Kasuga Taisha: A Divine Shrine for Daily Life

From ancient times, Japan's imperial court and shogunate have supported and protected Kasuga Taisha in Nara Prefecture as a means of praying for national peace and security. Known affectionately and reverently as "Kasuga-san", the shrine is deeply rooted in the lives of Nara locals who support the traditional rites and provide continuous donations. Some of the shrine supporters introduced in this program include a farmer who, for more than 60 years, has grown specially cultivated rice for offerings; pilgrims who venture deep within the sacred forest surrounding the shrine to offer prayers; and a man who hosts one of the shrine deities in his home in order to bring blessings to the community. The program thus provides an intimate portrait of the close bonds that have developed between the shrine and the local community over the centuries.