[2024 Nara Attraction] Travel Guide for Yakushiji Temple (Updated Nov)
No.10 of Best Things to Do in Nara
Temples
Address:
457 Nishinokyōchō, Nara, 630-8563, Japan
Opening times:
Open tomorrow at 9:00-17:00Closed Today
Recommended sightseeing time:
1-2 hours
Phone:
+81 742-33-6001
Yakushiji Temple
Yakushiji Temple is the head temple of the Hosso sect. It was founded in 680 during the Hakuhou period by Emperor Tenmu to pray for the recovery of his empress (later Empress Jito), and was completed in 697 during the reign of Empress Jito. At that time, its grand temple complex was considered the most magnificent in Japan, with the main hall and pagoda being so beautiful that they were described as 'Dragon Palace architecture.' Later, with the relocation of the capital to Heijo, it was moved from Fujiwara-kyo in Asuka to Heijo-kyo in 718. Although most of the structures were lost due to numerous disasters, except for the East Pagoda, the temple is currently being restored and was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1998.
Access
1-minute walk from Kintetsu Nishinokyo Station
About 40 minutes from Kintetsu Kyoto Station or Kintetsu Osaka Namba Station via Yamato-Saidaiji to Nishinokyo Station
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A deep appreciation for Japan’s Buddhist traditions 🇯🇵
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Visiting Yakushiji Temple offers a journey into Japan's rich spiritual heritage. Established 1,300 years ago by Emperor Tenmu to pray for his consort's recovery, who would later become Empress Jito, this temple is steeped in history. The Yakushi Triad, a set of principal images from the temple's founding, remains a highlight. Renowned as some of the world's most beautiful Buddhist statues, these sculptures captivate visitors with their exquisite artistry. Despite the many natural and man-made disasters that have affected the temple over the centuries, Yakushiji's enduring legacy and serene atmosphere continue to inspire awe and reverence. Exploring this historic site provides a deep appreciation for Japan's Buddhist traditions and cultural resilience.
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Recognize us Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara 🇯🇵
#japantrip
Visiting Yakushiji Temple offers a profound glimpse into Japan's rich cultural and spiritual heritage. Established in 680 by Emperor Tenmu to pray for the recovery of his consort, who later became Empress Jito, this temple boasts a 1,300-year history. Despite enduring numerous natural and man-made disasters that left only the East Pagoda standing, Yakushiji's legacy endures. The original complex, once a magnificent example of "Dragon Palace-style" architecture, has been lost, yet the temple remains a symbol of resilience and devotion. Today, visitors can appreciate the reconstructed buildings and the historical significance they represent. The serene atmosphere and storied past of Yakushiji Temple offer a unique opportunity to connect with Japan's ancient spiritual traditions.
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A must-visit for those exploring Japan’s ancient capitals 🇯🇵
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Visiting Yakushi-ji, one of Japan's most renowned imperial Buddhist temples, offers a profound glimpse into the nation's rich spiritual heritage. Located in Nara, this ancient temple once belonged to the esteemed Seven Great Temples of Nanto. As the headquarters of the Hossō school of Japanese Buddhism, Yakushi-ji stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Buddhist teaching and architecture. The temple complex, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara," features meticulously preserved structures and serene surroundings. Visitors can marvel at the stunning East Pagoda, which symbolizes the temple's historical and cultural significance, making it a must-visit for those exploring Japan's ancient capitals.
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The legacy of the Tang Dynasty, Yakushi-ji Temple, "Sanzo-in Garan", "Hakuho Garan"
Nishikyo, Nara World Heritage Site, here is a temple, Hakuho Garan ticket🎫800, Sanzo-in is currently not open inside, free visit outside.
The Yakushi-ji Temple is all newly built buildings. The Yakushi-ji Temple was completed in Asuka by Emperor Tenmu's vow (680), Emperor Jito's main statue opened his eyes (697), and Emperor Monmu's reign. After that, the capital was moved to Heijo (710), and moved to the current location in 718.
The Yakushi-ji Temple style Daikaran of the two towers in the east and west suffered from multiple disasters, and all the halls turned into ashes. Until the early Showa period, only the East Tower barely survived.
In Showa 42 (1967), the chief priest Takada Yoshiyoshi applied for the reconstruction of the Hakuho Garan through the copying of the sutras, and rebuilt the Golden Hall, West Tower, Middle Gate, Corridor, Lecture Hall, and Dining Hall, restoring the Hakuho Garan building. The beauty of Daikaran is called "Ryugu Zao", spanning 1300 years of history.
In Heisei 10 (1998) December, it was registered as a World Heritage Site.
Here ends at 16.30 in the afternoon🔚