Nara Park

Nara Park contains several of the main heritage sites in Nara such as Todai-ji and Kofuku-ji, but the term is used here to cover only the public grassed areas in the centre of Nara. It is here that the 1,200 or so Sika deer roam freely to be fed with crackers by the tourist hordes in the areas surrounding the temples. However, it is also where people go to enjoy pleasant open space, read books, indulge their artistic aspirations, gaze at the view and, of course during cherry blossom season, to have a bit of a party. Perhaps one of the most fascinating bits is on the southern edge where there are a number of traditional hotels including a couple where the rooms are each individual pavilions perched randomly over ponds or on slopes with wonderful views.