Oharano Shrine
大原野神社
Kyoto · Kyoto-shi, Nishikyo-ku
Kasuga Matchmaking
Meishin-taisha
Kasuga Taisha
春日大社
Nijunisha
Admission
Free (inner shrine: 500 yen)
Goshuin (Temple Seal)
300 yen
Access
25 min walk
Hours
6:30-17:30 (varies)
Overview
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.
History
Founding
📜According to tradition
768 [Jingo-keiun 2]
Head of about 3,000 Kasuga shrines. UNESCO World Heritage Site. Famous for its 3,000 stone and bronze lanterns. Deer are considered divine messengers.
📄
Documented
768 Source: Shoku Nihongi historical record
768📄Documented
Founded to protect the new capital of Heijo-kyo (Nara)
Enshrined Deities
⛩
primary Deity
God of thunder, swords, martial arts, and sumo; emissary of the heavenly deities
⛩
⛩
primary Deity
God of ritual prayers (norito), divination, and the Fujiwara clan ancestor; one of the Kasuga deities
⛩
primary Deity
Goddess of water, islands, music, eloquence, and wealth; one of the three Munakata goddesses
Blessings
Shrine Network
Kasuga Head shrine (souhonsha)
Did You Know?
💡
All 3,000 lanterns are lit during the Mantoro festivals in February and August, creating one of Japan's most atmospheric nighttime events.
Source: documented
💡
Nara's famous deer are considered sacred messengers of this shrine, originating from the legend of a deity arriving on a white deer.
Source: tradition
💡
The 'kasuga-zukuri' architectural style originated here and became one of the standard shrine styles nationwide.
Source: documented
In Pop Culture
anime / 1997
Princess Mononoke Kasuga Taisha in Nara. The sacred deer of Nara and the primeval forest setting evoke the Shishigami's forest. Miyazaki drew inspiration from ancient Japanese forests.
Practical Information
Location Coordinates
34.6811, 135.8497
Physical Address
160 Kasugano-cho, Nara-shi, Nara
奈良県奈良市春日野町160
Access
Kintetsu Nara Station
25 min walk
Hours
6:30-17:30 (varies)
Visitor information last verified: 2026-04-06. Please check the official website for the latest details.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Information provided by Jinja DB Editorial Team
What is 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.
Where is Kasuga Taisha located?
Kasuga Taisha is located in Nara-shi, Nara. The full address is: 160 Kasugano-cho, Nara-shi, Nara.
What deities are enshrined at Kasuga Taisha?
The enshrined deities are: Takemikazuchi no Kami, Futsunushi no Kami, Amenokoyane no Mikoto, Ichikishimahime no Mikoto.
What blessings can you pray for at Kasuga Taisha?
Kasuga Taisha is known for: Matchmaking, General Prosperity, Warding Off Evil, Longevity.
How do I get to Kasuga Taisha?
The nearest station is Kintetsu Nara Station. It is about a 25-minute walk from the station. City Bus to Kasuga Taisha Honden