Kasuga Taisha shrine
One of the most iconic places in Nara is Kasuga Taisha Shrine, also known as the “Lantern Shrine”. Dedicated to the city’s patron deity, this Shinto shrine is famous for its history, architecture, and the thousands of bronze and stone lanterns that decorate the grounds.
Built in 768, Kasuga Taisha Shrine used to be torn down and rebuilt every 20 years in an ancient Shinto tradition, a practice that has since ceased. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Historic Monument of ancient Nara.
The shrine is adorned with about 3000 lanterns, including 2000 stone lanterns around the shrine and 1000 bronze lanterns hanging from the roofs and eaves. These lanterns were donated by the faithful, including former samurai seeking protection from the deity Hachiman during times of war.
The lanterns are lit twice a year, during the Setsubun Mantoro festival in February and the Obon Mantoro festival in August. These events create a magical atmosphere you shouldn’t miss if you’re in Nara during these times.
Access
Getting to Nara by train is pretty straightforward, with two main stations: Kintetsu-Nara and JR Nara.
If you have a Japan Rail Pass, take a JR train to JR Nara Station. From Kyoto, the journey takes about 45 minutes and costs 710 yen if you don’t have the pass.
Without a JR Pass and looking for a faster option, take the Kintetsu Limited Express from Kyoto to Nara, which takes about 35 minutes and costs 1,130 yen with a seat reservation. This station is closer to the main attractions, saving you some walking.
From Osaka, if you have a JR Pass, take the JR Yamatoji Rapid Service Line, which takes about an hour. Without a JR Pass, the Kintetsu Nara Rapid Express line is your best bet, taking about 45 minutes.
Price
Kasuga Taisha’s goshuin is 500 ¥.
Opening Hours
- The shrine is open from 7am to 5pm from November to February and from 6:30am to 5:30pm from March to October.
- To enter the shrine itself, the fee is 500 yen (about €4).
- If you only want to explore the exterior and gardens, admission is free.
- For more details, visit the official Kasuga Taisha website.
