Home › Shrines › Kyoto, Nara & Osaka
Kasuga Taisha 春日大社
Nara · Open in Google Maps
Kasuga Taisha was founded in the 8th century as the shrine of the Fujiwara clan, the most powerful family at court. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara".
What to look for
- It enshrines Takemikazuchi, Futsunushi, Ame-no-Koyane and Himegami. Tradition says Takemikazuchi arrived riding a white deer, which is why Nara's deer are treated as sacred messengers.
- The shrine is famous for its lanterns: stone lanterns line the approach and bronze lanterns hang in the corridors, all donated over the centuries. They are lit at the lantern festivals in February and August.
- The approach runs through Nara Park and the forest at the foot of Mt. Kasuga.
Enshrined kami
- Takemikazuchi 武甕槌命
- Futsunushi 経津主命
- Ame-no-Koyane 天児屋根命
- Himegami 比売神
What people pray for here
Success, protection from misfortune and good fortune.
Etiquette
The deer are wild animals. Feed them only the special crackers sold in the park, and keep food out of sight.
New to shrines? Read our short guide to shrine etiquette: purifying your hands, bowing and clapping, offerings, omamori and goshuin.