Kasuga-jinja Shrine has been enshrined for more than 1250 years at the foot of Mt. Kasuga-yama, north of Kawahigashi, in Iga City. The origin of welcoming the deity dates to 769. Although the worship hall has been altered by renovations in later years, some of the large pillars still retain features from the Muromachi era. Designated as a prefectural culture property, it is believed to have been built in the mid-15th century, making it one of the oldest buildings in the prefecture.
In Iga Province and Koka region, local samurais and influential farmers eliminated public authority by working together and maintaining order through discussions. They were called “Iga-shu” referring to the Iga clan by people of other regions. Iga-shu were hired by various provinces for their special tactics at times of war such as sneaking into the opponent’s castle.
Members of the clan had a strong bond and gathered to discuss and make decisions on various matters. Kasuga-jinja Shrine was a place for the Iga clan to gather and hold such discussions.