Asukadera Temple

Asukadera Temple (飛鳥寺) is one of the oldest temples in Japan, located in Asuka, Nara Prefecture. It is believed to have been founded in the late 6th century, possibly by Soga no Umako, a powerful political figure of the time, and is considered an important historical and cultural site in Japan.

The temple complex includes several buildings and structures, including a main hall (hondo), a three-story pagoda, and a hall dedicated to the monk who first introduced Buddhism to Japan. The buildings have been rebuilt several times over the centuries, with the current structures dating back to the Edo period.

One of the most notable features of Asukadera Temple is the Mirokudo Hall (弥勒堂), which houses a statue of Maitreya (Miroku in Japanese), a bodhisattva associated with love and compassion. The statue, known as the Asuka Daibutsu (飛鳥大仏), is believed to be one of the oldest bronze Buddhist statues in Japan, dating back to the 7th century and designated as a National Treasure.

Asukadera Temple also features beautiful gardens, including a pond garden and a dry landscape garden. These gardens are considered to be important examples of early Japanese garden design.

Today, Asukadera Temple remains an active Buddhist temple and is open to visitors. It is an important historical site, said to be Japan’s first official temple, and is associated with notable figures like Soga no Umako and Prince Shotoku. The temple grounds are also said to be the place where Prince Shotoku and Nakatomi no Kamatari first met while playing kemari (a traditional Japanese ball game). Additionally, a five-ringed stupa on the temple grounds is believed to be the tomb of Soga no Iruka.

Asukadera Temple is a testament to the architectural and artistic achievements of ancient Japan, and its cultural and historical significance makes it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring Japan’s rich heritage.

Getting there

By Train and Bus

From Kintetsu Kashiharajingu-mae Station:

• Take the Kame Loop Bus
• Get off at Asuka Daibutsu-mae bus stop
• Journey time: 22 minutes
• Cost: 260 yen
• Frequency: One bus per hour

Details

Hours	April 1st to September 30th / 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM October 1st to March 31st / 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Reception closes 15 minutes before closing time.
Admission	Adults and university students: 350 yen Junior high school and high school students: 250 yen Elementary school students: 200 yen
Phone	+81 744-54-2126
Address	682 Asuka, Takaichi District, Nara 634-0103