Wakakusa Driveway Lookout
Ascend Mount Wakakusa for breathtaking panoramic views of Nara city, especially magical at sunset, with friendly deer companions along the way.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic & deer sightings
Wakakusa Driveway Lookout
Best Time
Golden hour magic & deer sightings
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend Mount Wakakusa for breathtaking panoramic views of Nara city, especially magical at sunset, with friendly deer companions along the way.
"The views are amazing, so definitely worth the climb!"
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
The climb is steep! Good footwear is essential for a comfortable and safe ascent.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled for the hike. Vending machines are available at the base.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic City Views
Summit of Mount Wakakusa
Breathtaking vistas of Nara city, especially magical during sunset. A truly rewarding sight after the climb.
Deer Encounters
Slopes of Mount Wakakusa
Wander alongside friendly deer as you ascend. A quintessential Nara experience that adds charm to the hike.
Golden Hour Ambiance
Mount Wakakusa slopes
Experience a serene atmosphere as the sun sets, casting a warm glow over the landscape and the grazing deer.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Steep Climb Ahead!
Timing is Key for Views & Deer
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
The climb is steep! Good footwear is essential for a comfortable and safe ascent.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled for the hike. Vending machines are available at the base.
⏰ Check Gate Closing Times
Entrance gates close at 5 PM. Plan your visit accordingly for sunset views.
💰 Small Entrance Fee
A modest ¥150 fee grants access to this beautiful viewpoint.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
The climb is steep! Good footwear is essential for a comfortable and safe ascent.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled for the hike. Vending machines are available at the base.
⏰ Check Gate Closing Times
Entrance gates close at 5 PM. Plan your visit accordingly for sunset views.
💰 Small Entrance Fee
A modest ¥150 fee grants access to this beautiful viewpoint.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The panoramic views are incredible, perfect for photos, especially during sunset.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking panoramic views from Wakakusa Driveway Lookout, especially during sunset, and the charming presence of Nara's deer. However, the steep climb can be a significant challenge for some, and visiting during peak summer heat might mean fewer deer sightings.
"Wonderful scenic spot at the rear end of Nara park. You don't want to miss this if you've already come all the way to Nara. But be warned it's quite a steep climb up all the way to the top, so maybe not ideal for those traveling with elderly people or kids.
The views are amazing, so definitely worth the climb, but we came during peak summer, so it was extremely hot under the scorching sun and no deer in sight as they wandered to cooler and shaded parts of the park. On the plus side, we were the only ones at the top, so we had the hilltop all to ourselves ✨
Take note that they open only after 9am and 150¥ entrance fee for adults."
Alexander Aaltonen
"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 post-gate hours)"
Benjamin Cotterill
"If you go into Nara Park getting up here is sort of a must. View is great as is the constant breeze. There are a few ways to get there, including by car from around the back...where in the parking lot you'll find lots of refreshing vending machines if you climbed the actual thing from the front and are scorched."
Samuel Laub
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach the base of Mount Wakakusa by walking from Nara Park. For those driving, there's a parking lot around the back of the hill. The main entrance is the 'Mount Wakakusa base North Gate'.
Yes, there's a parking lot accessible from the rear of the hill, which can be convenient if you've already climbed from the front.
The most common way is to walk up from the base, which takes about 20-40 minutes depending on your pace.
Wakakusa Driveway Lookout is located within Nara Park, which is accessible by bus from Nara Station. From the park, it's a walk to the base of the hill.
From Nara Station, you can walk to Nara Park and then proceed to the base of Mount Wakakusa. It's a pleasant walk through the park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a small entrance fee of ¥150 for adults to access the Mount Wakakusa area.
The area generally opens after 9 AM. However, the entrance gates on the sides close at 5 PM, which is important to note for sunset viewing.
While the main gates close at 5 PM, the central exit turnstiles may remain accessible, and deer can pass freely.
No, tickets are typically purchased on-site at the entrance gate. Booking in advance is not usually required.
Information on specific discounts is not widely available, but the entrance fee is quite low, making it affordable for most visitors.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The climb is quite steep and can be challenging for some. It's recommended to wear comfortable shoes and take your time.
Yes, you'll likely encounter many deer roaming the slopes, especially in the late afternoon.
Late afternoon for sunset views is highly recommended. The golden hour light creates a magical atmosphere.
Restroom facilities are located near the main entrance where you purchase your ticket.
Due to the steep climb, it may not be ideal for the elderly or very young children. Consider the physical demands before visiting.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The panoramic city views, especially during sunset, are spectacular. Capturing the deer against the landscape is also a popular choice.
Late afternoon, during the golden hour, offers the most beautiful light for photography.
A tripod can be helpful for capturing stable shots during sunset, especially if you plan to stay after dark, though be mindful of other visitors.
The summit offers the most expansive views. As you climb, there are also various points with lovely perspectives of the city and park.
For sunset, consider using a wider aperture for a shallow depth of field or a narrower aperture for a larger depth of field to capture both foreground and background. Experiment with exposure compensation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Lovers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ascent: A Rewarding Climb
Along the way, you'll share the path with Nara's famous deer, adding a unique charm to your hike. These gentle creatures often graze on the grassy slopes, providing delightful photo opportunities. The path is generally well-defined, making it easy to navigate. For those who prefer to avoid the climb, there is an alternative route by car that leads to a parking lot closer to the top, offering a more accessible option.
Sunset Spectacle and Deer Companions
During the late afternoon, the slopes of Mount Wakakusa become a gathering place for numerous deer. They often graze peacefully, seemingly unfazed by the visitors. This creates a picturesque scene, blending the natural beauty of the landscape with the iconic wildlife of Nara. While deer are present year-round, they might seek cooler, shaded areas during the peak heat of summer.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit