The Kashihara Shrine

“The Kashihara Shrine” can be found in Kashihara City in central Nara. Enshrined here is Japan’s first Emperor, Emperor Jimmu and his Empress. According to the Nihon Shoki (The Chronicles of Japan), Kashihara is the land where Japan was first founded. Some may call Kashihara Shrine the birthplace of Japan.
Ceremonies and various rituals are performed in the Heiden (offering hall), which has the Chigi and katsuogi log decorations on its roof. The Honden (main shrine), where the deities are enshrined, is hidden behind for an unusual shrine layout. Visitors may also enjoy the beautiful views of the Fukada Ike pond and the Unebiyama mountains in every season. The Takaramono Kan and the Treasure House which are displayed by the shrine are also must-see spots.
Various festivities take place all-year-round at Kashihara Shrine, the most important one is the Kigen festival held on February 11, which is Japan’s National Foundation Day. Thousands come each year to celebrate this festival honoring Emperor Jimmu’s enthronement and the birth of Japan.