Nara Chugen Mantoro

More than 3,000 lanterns are lit at Kasuga Taisha Shrine in Nara twice a year—on February 3 for Setsubun Mantoro (節分万燈籠) and again on August 14 and 15 for Chugen Mantoro (中元万灯籠). This ritual dates back over 800 years, with many of the lanterns donated by citizens as sacred offerings. Among the 2,000 stone garden lanterns is a 12th-century specimen believed to be the second oldest in Japan. These lanterns are hand-lit with candles, creating a flickering atmosphere against the shrine’s vermilion pillars, with viewing allowed until 9:30 PM when the gates close.

Access to the most iconic rows of hanging bronze lanterns in the inner cloister (kairo) requires a separate admission fee, and this area experiences heavy pedestrian congestion immediately following the 7:00 PM lighting. Due to the historical nature of the sanctuary and the darkness of the forested paths, the use of tripods and monopods is strictly prohibited to ensure safety and preserve the quietude of the ritual. It is also worth visiting the Fujinami-no-ya hall, which features a mirror-lined room that recreates the Mantoro effect in total darkness, offering a detailed view of the intricate metalwork often obscured by the outdoor evening crowds.