Oh, deer! Life in tourist town disrupted for all except the animals

A deer walks across a pedestrian crossing in Nara, Japan. More than 1000 deer roam free in the ancient capital city. The town's tourism has declined because of the coronavirus. Photos / AP

A young boy rides his bike past a deer wandering around the shopping area.

Tours are cancelled. Restaurants are empty. And centuries-old temples are quieter than usual in the ancient capital city of Japan, hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic.

All of Nara is suffering with its Unesco World Heritage Site-listed temples shut as Japan fights the virus.

All except the deer. The daily life of the town's treasured animal remains virtually unchanged.

A deer cuddles with a tourist at Kofukuji temple in Nara.

While most deer stay within the boundaries of their grassy park, some wander off to gift shops and restaurants across the street from the park. The deer have the right of way, and drivers honour it.

Fewer tourists only means a bit more competition for the sugar-free treats or "deer crackers," which are mostly made of wheat flour.

Deer gather outside a souvenir shop looking for treats.

A stack of crackers runs out fast when a dozen deer swarm around a generous feeder, nodding their heads as if they are giving a Japanese-style bow.

When finished feeding, simply hold up your empty hands towards the deer. They will magically disperse.

- AP