Illuminations

Kasuga Taisha Shrine
Nara
October 9, 2014
JTB Tour 2


A highly revered site by Shinto devotees, the Kasuga Taisha Shrine is famous for its thousands of lanterns. We proceeded to stroll here after touring the mind-blowing Todaiji Temple and Great Buddha Hall.  The Kasuga Grand Shrine is the most important Shinto shrine in Japan and one of the oldest.

Stone lanterns in Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Main entrance to Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Approaching the main entrance, you'll find stacked barrels of sake on the right hand side...

 

...And a wall of wooden plaques inscribed with Japanese prayers and dedications on the left hand side

"In Japan, there are two major religions: Buddhism and Shintoism. But at Christmas, everyone becomes a Christian," our JTB USA tour guide said with a wide grin.  On a serious note, she later explained that 80% of Japan's population practice Shinto.

The Kasuga Taisha is considered the head shrine of all 3,000 Shinto shrines in Japan. Shinto followers believe that spirits or "kami" exist in natural places such as animals, plants, stones, rivers, and mountains. It's no wonder the beautiful and serene grounds of this most celebrated shrine is purposefully located at the Kasugayama Primeval Forest.

The pathway leading up to the main hall is flanked by numerous stone lanterns, some swathed in moss.

The lanterns symbolically provide a guiding light, illuminating one's path in life.

I caught her taking a selfie by the row of stone lanterns. Adorable!

A variety of bronze and golden hanging lanterns

Numerous lanterns hang along the corridors of the complex

In many years past, all the lanterns were lit every evening. I could only imagine how spectacular it must be to see all the glowing lanterns here. Nowadays, they are only lit during two big annual festivals.

Lanterns abound leading up to one of the main buildings of the shrine.

Here, worshipers make offerings and pray for peace, happiness, and well-being.

Some of the donated stone lanterns that have accumulated over the years

Details on a stone lantern

Lined up like soldiers guarding the hall.

There are three main buildings in this shrine: the Haiden (Worship Hall), Heiden (Offering Hall), and Honden (Main Hall, which houses the kami). When we were here, the Main Hall was under restoration but you can find photos and learn more by visiting these helpful sites:

Japan Guide
About Kasuga Taisha
Japan Travel



This story continued from Daibutsu and Divine Messengers.