Famous souvenirs in Nara prefecture

Introduction

Nara Prefecture, famous for its historical temples, ancient landmarks, and friendly deer, offers a range of unique souvenirs that reflect its cultural heritage and natural beauty. Here are five top recommendations for souvenirs from Nara, each with a special charm, distinctive features, and varying price ranges.

1. Nara Deer Cookies (Shika Senbei)

Nara is famous for its friendly deer that freely roam Nara Park, and visitors often feed them specially made “deer cookies” known as Shika Senbei. While these cookies are specifically made for the deer, souvenir versions for people are available as well. They make for a fun and symbolic keepsake of Nara’s iconic deer population.

・Characteristics:
The edible souvenir version for humans is slightly sweet, usually shaped like a deer or stamped with cute deer images. These cookies make for a memorable souvenir that represents the charming deer of Nara.
・Price:
Around 500 to 800 yen (about $3.50 to $5.50 USD) per package. You can find them at souvenir shops near Nara Park and popular tourist areas.

2. Nara Uchiwa Fans

Traditional uchiwa fans from Nara are popular souvenirs due to their beautiful designs and practical use, especially during the hot summer months. These fans are handcrafted using traditional techniques, and they often feature designs inspired by Nara’s temples, deer, and nature.

・Characteristics:
Nara uchiwa fans are lightweight, durable, and showcase intricate patterns and designs that highlight Nara’s cultural icons. They make wonderful decorative items and are also practical for staying cool in warmer weather.
・Price:
Ranges from 1,000 to 3,000 yen (about $7 to $20 USD) depending on the craftsmanship and design. Uchiwa fans are available at traditional craft stores and souvenir shops throughout Nara.

3. Yamato Cha (Nara Green Tea)

Nara’s Yamato region is known for producing high-quality green tea. Yamato Cha (Yamato green tea) is highly regarded for its rich flavor, which is slightly earthy with a smooth finish. As a gift or souvenir, Yamato Cha offers a taste of Nara’s natural heritage and long-standing tea culture.

・Characteristics:
Yamato Cha has a distinct taste that reflects the high quality of the tea leaves grown in the area. The tea is often enjoyed for its refreshing and soothing qualities and is popular among tea enthusiasts.
・Price:
Approximately 500 to 1,500 yen (about $3.50 to $10 USD) for a small packet. You can find Yamato Cha at tea shops, local markets, and souvenir stores around Nara.

4. Kakinoha Sushi

Kakinoha Sushi, or “persimmon leaf sushi,” is a traditional delicacy in Nara. This unique sushi is made by wrapping bite-sized pieces of mackerel or salmon sushi in persimmon leaves. The leaves add a subtle fragrance and act as a natural preservative, allowing the sushi to stay fresh longer. While it’s a perishable item, some stores offer vacuum-sealed versions for gifting.

・Characteristics:
The sushi has a subtle, refreshing flavor thanks to the persimmon leaf wrapping. It’s often mildly seasoned and is enjoyed as a traditional regional food. This sushi is popular with locals and visitors alike and offers a unique taste of Nara.
・Price:
A small pack of Kakinoha Sushi usually costs around 600 to 1,000 yen (about $4 to $7 USD). Fresh versions are available at local markets, while vacuum-sealed packs can be found at specialty stores.

5. Nara Sarashi (Traditional Cloth)

Nara Sarashi is a traditional fabric made from hemp that dates back over a thousand years. Known for its smooth texture and durability, it was originally used for summer clothing but is now popular for items like coasters, napkins, and towels. This handcrafted fabric makes for a sophisticated, cultural souvenir that highlights Nara’s textile heritage.

・Characteristics:
Nara Sarashi is a smooth, lightweight fabric with a slightly crisp texture. It often features simple, elegant designs and is appreciated for its versatility and natural look. It makes a wonderful gift for those interested in Japanese crafts and textiles.
・Price:
Small items, such as hand towels or coasters, start around 500 to 1,500 yen (about $3.50 to $10 USD), while larger items like scarves may cost up to 3,000 yen (about $20 USD). Nara Sarashi can be found at traditional craft shops and select souvenir stores in Nara.