Kasuga Shrine

Kasuga Taisha, with its vivid vermilion-lacquered buildings, is the head shrine of more than 3,000 Kasuga shrines nationwide. It is said to have begun in 768, when Takemikazuchi-no-Mikoto was welcomed from Kashima Jingu Shrine in Hitachi Province (present-day Ibaraki) and a sanctuary was built. Because Takemikazuchi is said to have arrived riding a white deer, deer have long been cherished as divine messengers. At Tobihino within the Kasuga Taisha grounds, a “Shika Yose” (deer-gathering) event is held in summer and winter. Kasuga Taisha also offers deer-themed omikuji and charms such as the Hakushika Mamori, which make nice souvenirs. The shrine preserves numerous stone and hanging lanterns donated by worshippers. Every year on Setsubun and on August 14–15, all lanterns are lit for the Mantoro event. At other times of year, you can still see a recreated Mantoro at Fujinami-no-ya within the main shrine corridor. Kasuga Taisha is also known for wisteria; besides the Manyo Botanical Garden, you can see wisteria in the corridor’s trellises, including the famous “Sunazuri no Fuji,” whose long flower clusters nearly brush the ground. After visiting Kasuga Taisha, you might enjoy walking the Sasayaki no Komichi path toward Takabatake and taking a break at a nearby cafe.