Nara Deer Senbei Cracker Experience

Overview

Feeding Nara's sacred sika deer with specially made shika senbei (deer crackers) is one of the most beloved and quintessential visitor experiences in Japan. The deer have learned to bow for crackers, creating a charming and sometimes comical interaction.

Highlights

• Bowing Deer: Nara's deer have learned that bowing leads to cracker rewards. If you bow to them first, many will politely bow back before accepting their treat.
• Cracker Vendors: Shika senbei are sold by vendors throughout Nara Park for ¥200 per bundle (about 10 crackers). They are specially made from rice bran with no additives that could harm the deer.
• Photo Opportunities: The interaction between visitors and deer provides endless charming photo situations, especially with fawns in spring and antlered bucks in autumn.

History

The deer have been considered sacred messengers of the Kasuga shrine deities since 768 AD. The tradition of feeding them is centuries old. The Nara Deer Preservation Foundation oversees their welfare, and the shika senbei business supports local families who have operated the concessions for generations.

Visitor Tips

• Fawn Season: Newborn fawns appear in June and are incredibly cute but should not be touched — their mothers are protective.
• Be Prepared: Once you buy crackers, the deer will follow you persistently. Hold crackers behind your back and distribute them strategically.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.