Furuichi Ryokan

Kasuga Taisha Shrine.

by Sharrie

KASUGA TAISHA SHRINE: Founded in the 8th century by the Fujiwara family, this shrine was completed in end 19th century. The lantern festival held twice a year at this shrine is the major attraction for the Japanese.

Kasuga Grand Shrine & its lanterns

by Restless-in-kl

Built in 768, Kasuga Grand Shrine has been painted a bright vermilion/red color over Japanese lacquered. Here you will find more than 1,800 stone lanterns lining the shrine precinct and another 1,000 suspended from the eaves of the corridors. They served as offerings of devotees to the deities enshrined here.

This shrine offers more serenity and peace than Todaiji Temple prompting us to stop and enjoy vegetarian porridge served alfresco style on the grounds of the shrine.

See more pix in the travelogue

A famous shrine in Nara

by muratkorman

Kasuga Taisha is Nara's most celebrated shrine which was established at the same time as the capital and dedicated to the deity responsible for the protection of the city. The shrine was also the tutelary shrine of Fujiwara. Kasuga Shrine had been periodically torn down and rebuilt every 20 years for many centuries. However, this Shinto custom was dicontinued for Kasuga Taisha at the end of Edo Period. The shrine is famous for its many lanterns donated by worshippers. The architectural style of the shrine is called Kasuga style because of its characteristic roof shape. The surrounding vermilion coridors filled with bronze hanging lanterns, and surrounded by thick green grove, create an elegant atmosphere. The outer area of shrine is free admission. If you would like to see inner area, the admission fee is 500 JPY. The shrine is open everyday and opening hours are as follows : 7:00-16:30 (Nov to Mar), 6:30-17:30 (Apr to Oct).

Nara

by moacha

"Light up Promenade"

This is Kofukugi-temple Tower in Nara park.
Every year , From summer to early autumn ,
The world heritages of Nara are lit up and we can enjoy a night view.

"Todaiji-Temple"

It registers also with world heritage by one of the temples representing Japan. It founds as total Kokubunji by wish of Emperor Shomu who advanced country structure centering on Buddhism. The Great Buddha erection was most important project which reveal national power those days. Tenpyo culture, such as construction and a Buddha statue, is told to the large precincts of a temple soon.

"A Huge statue of Buddha"

It was built in 752 and the enlightment Buddhist service was performed. It is a symbol of Nara of Japan.

Nara

by kiwigal_1

"Temples, Parks, History and Deer!"

Nara is a beautiful, quaint, historically important city located close to Osaka. If you are making a trip to the Osaka region then adding on Nara as a day trip (at least!) is highly recommended. The most memorable thing about Nara were the deer! They are everywhere!! Other than that it is a lovely place to wander around and see plenty of temples and walks in the bush.

For more information on other places to see in Japan please look at my Japan page.