Lanterns, Deer & Forest

#springitinerary Kasugataisha is this super atmospheric shrine tucked into the woods of Nara, and it feels straight-up magical. You walk through this quiet forest path lined with mossy stone lanterns, and it’s all super peaceful, until a deer casually walks by like it owns the place (which it kind of does). The shrine’s famous for its thousands of lanterns. stone ones outside and bronze ones hanging inside. Twice a year, they light them all up, and it looks like a scene from a dream. Even when they’re not lit, the vibe is super cool and ancient-feeling. The buildings are that bright vermillion color and look amazing against the deep green forest. It’s a great place to just slow down, listen to the wind through the trees, and maybe bow to a passing deer if you’re feeling polite. It’s calm, pretty, and full of those little wow moments that sneak up on you.