face in every season. Whether you are having a weekend picnic with family, collecting shrine seals with friends, or quietly strolling through nature alone, you will find something new on every visit. Within walking distance of Kintetsu Nara Station, it is also easy to reach, making it a must-visit base for sightseeing in Nara.

Last updated March 28, 2026

Share this spot

NEARBY

Nearby recommendations

More places worth visiting in the area.

MORE TO EXPLORE

More from Nara

Discover more of the same region on our sister sites.