Kasuga-taisha Shrine

Kasuga-taisha Shrine is famous for Japan's largest number of lanterns, with 2,000 stone lanterns and 1,000 hanging lanterns within the shrine premises. Since 800 years ago, people, including aristocrats and warriors, have dedicated lanterns for many kinds of wishes, such as family safety, prosperity in business and survival on the battlefield. Lanterns covered with moss speak for themselves as to how long they have been standing there. During Mantoro, a shrine event held in February and August, all of the 3,000 lanterns are lit, creating an overwhelmingly beautiful sight.

Mount Kasuga Primeval Forest

Designated as a National Natural Monument and a World Cultural Heritage site, this primeval forest covers a vast area in the vicinity of Kasuga-taisha Shrine. Since hunting and felling were banned over 1,100 years ago, Mount Kasuga Primeval Forest has remained untouched as a sanctuary of the shrine, retaining some impressive features, such as trees that are hundreds of years old and two meters in diameter, and over 800 kinds of fauna and flora species, including designated Natural Monuments. The paved walking trails here also make it an ideal place for strolling and hiking.

Mount Wakakusa: a symbol of Nara

Mount Wakakusa is a grass-covered, gentle hill that is ideal for casual hiking. From the summit, you can look out over the city of Nara and see many landmarks, including the Great Buddha Hall and Nara Park, and even Yamato Sanzan (Three Mountains of Yamato) in the distance on a sunny day. The night view here was selected as one of the new top three night views in Japan, and at the annual winter event, called Wakakusayama-yaki, the mountain is set alight with fires, turning the night sky over the ancient capital an amazing glowing red.