Kasugano-enchi Lawn
A serene, expansive lawn in Nara Park, famous for its free-roaming sacred deer and picturesque views of historic temples.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm, serene, and fewer crowds
Kasugano-enchi Lawn
Best Time
Calm, serene, and fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene, expansive lawn in Nara Park, famous for its free-roaming sacred deer and picturesque views of historic temples.
"The vast ocean of green grass was very calming at 9:00 am in the morning. Then add the many deers that lay around basking in the warm sun it adds flutters in my heart."
🦌 Gentle Deer Etiquette
Observe deer from a distance. If you choose to feed them, use only official deer crackers.
🚶♀️ Early Bird Gets the Calm
Visit before 9 AM for a truly tranquil experience with fewer people and more deer.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Great Lawn
Central Kasugano-enchi
A vast, serene ocean of green grass offering panoramic views and a peaceful retreat.
Sacred Deer Encounters
Throughout Kasugano-enchi
Observe and interact respectfully with Nara's famous free-roaming deer, considered sacred messengers.
Temple Vistas
Overlooking the lawn
Enjoy breathtaking views of Todai-ji Temple and Kofuku-ji Temple's pagoda.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Deer
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🦌 Gentle Deer Etiquette
Observe deer from a distance. If you choose to feed them, use only official deer crackers.
🚶♀️ Early Bird Gets the Calm
Visit before 9 AM for a truly tranquil experience with fewer people and more deer.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The open field offers amazing panoramic shots, especially with deer in the foreground.
🧺 Picnic Perfect Spot
Bring a blanket and enjoy a peaceful picnic on the grass, soaking in the views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🦌 Gentle Deer Etiquette
Observe deer from a distance. If you choose to feed them, use only official deer crackers.
🚶♀️ Early Bird Gets the Calm
Visit before 9 AM for a truly tranquil experience with fewer people and more deer.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The open field offers amazing panoramic shots, especially with deer in the foreground.
🧺 Picnic Perfect Spot
Bring a blanket and enjoy a peaceful picnic on the grass, soaking in the views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the serene beauty of Kasugano-enchi Lawn, highlighting its vast green expanse and the calming presence of the free-roaming deer. The panoramic views of historic temples are also a major draw, making it a peaceful retreat. Some caution is advised regarding interactions with the deer, emphasizing respectful behavior.
"This park is lovely! Very calm and lots of deer in the area. Be gentle with the deer!"
Gabe Agnew
"Kasuganoenchi (春日野園地) is a beautiful open park located in Nara Park, Japan. It is a vast grassy field situated near the base of Mt. Wakakusa and is known for its scenic views, seasonal beauty, and connection to Nara’s rich cultural heritage.
One of the highlights of Kasuganoenchi is its panoramic view of Nara’s historic landmarks. Visitors can enjoy sights of Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha, as well as the Five-Story Pagoda of Kofuku-ji Temple. The park is also famous for its free-roaming deer, which are considered sacred messengers of the gods in Shinto belief. Tourists often feed them shika senbei (deer crackers), a popular activity in Nara Park.
Throughout the year, Kasuganoenchi hosts various events and festivals. One of the most famous is the Nara Tokae Lantern Festival, where thousands of lanterns illuminate the park, creating a magical evening atmosphere. Another major event is the Wakakusa Yamayaki Festival, during which the grass on Mt. Wakakusa is set on fire in a spectacular tradition.
Kasuganoenchi is also an excellent spot for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) in spring and autumn leaf viewing in the fall. With its open space, scenic views, and cultural significance, it remains a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of historic Nara."
HANS XIA
"The vast ocean of green grass was very calming at 9:00 am in the morning. Then add the many deers that lay around basking in the warm sun it adds flutters in my heart. There are benches around so take a sit and absorb the area and sometimes the deers would even go to you.
Take a panoramic view of this space because its amazing!"
Benjamin De Leon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kasugano-enchi is easily accessible within Nara Park. From JR Nara Station or Kintetsu Nara Station, it's a pleasant walk (about 15-20 minutes) through the park, where you'll encounter many deer along the way. You can also take a local bus to the 'Nara Park' or 'Kofuku-ji' bus stop and walk from there.
Yes, there are several parking lots available within Nara Park, including near Todai-ji Temple and Kofuku-ji Temple. However, parking can be busy, especially during peak seasons. Consider public transport if possible.
Absolutely! Kasugano-enchi is located just a short walk from Todai-ji Temple. It's a scenic stroll through the park, often accompanied by deer.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Kasugano-enchi Lawn is part of Nara Park and is free to enter. You only pay for optional activities like purchasing deer crackers.
Kasugano-enchi is an open park and is accessible at all times. However, for the best experience and safety, it's recommended to visit during daylight hours.
Yes, you can typically purchase deer crackers from vendors located around Nara Park, including near Kasugano-enchi. Be aware that deer can be quite persistent when they see the crackers.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire lawn offers fantastic photo opportunities. Try capturing the vast green expanse with deer grazing, or frame the distant temples against the open sky. Early morning light is particularly beautiful.
You can take photos of the deer, but be mindful of their space. If you're feeding them, they might come close, offering great photo ops. However, avoid chasing or startling them.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on photography in Kasugano-enchi itself. However, always be respectful of other visitors and the wildlife.
🎫 🦌 Deer Interaction
While generally docile, the deer are wild animals. They can become aggressive if they feel threatened or are competing for food. It's best to maintain a respectful distance and avoid sudden movements.
If a deer approaches, remain calm. If you have deer crackers, you can offer one gently. If you don't have crackers, slowly back away. Avoid making direct eye contact for too long, as it can be perceived as a challenge.
It's generally advised not to pet the deer. They are wild animals, and petting can sometimes agitate them or lead to unwanted attention. Focus on observing and photographing them from a safe distance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing a picnic blanket for a relaxed family meal on the grass. The park is relatively flat and easy to navigate, making it stroller-friendly. While there aren't specific playgrounds, the natural environment and the presence of deer offer plenty of entertainment. Visiting in the morning can help avoid the midday heat and larger crowds, making the experience more enjoyable for younger children.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
It's a place where you can simply sit, observe, and absorb the natural beauty and the unique cultural significance of the freely roaming deer. The lack of overt tourist attractions within the lawn itself means you can escape the hustle and bustle and find a moment of calm amidst your travels. The scenic views of the surrounding temples also add to the contemplative ambiance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sacred Deer of Nara
Interacting with the deer is a highlight for many visitors. Seeing them gracefully graze on the expansive lawn or curiously approach people is a unique experience. Many travelers find the deer to be a calming presence, adding to the serene atmosphere of the park. However, it's important to heed warnings and avoid feeding them anything other than the designated crackers, as human food can be harmful to their health.
Seasonal Beauty and Events
Beyond the natural beauty, Kasugano-enchi is a venue for significant cultural events. The Nara Tokae Lantern Festival, held in August, illuminates the park with thousands of lanterns, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere. Another spectacular event is the Wakakusa Yamayaki Festival in January, where the grass on the adjacent Mt. Wakakusa is set ablaze in a controlled fire, a tradition dating back centuries. These events draw large crowds but offer unforgettable experiences.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit