• Ukimido - Nestled beside a tranquil pond in Nara Park, Ukimidō, known as the “floating pavilion,” provides a peaceful retreat. This graceful hexagonal pavilion seems to float on the water’s surface, surrounded by serene landscapes and frequently visited by deer wandering nearby. In the gentle morning light or misty afternoons, the pavilion and its mirror-like reflections create a calm, almost dreamlike ambiance. It is a cherished hidden gem for photographers, walkers, and those seeking a peaceful escape just minutes from Nara’s main attractions.
• Tobihino - Situated between the sacred woods of Kasugayama and the open lawns of Nara Park, Tobihino is a wide, grassy field where deer often gather at dawn and dusk. Historically, it served as a ceremonial clearing, and today it remains a quiet transition space between the wild and the urban. In the early morning, with mist hanging low and deer moving slowly across the field, Tobihino feels like a threshold between worlds. For many, it’s the perfect place to witness Nara’s unique blend of nature, tradition, and quiet spirituality.
• Kasuga Grand Shrine - Established over 1,300 years ago, Kasuga Taisha is one of Japan’s most important Shinto shrines, renowned for its vibrant vermillion gates, hundreds of bronze and stone lanterns, and its profound connection to the surrounding sacred forest. The shrine is located at the base of Mount Kasuga and has long been a spiritual hub, deeply rooted in nature worship and ancient ritual.

The deer that roam freely throughout Nara are traditionally regarded as sacred messengers of the gods enshrined here. According to legend, one of the deities of Kasuga Taisha traveled from what is now Chiba Prefecture riding a white deer—an image that gave rise to the reverence for deer seen throughout the city today.

Visiting Kasuga Taisha in the early morning, before the crowds arrive, offers a rare sense of stillness. As you walk the lantern-lined paths through the forest, accompanied only by drifting mist and the quiet presence of deer, you’ll feel the spiritual hush that has drawn pilgrims here for centuries.

• Guided early morning tour of Nara
• Local expert guide

• Entry to the Great Buddha Hall

This experience is more than just a stroll—it’s an exploration of the hidden rhythms of Nara’s revered deer.

While most tourists see Nara’s deer around bustling temples, this tour delves deeper: into the tranquil slopes of Mount Wakakusa, where the deer retreat each evening. Recent research indicates that these creatures actually “commute” between human-populated areas and their natural habitat. This tour traces their journey.

Beginning at Himuro Shrine, participants will traverse deer-populated Nara Park and ascend the gentle paths of Mount Wakakusa, a sacred hill that is burned each spring in a ritual to keep its grass short—ideal for grazing and walking. The knowledgeable guide will provide insights into the spiritual connection between the deer, the land, and local customs.

The reward? Intimate encounters with wild deer, refreshing mountain air, and panoramic views over Nara’s temples from the summit. Away from the crowds, this offers a unique and peaceful way to experience the authentic spirit of Nara.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.