Swissôtel Nankai Osaka - Luxury hotel - Temples and Religious Sites

NARA

Go beyond the usual and discover Nara’s valued temples and shrines. Plan your visit to uncover spots beyond the usual tourist route.

Todaiji Temple

Typically flocked by tourists, the Todaiji Temple is constantly crowded with visitors hoping to have a look at the giant Daibutsu (Great Buddha), built from 1522-1591.

Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Regarded as one of the “Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara” World Heritage Site, the breathtaking location of the Kasuga Taisha Shrine features the Kasugayama Primeval Forest. The vivid red shrine stands out amidst the dense forest, where tourists are welcome to attend the Chohai, or morning prayer service.

Toshodaiji Temple

Founded by Ganjin Wajo, an abbot from Chang’an, the Buddhist temple of the Risshū sect, features The Classic Golden Hall, regarded as the greatest Tempyo Era structure of the 8^th century which remains in Japan to date.

Yakushi-ji Temple

Considered the headquarters of the Hossō school of Japanese Buddhism, Yakushi-ji is one of the most famous Buddhist temples in Japan, and was previously one of the Seven Great Temples of Nanto in Nara. Constructed in the late 7^th century by Emperor Tenmu for the recovery of the emperor’s sick wife, it features a symmetric layout flanked by two pagodas, with Mt. Wakakusa and Mt. Kasuga in the backdrop making it one of Nara’s highly regarded landscapes.

Horyuji Temple

Said to have been built 1,400 years ago by Prince Shotoku who is known for his early efforts of promoting Buddhism in Japan, for his late father – Emperor Yōmei. It’s architectural structures are considered to be one of the world’s oldest surviving wooden structures – making it Japan’s first UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.

Shinyakushiji Temple

Those looking for a calm and tranquil atmosphere will definitely enjoy Shinyakushiji Temple, opened in 747 by Empress Komyo for the healing of Emperor Shomu’s illness. Enjoy a stroll within the grounds as you make your way to the famed Yakushi Nyorai (the Medicine Buddha) and Buddhist statues

Gango-ji Temple

Previously known as Hokoji Temple (Asukadera Temple), the Gango-ji Temple is considred the oldest Buddhist temple in Japan founded by Soga-no-Umako, a politician from the biggest clan in Japan. The temple is highly regarded as it houses several prestigious National Treasures and important Cultural Assets, all while offering a peaceful and relaxing area for a stroll.

Kofuku-ji Temple

The temple’s pagoda is considered a landmark and a representing symbol of Nara, first built in 730. The temple’s National Treasure Hall houses sculptures to invlude the statue of Ashura, a must-see for visitors coming to Nara.

Saidaiji Temple

Also known as the “Great Western Temple”, this Buddhist temple was once one of the powerfuil Seven Great Temples in the city of Nara. It’s known for the unique tea ceremony held in the grounds, where worshippers are provided with giant teacups which can weigh up to 7 kilograms, during the Great Tea Ceremony (Ochamori).

Hokkeji Temple

The temple offers seasonal flowers to be admired by visitors, all in full bloom in a well-kept flower garden. The temple is usually quiet and peaceful, away from the typical hustle and bustle from the city centre, and offers a glimpse of what was once a nunnery temple. The temple name Hokkeji is roughly translated as the Temple of the Flower of the Law, and was once used as a venue by Empress Komyo to encourage women to practice ikebana, which the Hokkeji Goryu School of Ikebana continues to this day.