Abstract

Nara Prefecture, nestled between the world-renowned tourist destination Kyoto and the bustling metropolis of Osaka, is often associated with tranquil countryside landscapes. While famous for its wild deer, the Great Buddha, and ancient ruins, Nara tends to be overshadowed by its neighboring cities.
This essay-style manga by Kanimenma—a manga artist known for her humorous essays on being a “bangyaru” (a devoted fan of visual kei bands)—chronicles her surprising discoveries upon returning to her hometown in Nara after more than a decade away.
From bizarre traditional festivals like the “Sand-Throwing Festival,” to the surreal “Omifuki” ritual where people emerge from the head of the Great Buddha, and the dramatic “Wakakusa Yamayaki” mountain burning event that resembles a wildfire, Kanimenma is repeatedly astonished by the eccentric local culture. She finds herself unexpectedly obsessed with the J3 League soccer team “Nara Club,” and is thrilled by the passionate fans at a live performance by local idol group “Cute Robin.” Through these experiences, she uncovers the unique charm of “local fandom” that urban life rarely offers.
The manga also offers a fresh perspective on famous landmarks such as Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Todai-ji Temple, Sarusawa Pond, and the Shosoin Exhibition, as well as the secret nightlife of Nara’s deer and their little-known behaviors. It’s a deep dive into the quirky, vibrant, and endearing side of Nara.

Deer or Not Deer? Sand-Throwing Festival / Shouting Nara Love at J.League Matches / A Close-Up Look at Nara School Trips / The Great Buddha’s Omifuki Ritual / The “Metropolis” of Kashihara Aruru / Nightlife in Nara / Protecting the Ancient Capital: Nara’s Firefighters (Mountain Burning Story / Cultural Property Story) / Sentokun (Parts 1・2・3) / Touring Nara with Editor T: Gourmet Story / ...plus bonus comics and a handy “+α MAP” for your Nara travels.

Author’s Information

A graduate of Osaka University of Arts, currently residing in Nara Prefecture, where she was born.
Her published works include the four-volume series "Bangyaru-chan no Nichijō" and "Kyō mo Live ni Ikemasen! – Around-40 Bangyaru’s Passionate Talk on Visual Kei".
She has also co-authored "Bangyaru-chan no Rōgo – A Non-Scary Retirement Plan for Otaku".