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Shinto Grand ShrineShintoUNESCO World Heritage Site (component)

Kasuga Taisha

春日大社 · Kasuga Grand Shrine

Kasuganocho, Nara, Nara Prefecture, Japan

UNESCO-listed Nara shrine of the Fujiwara tradition, famous for sacred deer, primeval forest and thousands of lanterns.

Sacred Place Overview

About Kasuga Taisha

Identity, documented context and sacred significance.

Kasuga Taisha is one of Nara’s principal Shinto shrines, founded in the 8th century and historically associated with the Fujiwara clan.

Sacred Place at a Glance

A concise view of the place, tradition, location and heritage details available for this Sacred Place.

Place TypeShinto Grand Shrine
Religious TraditionShinto
LocationKasuganocho, Nara, Nara Prefecture, Japan
CountryJapan
Established / Period768
ArchitectureKasuga-zukuri
HeritageUNESCO World Heritage Site (component)
Governing BodyKasuga Taisha

Faith, Tradition & Sacred Association

Religious tradition, dedication and sacred associations connected with this place.

Religious TraditionShinto

History & Sacred Tradition

Documented history, sacred narrative and editorial synthesis are kept visibly separate.

Historical Record

The shrine was established in 768 under Fujiwara patronage and became a central shrine of the clan and Nara court culture.

Sacred Tradition

Legend says Takemikazuchi arrived at Mt. Mikasa riding a white deer, contributing to the sacred status of Nara’s deer. This is religious legend.

Editorial Context

Significance: One of Nara’s most important Shinto shrines, integrated with the sacred Kasugayama forest landscape.

Architecture & Sacred Complex

Kasuga-zukuri · Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara · UNESCO World Heritage Site (component)

Worship & Practices

Documented worship, observances and practices where available.

Setsubun MantoroChugen MantoroKasuga Wakamiya Onmatsuri

Entry & Visitor Rules

Practical access information and visitor guidance for this Sacred Place.

Entry / Accessvariable
Special timingsGeneral precinct opening varies seasonally; Official Nara Travel Guide lists 06:00–18:00 Apr–Sep and 06:30–17:00 Oct–Mar, with separate paid-area hours.
Restricted areas / visitor rulesEntry information: General precinct access is free; some inner/special areas and museum spaces require admission.

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Information Status & Sources

Information Status

Status
Source Confirmed
Last checked
September 23, 2026