NARA - Nara Park's famous deer are increasingly spilling into residential areas and farmland as their population reaches a record high, creating new problems for residents even as the animals remain a major attraction for visitors to the ancient capital. Few tourists remained in sunny areas of the park, while both visitors and deer sought shade. Several deer gathered beneath mist showers installed for tourists, including one large antlered deer that remained sitting under the cooling spray for more than three hours. A survey conducted in July counted 1,687 deer, an increase of 222 from the previous year and the highest number on record. Deer crackers sold in Nara Park are expected to reach record sales levels this year as the number of inbound visitors continues to grow.