Around 1,000 wild sika deer roam freely through Nara Park, protected as sacred messengers of the gods and famous for bowing to visitors. Feeding them special crackers (shika-senbei) is the city’s signature experience — this guide covers how to do it safely and kindly.

🗓️ At a Glance
Location Nara Park (around Todai-ji & Kasuga Taisha)
Hours Always open (deer roam freely)
Cost Free; shika-senbei ¥200/bundle
Time needed 30–60 min
Best time Early morning or late afternoon

How to Feed the Deer

  • Buy shika-senbei (¥200) from licensed vendors only — never give human food, plastic or paper.
  • Hold a cracker up and bow; many deer bow back before eating.
  • Feed quickly once you show the crackers — deer can nudge or nibble clothing if you hesitate.
  • Keep bags closed; deer are known to snatch maps, tickets and snacks.

Safety & Etiquette

  • Deer are wild animals — avoid the antlered males in autumn rut (Sep–Nov) and mothers with fawns (May–Jul).
  • Don’t tease by withholding crackers; it can prompt head-butts.
  • Supervise small children closely around feeding.

Combine Your Visit

Getting There

  • From Kintetsu Nara Station: 5–10 min walk east into the park.
  • From JR Nara Station: 15–20 min walk or short bus.

Tips

Early morning is best — the deer are calmer, the light is soft, and the big temples are near-empty.