Kasuga Taisha Shrine, located in Nara, Japan, is a historic Shinto shrine founded in 768 AD by the powerful Fujiwara clan.
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the shrine is famed for its beautiful architecture, sacred deer, and thousands of stone and bronze lanterns, which illuminate the shrine during its biannual Lantern Festivals.
Main Sanctuary (Honden)
The Honden, or Main Sanctuary, is the heart of Kasuga Taisha. This area reflects traditional Shinto architecture, with vermilion pillars and cypress bark roofs.
Visitors can enter the outer sanctuary freely, while access to the inner area requires a small fee.
Lanterns
Kasuga Taisha is renowned for its 3,000 lanterns, which have been donated by worshippers over the centuries.
Both stone and bronze lanterns are illuminated during the Setsubun Mantoro in February and the Obon Mantoro in August, creating an enchanting atmosphere.
Manyo Botanical Garden
Adjacent to the shrine, the Manyo Botanical Garden showcases over 200 plant species, including wisteria and other plants mentioned in the Manyoshu, Japan’s oldest collection of poetry.
The garden is especially popular during wisteria season in late spring.
Admission Fees and Hours
Admission: Entry to the outer shrine grounds is free. Access to the inner area costs 500 yen, while the Kasuga Taisha Museum and Botanical Garden each have a 500 yen entrance fee.
Hours: The shrine is open from 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM (March to October) and from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM (November to February). Hours for the museum and botanical garden may vary by season.
Access Information
Kasuga Taisha Shrine is located in Nara Park, making it easily accessible:
- From Kintetsu Nara Station: A 30-minute walk or a short bus ride directly to the shrine.
- From JR Nara Station: A 45-minute walk or a quick bus ride to the Kasuga Taisha Honden bus stop.
Nearby Attractions
Kasuga Taisha Shrine is situated within Nara Park, close to these notable attractions:
- Nara Park: Known for its friendly deer, considered sacred and symbolic to the area.
- Todai-ji Temple: Famous for housing the Great Buddha, one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks.
- Kofuku-ji Temple: Another UNESCO site, renowned for its five-story pagoda and historical significance.
Google Map
Frequently Asked Questions about Kasuga Taisha Shrine
Is Kasuga Taisha shrine worth visiting?
Yes, with its historical architecture, vibrant lantern festivals, and beautiful surroundings, Kasuga Taisha is a must-see in Nara.
What is the entrance fee for Kasuga Taisha Shrine?
Entry to the outer shrine is free, while access to the inner sanctuary, museum, and botanical garden each have a 500 yen fee.
How long should I spend at Kasuga Taisha?
Plan for 1-2 hours to fully enjoy the main shrine, lanterns, museum, and surrounding botanical garden.
