Wakakusayama Hill — Attraction in Nara

Hill is a great little secret at the back of Nara park. There is a lower section and upper section. We went in June to watch the sunset and the lower section was decently busy, but not packed out. Plenty of deer (and deer poop) about.

Really great atmosphere and beautiful views over the city, especially with the deer just chilling in the golden hour light.

Its only 150 yen to enter but the 2 entry gates on the sides close at 5pm which is an issue when in summer, the sunsets are at 7pm and you can see plenty of people still in the park.

The central exit turnstyles aren't manned after the entry gate closes though and the deer do pass in and out freely so do with that info what you will.

(They'd be better off with an honesty box...

For those who visited Nara Park, they should visit this place as well.

The entrance fee is definitely one of the cheapest during my whole Japan trip (150 Yen per pax)! Even without climbing to top, the slope at the entrance there is already a perfect spot for relaxation and sunset watching.

We decided to go to the top, once we get pass the first round of stairs to the first checkpoint, it becomes easier to walk around.

Definitely bring some deer foods to the top as there are less people feeding there, and they are eager for your food!

There seems to have no toilet in between, only at entrance and top of hills, and there is no shop around, make sure to bring some waters with you.

The scene on top definitely worth the...

Wakakusayama Hill, also known as Mount Wakakusa, is a scenic, grass-covered hill in Nara, Japan, renowned for its panoramic views of the city and its annual Yamayaki festival where the mountain's dead grass is set ablaze, accompanied by fireworks. This striking festival, visible from various spots around Nara including the Heijo Palace, symbolizes renewal and the coming of spring. The hill, situated between the historic Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Shrine, is a popular hiking spot, especially beautiful in spring with its cherry blossoms. Visitors to Wakakusayama are often delighted by the sight of deer roaming freely, adding to the tranquil and picturesque setting of this...