Haraedo Shrine

First built in the early Heian period (794–1185). It is located near the purification fountain and enshrines the Shinto deity Seoritsuhime, the kami of exorcism. The opening ceremony of the annual Kasuga Festival, the most important festival at Kasuga Taisha Shrine, is held at this shrine. Before reaching Haraedo Shrine, worshippers pass the second torii gate and perform ritual ablutions at the purification fountain. Worshippers in the Shinto faith are required to cleanse themselves physically and spiritually before worshipping at the shrine to show respect for and to find favor with the kami.