Shika no Tsunokiri is a centuries-old autumn ritual in which Nara’s stags have their antlers safely cut for the community’s safety before rutting season. Held in an arena beside Kasuga Taisha, deer are caught by seko handlers and the antlers removed by a Shinto priest — a uniquely Nara spectacle.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Roku-en, beside Kasuga Taisha, Nara |
| Dates | Weekends & holidays in October |
| Admission | ~¥1,000 (arena seating) |
| Time needed | 1 hour |
| Best time | October (check the year’s schedule) |
What to Know
- Stags' antlers are cut each autumn for public safety before the rut.
- Skilled seko handlers catch the deer with ropes in an arena.
- A Shinto priest removes the antlers; the deer are unharmed.
- Held on October weekends/holidays — a rare traditional spectacle.
Combine Your Visit
- Meet the deer any time — Nara Park deer guide .
- Visit the neighbouring shrine — Kasuga Taisha guide .
- More seasonal events in our Nara events guide .
Getting There
- From Kintetsu Nara Station: ~25 min walk through Nara Park toward Kasuga Taisha.
- By bus: to Kasuga Taisha area, then a short walk to Roku-en.
Tips
Dates fall on October weekends and holidays and vary yearly — check the current schedule and buy arena tickets on arrival.
