Visit Nara National Museum for a treasure trove of ancient and religious art spread throughout four architecturally striking buildings. Peruse one of Japan’s most complete collections of Buddhist sculpture. Marvel at examples of Japanese National Treasures, calligraphy and decorative arts. Glimpse the interior of an Edo-era teahouse outside the main buildings.
Start at the permanent collection, inside the French Renaissance-style Nara Buddhist Sculpture Hall. It features a rotating display of Buddha and bodhisattva statues that date from the Asuka (A.D. 538 to 710) to Kamakura (A.D. 1185 to 1333) periods. Among them are Japanese National Treasures such as the 9th-century Standing Yakushi Nyorai and Hachiman Triad. Admire Chinese bronze objects donated by the acclaimed collector Sakamoto Gorō.
A passageway connecting the main building to the museum’s side wings has wall panels in English about the history of Buddhist art. Attend special events in the East Wing, such as the annual fall exposition of treasures from the Shōsōin Repository. The exhibition’s clothing, furniture, cookware and musical instruments include items that are more than 1,000 years old. Highlights are calligraphy from Nara’s Tōdai-ji Temple and artifacts recovered from the Silk Road.
More artwork from the permanent collection decorates the West Wing. Browse Nara-era archaeological relics, calligraphy and paintings. See the Hassōan Teahouse, which originally stood in the Kōfuku-ji temple complex and is now used for private tea ceremonies, haiku poem recitals and flower arranging. The Buddhist Art Library holds hundreds of thousands of books, magazines and photographs available for the study of Buddhist art.
The museum stands on the southwestern side of Nara Park. Travel by public bus to the Himuro Shrine and Kokuritsu Hakubutsukan stop. Alternatively, walk for about 15 minutes from Kintetsu-Nara Station.
Nara National Museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday and has an admission fee. Opening hours are extended on Friday and Saturday. Access the interconnecting passageway for free. Check the museum’s official website for information about current exhibitions and admission-free days throughout the year.
