Already a popular tourist destination, the city announced that it has allocated 2.08 million yen to attract LGBT travellers in its annual budget starting April 2016.

The city announced plans to join the International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association. This will make it the first Japanese municipality to become a member.

The tourism board also plans to hold LGBT study sessions with people in the tourism sector, including restaurants and hotels.

Nara was Japan’s religious and political capital in the 8th century. Today its ancient temples and free-roaming tame deer make it one of the country’s most popular destinations for tourists.