Kasuga Shrine

It was founded in 768 as the tutelary shrine of Fujiwara family (which provided all the brides for emperors). In accordance with Shinto concepts of purity, it was razed and rebuilt every 20 yrs in its original form until 1863. Note priestess, or whomever she is, performing some kind of ritual and she has flowers in hair. Something big was going on that day; many worshipers at all temples in the park.

Photo b9, 1987

Kasuga Shrine

Two lanterns on way to Kasuga Shrine (Shinto), in Nara Park

Photo b8, 1987

Kasuga Shrine

Some of the 3000 lanterns - stone or bronze - on paths leading to/from Kasuga Shrine. They all are lit in mid-August and in early February.

Photo b10, 1987