Kasuga Taisha
The shrine of 3,000 lanterns and sacred deer, protector of the ancient capital Nara.
A UNESCO World Heritage site located in Nara Park. Famous for its thousands of bronze and stone lanterns donated by worshippers over centuries, and the wild deer that roam freely as messengers of the gods.
History of the Shrine
Established in 768 AD by the Fujiwara clan, the powerful regents of the Nara and Heian periods, to protect the new capital (Heijo-kyo). The first deity, Takemikazuchi, is said to have arrived riding a white deer from Kashima Shrine, which is why the deer in Nara are considered sacred.
The shrine has a tradition of 'Shikinen Zotai' (periodic rebuilding) every 20 years, similar to Ise Jingu, which has preserved its pristine condition for over 1,200 years.
The Enshrined Kami
What to See
The striking contrast between the vermilion columns, white walls, and cypress bark roofs against the primeval forest (Kasugayama Primeval Forest) is beautiful. The corridor lined with bronze lanterns is iconic.
Visit the 'Meoto Daikokusha' within the grounds, the only shrine in Japan where husband and wife deities are worshipped together, famous for marriage luck.
Major Festivals
The 'Mantoro' festivals in February and August are magical events where all 3,000 lanterns are lit at once, creating a mystical world of flickering candlelight.
The 'Kasuga Wakamiya On-Matsuri' in December is a grand procession of historical costumes dating back to the 12th century.
Support Kasuga Taisha
Your participation helps preserve this sacred site for future generations. Every digital offering contributes to real shrine preservation efforts across Japan.
By making an offering, you become part of a global community honoring Japanese spiritual traditions and supporting the cultural heritage that has been cherished for centuries.