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Japanese Politician Says Tourists Are Kicking Nara’s Deer. But Where’s Her Evidence?
Are foreigners mistreating the deer in Nara? One prominent Japanese politician says so — but the facts don’t back her up.
By Marin Akasaka
Takaichi Sanae, a senior Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) lawmaker, has sparked controversy for comments accusing foreign tourists of mistreating Nara’s deer. When pressed, however, she was able to provide little evidence for her assertion. Other politicians and even reporters criticized her for singling out foreigners.
The remarks
At her campaign speech on the 22nd, the day the LDP leadership race was announced, Takaichi raised concerns about the treatment of Nara’s deer by some foreign visitors. “There are outrageous people who kick them with their feet,” she said.
“If visitors come from abroad and intentionally harm what Japanese people cherish, then something has gone too far.”
She also cited cases where tourists were seen hanging from shrine torii gates as though they were horizontal bars. “If foreigners take pleasure in trampling on the feelings of the Japanese, then something must be done,” she added.
Takaichi emphasized her personal connection to the issue. “As a woman of Nara, I cannot help but care…
