Nara National Museum

Super educational and the brochure really broke it down for me - someone who doesn’t have much background knowledge on Buddhism. I would recommend! I came on a Sunday, and there just so happened to be free admission!

Saw the National Treasures exhibition. As per the advice of other reviewers I went late and queues weren’t too bad. Still busy inside. Buddhist sculpture hall is impressive.

This is an art museum that primarily displays Japanese Buddhist art. It was established in 1889, and retains its original building structure and is joined by a new wing that is connected to the original building by an underground passage. Both wings display the museum's permanent collection which includes Buddhist statues, paintings, scrolls and much more.

The Nara National Museum, located in Nara, Japan, is a prominent cultural institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing Japanese art and Buddhist heritage. Established in 1889, the museum is situated in Nara Park, a historic area renowned for its ancient temples, friendly deer, and serene atmosphere. The museum plays a vital role in highlighting Nara’s significance as Japan’s first permanent capital and a cradle of Japanese culture. The museum’s collections are particularly rich in Buddhist art, reflecting the deep spiritual history of the region. Its holdings include statues, paintings, ritual objects, and sacred texts spanning various periods, from the Asuka and Nara periods (6th-8th centuries) to later eras. Among its most notable artifacts are the exquisite sculptures and ceremonial relics that offer a glimpse into the craftsmanship and religious devotion of early Japanese artisans. The Nara National Museum comprises two main buildings: the original Main Hall, a designated Important Cultural Property, and the East Wing, which features a more contemporary design. The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions alongside its permanent displays, drawing visitors from across the globe. A highlight of the museum’s calendar is its annual exhibition of treasures from Tōdai-ji Temple, showcasing priceless artifacts usually kept within the temple’s Great Buddha Hall. This exhibition underscores the museum’s mission to connect the public with the profound cultural and spiritual legacy of Japan. Visiting the Nara National Museum is a deeply enriching experience, offering insights into Japan’s artistic, historical, and spiritual traditions.

We only saw the building during our visit to Nara Park. It is a landmark in the park that can't be missed. We didn't have time to enter the museum to have a look but the building looks pretty nice from outside.

I love visiting the museum today. There are many items from old Japan of interest there. It certainly expanded my knowledge of Japan. It's only roughly $7 Australian dollars to get in and if you are over 70 it's free. You'll need to provide proof!

The Nara National Museum (奈良国立博物館, Nara Kokuritsu Hakubutsukan), located in Nara Park, is an art museum which primarily displays Japanese Buddhist art. Established in 1889, the museum retains its original building and is joined by a new wing that is connected to the original building by an underground passage.

Lots of national treasures and well preserved artifacts on display. Easily spend 1-2 hours looking over everything.

Do you know that Nara was an ancient capital of Japan from 710 to 794? Many temples and shrines are scattered there. Shosoin is a treasure house housing old crafts and arts during the Tempyo era. It is registered as World Heritage. Here in Nara National Museum Shosoin Exhibition is in session now. Until Nov. 12, 2014. This exhibition is annually held from around the late October to former half of November. The term and date differs every year. Admission fee is 1100 yen for adult. You can buy an autumn late discount ticket for 800 yen, which is available from one and a half hours before the closing time. A great number of people nationwide come to see the annual treasures of Shosoin. From the experience that I have been to the exhibition for six times, I found that there were fewer visitors in the latter part of the session than in the former part. Among them it is overcrowded on weekends. So you had better avoid Saturday and Sunday. Evening on weekdays is recommended. It usually closes at six in the evening but is extended until seven on every Friday, Saturday, Sunday and National Holidays. Probably waiting time is 10 minutes or so. It is approx. 15 minutes walk from Nara station of Kintetsu line. On the way to the museum you will find cute and tamed deer. I went here with my husband yesterday. It opens at nine in the morning. Although we arrived here ten minutes earlier than the opening time, surprisingly many visitors formed a long long line!!! It took us 35 minutes to enter the museum. Inside is also full of viewers, viewers, viewers!!! Unfortunately we didn't afford enjoying the treasures such as folding screens, a pair of red leather clogs worn by the Emperor Shomu at the ritual site, mirrors, calligraphies, swords, masks, musical instruments and the like. However, we were impressed by the folding screens depicting a plump woman under a tree. At that time plump women were regarded as beauty and loved by men. Taking photos in the exhibition rooms is prohibited. So it is a pity that I can't show you awesome hidden treasures!! After you watch them, you may have macha and a Japanese confectionery at 500 yen in the beautiful and elaborate Japanese garden annexed.