Kasuga-taisha

Kasuga-taisha is one of Japan's most important and visually stunning Shinto shrines, established in 768 CE in the sacred forest of Nara. The shrine is famous for its thousands of stone and bronze lanterns, which are lit during the Mantoro lantern festivals held twice a year. As the tutelary shrine of the Fujiwara clan, Kasuga-taisha played a central role in shaping Japanese culture and politics throughout the classical period.