Kasugayama Primeval Forest｜UNESCO Forest Trail in Nara

Kasugayama Primeval Forest as Seen from Tobihino in Nara Park

In the foreground, there is a small mountain known as Mikasa-yama, where the main shrine of Kasuga Taisya Shrine is located at the summit.
According to legend, the deity Takemikazuchi no Mikoto arrived in Nara from Kashima Taisha Shrine, riding on the back of a white deer.

As you walk toward the mountain from the intersection in front of Todai-ji Temple’s approach, you’ll see “Mizuya Teahouse” on your right.
Behind Mizuya Teahouse flows the Mizuya River, which originates from Kasugayama Primeval Forest.
Following this river, you can enter into the depths of the forest.

Kasugayama Primeval Forest is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Since hunting and logging were banned in 814, it has been carefully protected as a sacred area of Kasuga Taisha Shrine.
A walking path runs alongside the Mizuya River, leading up to the summit of Wakakusa yama Mountain.
While you can walk along the path, entry into the primeval forest itself is not permitted.

Kasugayama Primeval Forest, a Nationally Designated Natural Monument

The forests on both sides are primeval forests.

This kind of scenery continues.

Here is a sign along the way:
It is 2.8 kilometers from the base of Wakakusa yama Mountain to the summit, so you can walk up to the top in about an hour.

There are also large trees growing here.

Naka-Mizuya Rest Spot

I’ve arrived at the summit of Wakakusa-yama Mountain.
There are many deer here as well.

You can see the roof of the Daibutsuden Hall towards the central right.
The mountain directly in front is Ikoma Mountain.

The black forest is Kasugayama Primeval Forest.
I have walked through this primeval forest.

Wakakusa-yama Mountain covered with snow.

On the way back, you can pay the entrance fee to Wakakusa Mountain (150 yen) and enjoy the view of Nara as you descend.
However, please note that Wakakusa-yama Mountain is closed during the winter months.

Mizuya Tea House at the Entrance to Kasugayama Primeval Forest

It is 4.5 kilometers to Uguisu Falls.

Kasugayama Primeval Forest is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Autumn Leaves in Full Splendor

Walking along the Kasuga-okuyama Driveway

The Largest Wild Cherry Tree in the Kasuga-okuyama Area

Hanayama　
Back of the Jizo Statue

Junction to Uguisu Falls and the Driveway

Heading to Uguisu Falls from the Junction

Entrance to Kankiten, a Sub-temple of Kofukuji, Located Just Before the Waterfall

The temple once offered beautiful autumn foliage within its grounds, but it is now abandoned.

Uguisu Falls

This is Uguisu Falls—the source of the Saho River that once flowed beside the ancient capital of Heijo-kyo.
A modest cascade of about 10 meters, it is cherished as a scenic spot for fresh greenery in spring, cool retreats in summer, and vibrant autumn

Uguishu Fall