Kasuga Taisha Setsubun Mantoro 2026 Dates

For practical details and last-minute changes, use Nara travel info.

For practical details and last-minute changes, use Nara travel info.

Plan to arrive early at the shrine to find a good spot for the evening. The shrine grounds become very crowded as the sun sets over the ancient city of Nara. You should aim to reach the area by 5:00 PM at the very latest. This gives you enough time to explore the grounds before the lights begin to glow.

Admission to the inner shrine area costs about 500 yen for adults during this festival. You can view the stone lanterns for free along the winding forest paths outside. Most visitors prefer seeing the hanging bronze lanterns inside the main buildings for better photos. Check the Nara City Tourism Association website for any last-minute schedule updates.

The Magic of Kasuga Taisha Mantoro Lanterns 2026

Kasuga Taisha features over 3,000 unique lanterns during this famous and historic winter festival. About 2,000 stone lanterns line the forest pathways leading up to the main shrine buildings. Another 1,000 bronze lanterns hang from the eaves of the beautiful vermilion shrine structures. These lanterns have been donated by devotees over many centuries to show their deep faith.

The flickering candlelight creates a mysterious and peaceful mood throughout the entire shrine complex. You will see intricate designs on the hanging bronze vessels as you walk through the halls. Many lanterns feature patterns of deer or traditional Japanese motifs that represent the local culture. This event is part of the Kasuga Taisha Mantoro lanterns 2026 tradition.

Walking through the dark woods feels like stepping back in time to ancient Japan. The soft orange glow reflects beautifully off the bright red walls of the shrine buildings. It is a rare chance to see the shrine without any modern electric lights. Every single lantern is lit by hand using a long match by shrine staff.

How to Reach the Shrine in Nara

The walk from the center of Nara Park to the shrine takes about 20 minutes. You will pass through a beautiful forest filled with many wild and friendly deer. These deer are considered sacred messengers of the gods in the local Shinto belief system. Wear comfortable walking shoes because the paths are made of rough gravel and uneven stones.

Winter evenings in Nara are quite cold during the early part of February. Temperatures often drop to 2°C or 3°C shortly after the sun goes down. You should wear thermal layers and a heavy winter coat to stay warm while walking. Gloves and a warm hat are also highly recommended for a comfortable festival experience.

Consider visiting other nearby sites like Todai-ji Temple before the lantern festival begins. This allows you to make the most of your day trip to the city of Nara. The city is easily reachable by train from both Kyoto and Osaka stations. Most trains run frequently until late in the evening for returning tourists.

Photography Tips for the Lantern Festival

Capturing the lanterns requires a camera that can handle low-light settings without using a flash. Use a wide aperture to let in as much natural light as possible for clear shots. Tripods are often restricted due to the large crowds moving through the narrow shrine paths. Try to keep your hands very steady while taking your photos to avoid any blur.

The bronze lanterns inside the shrine offer the best photo opportunities for your collection. Their golden color contrasts beautifully with the dark night sky and the red wood. Be very respectful of other visitors while you set up your camera for the perfect shot. Avoid using a bright flash as it ruins the natural atmosphere for everyone else.

You might find better angles near the edges of the main shrine buildings. Look for reflections of the lights on the polished wooden floors for a unique look. For more advice, read our photography tips for Kasuga Taisha lantern festival guide online. This will help you get the best possible images during your visit.