Kasuga-taisha Shrine

Kasuga Taisha Shrine is one of the oldest shrines in Japan, located in Nara City. It enshrines the guardian deity of the Fujiwara clan and is said to have the power to bring prosperity in business and good luck. Various shrines such as Iwamoto Shrine and Kazenomiya Shrine are scattered throughout the precincts, and in particular, "Taga Shrine" enshrines the god of longevity. The surrounding area of Kasuga Taisha Shrine includes famous temples such as Todaiji Temple and Kofukuji Temple, allowing you to experience the history and culture of Nara.

Within the grounds of Kasuga Grand Shrine, there is a Man'yoshu Botanical Garden where approximately 300 species of plants are planted. In particular, the "Wisteria Garden" is known as one of Nara's best wisteria viewing spots, where you can enjoy about 20 different varieties of wisteria. The flowering season is usually from late April to early May, and during the early blooming period, you can enjoy rare varieties of wisteria such as the Chinese-originated musk wisteria and the impressive Showa Crimson Wisteria with its deep pink color.

Kasuga-taisha Shrine houses many treasures, which are displayed in the Treasure Hall and occasionally exhibited outside as special displays. Among these treasures are crafts that evoke aristocratic culture, as well as heavy armor and weapons that were once used by samurai. In addition, the shrine also holds scrolls and masks related to Kasuga art and festivals, making it a treasury of national treasures and important cultural properties.

Kasuga Taisha Shrine is a recommended spot for those who collect Goshuin, or red seal stamps. There are multiple Goshuin spots within this shrine, and you can collect them while exploring the vast grounds. Each Goshuin has a different content written on it, and by understanding the meaning of each one, you can deepen your understanding of Kasuga Taisha Shrine. The price of one Goshuin is 300 yen, and the shrine is open from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm during the summer and from 6:30 am to 5:00 pm during the winter.

The area surrounding Kasuga-taisha Shrine is full of nature, making it a great place to enjoy just by taking a stroll. The eastern area is called "Kasugayama Primeval Forest" and is registered as a World Heritage site. Even around the shrine, there are giant trees to be seen, and it is surrounded by overwhelming nature. The recommended season is during the Golden Week period in spring, where you can enjoy the nature of the primeval forest, fresh greenery, and wisteria flowers all at once.