Besides the deer park what are some things you do in Nara?
I hiked through 榁木峠 (closest train station is inchibu) which is a amazing hiking trail that l hiked a few days ago it’s mostly secluded and features a bamboo forest that blows the famous one in Kyoto out of the water. After you could move onto a hike to the Yaya-Dera via the Yata Nature Park trail. (There is a lot of parking here). (This borders Osaka and is in Nara).
Next would be Hozan-ji 生駒山 寶山寺（生駒聖天）I am not sure that this is necessarily a secret spot considering its famous among some community’s. However, I would consider it one of the nicer more secluded temples in Nara. The surrounding area is pretty nice too.
Looking forward to hearing your suggestions of all kinds!
by wemcream