Kasuga Taisha

Kasuga Taisha is the tutelary shrine of the powerful Fujiwara clan and one of the most important shrines in Japanese history. Founded in 768 to protect the capital of Nara, it enshrines four deities collectively known as the Kasuga gods. As the head of approximately 3,000 Kasuga shrines nationwide, its influence extends across the country. The shrine is renowned for its approximately 3,000 stone and bronze lanterns, donated by worshippers over centuries. Twice a year, during the Mantoro (Lantern Festival) in February and August, all 3,000 lanterns are lit simultaneously, creating an ethereal spectacle. Deer have been considered divine messengers of Kasuga Taisha since the founding legend, in which the deity Takemikazuchi arrived riding a white deer. This belief is the origin of Nara's famous free-roaming deer population. The shrine's architectural style, 'kasuga-zukuri,' characterized by its distinctive curved roof and vermilion coloring, became one of the standard shrine styles across Japan.

Kasuga Taisha is located in Nara-shi, Nara. The full address is: 160 Kasugano-cho, Nara-shi, Nara.

The enshrined deities are: Takemikazuchi no Kami, Futsunushi no Kami, Amenokoyane no Mikoto, Ichikishimahime no Mikoto.

Kasuga Taisha is known for: rencontre amoureuse, prosperite generale, protection contre le mal, longevite.

The nearest station is Kintetsu Nara Station. It is about a 25-minute walk from the station. City Bus to Kasuga Taisha Honden