In Japan, the Sika deer is regarded as sacred and allowed to roam freely in the city of Nara. According to legend, protective deities arrived on the backs of a deer to protect the former Japanese capital. Now Nara protects the deer. It is also said that “when one encounters deer, he or she should get out of the carriage and bow to them” as they are considered a sign from the gods and a good omen. 15 x 7 x 6, 2006 - ed. 35