According to the legendary history of Kasuga Shrine, a mythological god Takemikazuchi arrived in Nara os a white deer to guard the newly built capital of Heijo-kyo. Since then the deer have been regarded as heavenly animals, protecting the city and the country.
Tame deer roam through the town, especially in Nara Park. Snack vendors sell "shika sembei" (deer biscuits) to visitors so they can feed the deer.
(texto e fotografias: cláudia silva)