A sacred forest with a history spanning over 1,100 years. Explore the serene and majestic primeval forest, preserved as the sacred grounds of Kasuga Taisha Shrine.
Historic Sites
World Heritage
Scenic Views
Highlights
Experience the serenity and majesty of Kasuga Taisha Shrine's sacred grounds.
Feel the breath of the primeval forest on your skin.
Witness the beautiful scenery of sunlight filtering through the lush greenery.
Take a Nara Kotsu bus bound for "Kasuga Taisha Honden" from Kintetsu Nara Station (Kintetsu Nara Line) or JR Nara Station (JR West Kansai Main Line/Sakurai Line). Get off at the last stop, "Kasuga Taisha Honden," and walk.
Alternatively, take the Nara Kotsu bus (inner city loop, outer route) and get off at "Kasuga Taisha Omotesando." Then, walk to the forest.
It's also possible to walk from Kintetsu Nara Station or JR Nara Station. Show route
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Notice: Please stick to the designated walkways and avoid entering restricted areas.
Kasuga Primeval Forest is a primeval forest located east of Nara City, Nara Prefecture, covering approximately 250 hectares.
Since ancient times, this sacred forest has been protected as the sacred grounds of Kasuga Taisha Shrine, with hunting and logging strictly prohibited. Active preservation efforts have maintained its pristine condition.
Kasuga Primeval Forest is home to a diverse array of trees, including Podocarpus nagi, Myrica rubra, various species of Lithocarpus, Ilex integra, Cyclobalanopsis gilva, Podocarpus macrophylla, Cinnamomum japonicum, Neolitsea sericea, Symplocos paniculata, and many more.
Numerous climbing plants are also found, such as Bauhinia faberi, Kadsura japonica, Actinidia arguta, Trachelospermum asiaticum, Ficus erecta, Rosa multiflora, Akebia quinata, and Wisteria floribunda.
Furthermore, the forest boasts a rich variety of warm-climate ferns, including Dryopteris crassirhizoma, Cyclosorus parasiticus, Diplazium esculentum, and Pteris cretica.
Kasuga Primeval Forest is a treasure trove of nature, a truly diverse ecosystem.
It plays a crucial role in preserving Nara's landscape and is registered as a component of the UNESCO World Heritage site, "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara."
When visiting Nara Park, be sure to explore Kasuga Primeval Forest and experience its abundant nature.