Today’s Guest
Meet Grohn, a forest giant with moss in his hair and stone-like skin upon his arms. His booming laughter shakes the ground, but his gentle eyes reveal the curiosity of a true traveler.
“They approached without fear. In my homeland, creatures scatter when I appear, but here the sacred deer stared at me calmly, as if to say: ‘You are simply another guest.’ For a giant, that kind of acceptance is rare—and moving.”
Deer Crackers and Wagashi: A Ceremony of Tastes
“Bwah-ha-ha! For me, a whole pack of shika-senbei was just one bite. Still, I gave them to the deer properly—one cracker at a time. Their bows and eager eyes made it feel like a ritual of respect. Later I visited a wagashi shop. Tiny mochi filled with red bean, persimmon-shaped sweets, even kusa-mochi with a green, earthy fragrance. Small in my hands, but each bite tasted like centuries of craft packed into a single moment.”
Traveler’s Voice Points: Feeding Deer Safely
- Buy deer crackers only from official stalls (¥200 for 10 pieces, cash only).
- Keep them hidden after purchase—deer may rush the moment they see them.
- Remove the paper band first so you can hand them smoothly.
- Hold a cracker gently at the edge; let the deer bite, then release right away—never dangle or tease.
- Remember: the deer’s “bow” is not politeness but a demand for food—hesitate and they may nip.
- Children should always feed deer with a guardian beside them.
- When finished, show both palms in the “deer sign” so they understand you’re done.
“These steps keep both travelers and deer safe. Treat them as sacred neighbors, not pets, and you’ll walk away with joy instead of scratches.”
Hidden Corners and Bowing Surprises
“Yes. When I held up a cracker, a deer lowered its head as if bowing. I couldn’t resist—I bowed back! The locals laughed, saying, ‘Even giants bow in Nara.’ Later I discovered that bow wasn’t courtesy at all, but a hungry demand. Bwah-ha-ha! I had been politely saluting a request for snacks. Still, it was the most charming intimidation I’ve ever faced.”
Final Words from the Giant Traveler
“Respect the deer. Offer crackers swiftly, savor wagashi slowly, and allow Nara’s rhythm to calm you. Whether human, elf, or giant, you will be treated the same—welcomed with bows that carry more meaning than meets the eye.”
Summary
Grohn the forest giant’s stroll through Nara reveals its essence: sacred deer who bow for crackers (with hidden intent), wagashi that embody seasonal beauty, and streets where even a giant feels at home. Visitors leave not just with photos, but with harmony woven between species and travelers alike.
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