Nara Mahoroba-kan

Visitors to this antenna shop are greeted by Sento-kun, the fluffy mascot of Nara, whose creator was clearly inspired by the prefecture’s famous tame deer. Once you get past the welcoming committee, head straight for the food section and its savoury delicacies such as ‘narazuke’ pickles, sushi wrapped in bamboo leaves, and natto (fermented soybeans) made with extra-large soybeans. For something sweet, try the deer-shaped cookies. The Aoniyoshi restaurant nearby caters to hungry shoppers with hearty servings of Nara cuisine.