Photo: Saigen Jiro / Wikimedia Commons (CC0)

Kasuga Taisha

Shrine World Heritage

Part of Nara

Prefecture

Nara

Type

Shrine · World Heritage: Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara

N/A

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English Staff Train Access Cafe

Plan a trip with Kasuga Taisha

About This Destination

Ancient Shinto shrine set in a primeval forest, famous for thousands of stone and bronze lanterns.

Kasuga Taisha, founded in 768 AD, is one of Japan's most celebrated Shinto shrines and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The shrine is renowned for its approximately 3,000 stone and bronze lanterns donated by worshippers over the centuries. Set within the sacred forests of Mount Mikasa, the vermillion-lacquered buildings create a striking contrast against the surrounding greenery. The lanterns are lit during the Mantoro festivals held in February and August, creating an ethereal atmosphere.

Location

Prefecture: Nara

Address: Nara, Japan

Nearest Station: Nara

Opening hours: Mon–Sun 06:30–17:30

Hours note: The gates are open 6:30 to 17:30 from March to October and 7:00 to 17:00 from November to February. Special worship in front of the main sanctuary (700 yen) runs 9:00 to 16:00 and is not available around 8 to 13 March, 20 December to 7 January, on Coming of Age Day, and at times during other rites. The National Treasure Hall is open 10:00 to 17:00, last entry 16:30.

Hours and fees checked against the official site on 9 October 2026.

Best time to visit: Year-round; the moss-covered stone lanterns are atmospheric, lit during the February and August lantern festivals

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Unknown

Food Options: Small cafe near the shrine; restaurants available in Nara Park area

Access

Nara, Japan

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Kasuga Taisha?

It's within Nara Park, about a 25-minute walk from Kintetsu-Nara Station, or take a bus to the Kasuga-Taisha-Honden stop.

What is Kasuga Taisha famous for?

It's famous for its thousands of bronze hanging lanterns and stone lanterns donated over the centuries. They are all lit during the Mantoro lantern festivals in early February and mid-August.