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Kasuga Taisha (Kasuga Grand Shrine)
〒630-8212 奈良県奈良市春日野町１６０
Located in Nara City, this shrine serves as the head shrine for approximately 3,000 Kasuga shrines nationwide, revered since the Nara period as the ancestral shrine of the Fujiwara clan. The enshrined deities are Takemikazuchi-no-Mikoto, Futsunushi-no-Mikoto, Amenokoyane-no-Mikoto, and Hirume-no-Kami, collectively known as the Kasuga Shisho (Four Deities of Kasuga). Its origins date back to 768 CE (Shinju-Kiun 2), when Fujiwara no Sadako and others enshrined the four deities at the foot of Mount Kasugayama to protect Heijo-kyo (the capital). The shrine buildings feature a unique architectural style called Kasu-zukuri. To preserve their original appearance, the structures have undergone periodic reconstruction every 20 years more than 60 times. Within the precincts stand about 3,000 stone lanterns donated by samurai, nobles, and commoners; nearly 70% of all Muromachi-period lanterns in Japan are gathered here. The entire vast precinct, including Mount Kasuga, covering approximately 300,000 tsubo, is registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site under 'Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara.'
Enshrined deities
Takemikazuchi-no-Okami, Futsunushi-no-Okami, Ame-no-Koyane-no-Mikoto
History
Founded as the ancestral shrine of the Fujiwara clan, this head shrine of all Kasuga shrines is a World Heritage site famous for its vermilion buildings, thousands of stone lanterns, and the deer roaming along the approach.
Blessings
It is worshipped for granting wishes and warding off misfortune.
What visitors say
The grounds feature numerous shrine buildings and stone lanterns, creating a beautiful landscape with the contrast between the vermilion structures and lush greenery. Visitors can also see deer leisurely wandering within the expansive grounds, adding to the tranquil atmosphere harmonized with nature. There are also spots where one can enjoy seasonal flowers and view reproductions of the Myoto-ro (Ten Thousand Lanterns).
Opening hours
- Monday: 7:00 – 17:00
- Tuesday: 7:00 – 17:00
- Wednesday: 7:00 – 17:00
- Thursday: 7:00 – 17:00
- Friday: 7:00 – 17:00
- Saturday: 7:00 – 17:00
- Sunday: 7:00 – 17:00
Annual events & festivals
- January 1 onwardHatsumode (first shrine visit of the year)
A New Year's visit to a World Heritage site famous for its vermilion-painted shrine buildings and stone lanterns.
As the head shrine of all Kasuga shrines nationwide and a World Heritage site, the sacred precincts are surrounded by vermilion-painted buildings and approximately 3,000 dedicated stone lanterns, creating a solemn atmosphere for welcoming the new year.
HighlightsSee details on the official site ›- ・Vermilion-painted shrine buildings
- ・Sacred precincts within the Kasuga Mountain primeval forest
- ・World Heritage site
- February Setsubun; August 14-15Setsubun Man-toro and Chuugen Man-toro (Ten Thousand Lanterns Festival)
A hauntingly beautiful annual rite (held twice a year) where lights are lit in 3,000 lanterns throughout the grounds.
Held twice a year during Setsubun (February) and Chuugen (August 14-15), all approximately 3,000 stone lanterns in the precincts are lit, enveloping the corridors and approach paths in an ethereal glow.
HighlightsSee details on the official site ›- ・Simultaneous lighting of approximately 3,000 stone lanterns
- ・Ethereal lighting in the corridors
- ・Held twice a year during Setsubun and Chuugen
- March 13Kasuga-sai (Kasuga Festival)
One of the three imperial festivals attended by imperial envoys.
As one of the three imperial festivals attended by envoys from the Emperor, this is the most prestigious ceremony at Kasuga Grand Shrine. Ancient and solemn rites are performed with great gravity.
HighlightsSee details on the official site ›- ・Imperial festival attended by envoys
- ・Ancient rites continuing for over a thousand years
- December 15-18Kasuga Wakamiya On-matsuri (Kasuga Wakamiya Grand Festival)
A Yamato traditional event continuing for over 800 years. The period costume procession is spectacular.
A nationally designated Important Intangible Cultural Property continuing for over 800 years since 1136. On December 17, the 'Owatari-shiki' procession features participants in Heian to Edo period costumes parading through the streets of Nara, followed by all-night dedicatory performances of arts and music.
HighlightsSee details on the official site ›- ・Owatari-shiki (period costume procession)
- ・Tradition continuing for over 800 years
- ・Important Intangible Cultural Property
Dates can shift from year to year. Please check the official information before you go.
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