When visiting Nara, besides Todaiji Temple, Kasugataisha Shrine is another classic attraction you absolutely shouldn't miss. Located within the Kasugayama Primeval Forest, Kasugataisha is the head shrine of about 3,000 Kasuga shrines across Japan. Together with Todaiji Temple and Kofukuji Temple, it forms one of Nara's representative cultural landscapes and is also listed as a World Cultural Heritage Site.
Walking slowly along the approach into the forest, the towering ancient trees, stone lanterns, and vermilion buildings blend together. Sunlight filters through the treetops, creating an atmosphere that is both solemn and mysterious. What impressed me most was the sheer number of lanterns.
There are many stone lanterns and hanging lanterns donated by worshippers throughout the grounds of Kasugataisha and along the surrounding approaches. Even when quietly lined up among the ancient forest and shrine buildings, they are already very distinctive; during certain annual festivals, thousands of lanterns are lit, creating a dreamlike and sacred scene.
There are also Nara's cutest divine messengers--the deer. While walking along the approach to Kasugataisha, you'll occasionally come across Nara deer strolling leisurely. Deer have deep ties to the beliefs of Kasugataisha and are regarded as messengers of the gods, adding a touch of charm and liveliness to the solemn shrine.
What I liked most about this visit to Kasugataisha was the peaceful feeling of being surrounded by forest and far away from the noise of the city. The vermilion shrine buildings, ancient lanterns, towering trees, and leisurely sacred deer all fill the area with Nara's unique charm.
