NaraTravel

Walk along the stone lantern-lined approach and pray for your family's safety at the vermillion-lacquered shrine building

About this spot

The head shrine of Kasuga shrines throughout Japan, said to have been founded in 768, and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the 'Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara.' The landscape of vermillion-lacquered shrine buildings with primeval forest as their backdrop, approximately 2,000 stone lanterns lining the approach, and approximately 1,000 hanging lanterns adorning the covered corridor is breathtaking. The sight of deer walking between moss-covered lanterns is like a scene from an ancient picture scroll. Worship at the main shrine is free, and the bright vermillion corridors and middle gate are even more beautiful when viewed up close. Various affiliated shrines dot the grounds, including the Meotoōkokuninomiya (Couple Daikoku Shrine) known for good fortune in love. The hypnotic 'Mantoro' lantern-lighting festival occurs during Setsubun (early February) and Obon (mid-August), when all the lanterns are illuminated. Simply walking slowly through the approach allows parents and children alike to feel the air of the sacred forest of prayers that has continued for over a thousand years.

Tips

Accessible on foot from Todai-ji Temple and Nara Park. The approach path from the first torii gate to the main shrine is sandy for a long stretch, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. A stroller may be difficult to push; a baby carrier is reassuring. If you get tired from walking, Nara Kotsu Bus toward 'Kasuga Taisha Honten' (Main Shrine) offers a ride closer to the shrine. If you want to view the vermillion corridors from inside, special worship (initial offering of ¥500) is available. Watch out for remaining deer crackers being targeted by the deer along the approach.