Nara National Museum: A Sanctuary of Buddhist Art
Discover ancient Buddhist art and cultural treasures at the Nara National Museum, a historical gem in the heart of Nara Park.
The Nara National Museum, nestled in Nara Park, is a treasure trove of Japanese Buddhist art. Established in 1889, the museum showcases a vast collection of Buddhist sculptures, paintings, and artifacts, reflecting Japan's rich religious heritage and Nara's pivotal role as the nation's former capital.
A brief summary to Nara National Museum
- 50 Noboriojicho, Nara, Noboriojicho, Nara, 630-8213, JP
- +8150-5542-8600
- Visit website
- Tuesday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Check the museum's official website for information on special exhibitions and events during your visit.
- Allow ample time to explore the museum's extensive collection, including the Nara Buddhist Sculpture Hall.
- Take advantage of the English-language signage and volunteer guides to enhance your understanding of the exhibits.
- Visit the museum shop for unique souvenirs and art books related to Buddhist art and Nara's cultural heritage.
Getting There
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Walking
From Kintetsu Nara Station, walk east on Noborioji Street for about 15 minutes to reach the Nara National Museum. The route is straightforward and well-marked, allowing you to enjoy the scenic surroundings of Nara Park. There are no costs associated with walking.
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Public Transport
From JR Nara Station or Kintetsu Nara Station, take the Nara City Loop Line Bus No. 2 (Clockwise Route) to the Himuro Shrine/National Museum stop. The bus ride takes approximately 6-9 minutes. The fare is ¥220. Alternatively, take the Nara City Loop Line bus to the Daibutsuden-mae Parking Lot bus stop and walk 5 minutes to the museum.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available from both JR Nara Station and Kintetsu Nara Station. A taxi ride to the Nara National Museum takes only a few minutes. The estimated cost from Nara Station is ¥1,400–¥1,700.
Discover more about Nara National Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Asajigahara Enchi
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Ban Inoue Todaiji
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Tobihino
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Todaiji Nandaimon (Great South Gate)
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Ukimido
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Sagiike pond
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Noborioji Park
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Kasuganoenchi
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Todaiji Honbo (Abbot's Quaeters, Temple Office)
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Rokuen Park
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Kofuku-ji Gojunoto (Five Story Pagoda)
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Todaiji Kondo Hakkaku Toro (Bronze Octagonal Lantern)
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Todai-ji Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall)
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Nara Prefecture Visitors Bureau
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Sarusawa-ike Monument
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Unmissable attractions to see
Kataoka Bairin
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Yoshikien Garden
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Todai-ji Namdaimon (Grand South Gate)
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Ukimido Pavilion
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Isuien Garden and Neiraku Museum
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Todai-ji Museum
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Sagi Pond
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Nara Park
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Kofuku-ji Kokuhokan (National Treasure Hall)
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Manyo Botanical Gardens
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Kofuku-ji
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The Garden of the Former Daijyo-in Temple
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NARA Visitor Center & Inn
0.7 km
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Tōdai-ji
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Chayama-enchi
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Essential places to dine
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Restaurant Naraya Todaiji
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Happy Kitchen Kin-no-shika
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Miyama
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Yokyoan Honten
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Kamameshi Shizuka Kouen-ten志津香
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Monsieur Pépé
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Uma-no-me
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akordu
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滴翠
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Main Dining Room 'Mikasa'
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Vegan Cafe Ramuna
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RAhOTSU
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La Terrasse
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Rokumeien
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Museum Shop, Nara National Museum
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Yumekaze Plaza
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Nara-miyage hyakka-shoten
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NARA MEIHINKAN
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Imanishi-kyorindo
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Risky
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Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten - Nara Flagship Store
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Nara Higashimuki Shopping Street
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Higashimuki Shopping Street
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Sanrakudo Higashimuki
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Spark
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Mochiido Center Town
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Ezuya
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Shimomikado Shopping Street
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Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten Branch Souvenir Nara Sanjo
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
ザ・バー
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M's Bar
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blue note Naramachi
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SK Music At Brazilian Bar
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Salon des vins Sève
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Amberjack
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ダルウィニー
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Savant
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Music Bar Reciaffe
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Light
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shisha&bar vanguard
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LAMP BAR
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AUTHENTIC TABLE TAVERN
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Woo Koo Bar?
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