An authentic Shinto experience awaits you on a visit to the Kasuga Taisha Shrine. At the foot of Mount Mikasa and enveloped by a mystical forest, Kasuga Taisha Shrine is one of Nara’s most sacred and beautiful temples. Wander between shrines dedicated to the great gods of the Shinto religion. Admire the gracefulness of temple buildings and attend a festival.
Legend says that mythological god of thunder Takemikazuchi lived on the mountain, providing blessings for local residents. Fujiwara-no-Nagate commissioned the stunning buildings here and enshrined several gods in 768 to protect Nara, Japan’s new capital. The structures’ pristine condition results from renovation ceremonies taking place every 20 years. Visit the shrine, part of the UNESCO-listed Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara.
Deer, seen as messengers of Shinto gods, roam freely on the pathway to the complex. Enter the site via one of four gateways to discover lanes and corridors lined with more than 3,000 bronze and stone lanterns. Study the photogenic vermilion-red pillars and curving cedar roofs of the shrines and prayer halls. The design coined its own architectural style, called kasuga-zukuri.
Four acclaimed kami, which are Shinto’s holy powers, sit enshrined in the Main Sanctuary. The kami Amenokoyane, Himegami, Futsunushi and Takemikazuchi were venerated by the Fujiwara clan.
Scattered around the complex, see 12 smaller shrines honoring gods of fortune. Most notable is the Wakamiya Shrine, where the annual Kasuga Wakamiya Onmatsuri Festival of traditional dance takes place.
Make your way to the Naoraiden ceremony hall and watch the daily morning prayer worship. The Treasure House stores valuable works of art. They include taiko drums, arrows and mirrors from the Kamakura and Heian periods. Plan your visit in February or late August to see the shrine’s lanterns illuminated for the Mantōrō lantern festivals.
Ride to the shrine’s bus stop at the southeastern corner of Nara Park or drive and use the site’s free parking. Be sure to see the exquisite Manyo Botanical Garden within the grounds.
The Kasuga Taisha Shrine is open daily and has an admission fee. Some shrine sections might be closed during festivals. Check the official website for an events schedule.
