Nara's Todaiji Temple: A spiritual haven for a leisurely encounter with deer
by 悦冬
Aug 19, 2025
【Introduction】: The moment the little deer bowed and melted my heart, I was completely charmed! This ancient city is more lively and interesting than I imagined. This one-day tour guide will help you explore Nara~
⛺【How to Enjoy】:
🌳 Nara Park Strolling Guide
• Cute Deer Interaction: Buy deer crackers (200 yen/bundle) and instantly become the popular one! Remember to hide the crackers well, the deer will chase after you~ Look for deer that are alone as they are more docile. When surrounded by a group, raise your hand and say "nai" (no), and they will understand!
• Todai-ji Temple: The world's largest wooden building is truly impressive! Under the pillars inside the Great Buddha Hall, there is a "Buddha's nostril" hole; crawling through it brings blessings~
• Wakakusa-yama: Highly recommended! Climbing after 4 PM offers stunning views. The rolling hillside looks like the Windows desktop, and the panoramic view of Nara from the summit is amazing.
🎑 In-depth Cultural Experience
• Kasuga Taisha Shrine: 3,000 stone lanterns create a strong sense of ceremony. Lighting them at dawn or dusk feels like traveling through a thousand years. Remember to touch the nose of the white bronze deer statue for good luck!
• Tōshōdai-ji Temple: Built by the monk Ganjin himself, it is especially serene and peaceful, far from the hustle and bustle. Sitting by the lotus pond and daydreaming is very healing.
• Naramachi: A fantastic old town to explore! Cafés and shops converted from lattice-windowed traditional houses are full of charm. Highly recommend the freshly made mugwort mochi at "Nakatanidō."
🍡 Must-Eat List in Nara
✔ Kaki-no-ha Sushi: Pressed sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves with a unique fragrance; mackerel flavor is the classic choice.
✔ Great Buddha Pudding: Both visually and taste-wise perfect! Recommended classic custard flavor; take the pudding jar home as a souvenir.
✔ Mendōan: A specialty shop for tofu skin udon; the lucky bag udon is super cute, and the broth is incredibly flavorful.
✔ Hiraso: The originator of kaki-no-ha sushi; locals come here to buy souvenirs.
📸 Photo Spots
• Ukimido Pavilion: A hexagonal pavilion on the water with a fairy-like atmosphere, looking like it’s floating in the morning mist.
• Sarusawa Pond: The perfect spot to photograph the five-story pagoda, with reflections as beautiful as a painting.
• Himuro Shrine: A dreamy combination of cherry blossoms and deer in spring, a Nara-exclusive scene.
🧡【Tips】:
• Kintetsu Nara Station is closer to the attractions than JR Station.
• Wear shoes that can get dirty! Deer droppings are everywhere.
• Avoid wearing light-colored clothes; be careful of deer nibbling on your hems.
• Wakakusa-yama is closed every year from December to March.
Post by SophiaParrish32 | Oct 20, 2025























