Nara National Museum

Located in the Nara City Center area of Nara, Nara, Japan, the Nara National Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in Japanese culture and history. The museum was established in 1889 and houses a vast collection of Buddhist art and artifacts.

The museum is located at approximately 34.6836° N, 135.8390° E.

Exhibits

The museum has a permanent collection of over 12,000 items, including sculptures, paintings, calligraphy, and other decorative arts. The collection spans from the 7th century to the present day and includes pieces from all over Japan.

One of the most famous pieces in the museum is the Tamamushi Shrine, a small wooden shrine covered in iridescent beetle wings. The shrine dates back to the 7th century and is considered one of the most important examples of early Japanese art.

The museum also has a rotating schedule of special exhibitions, which showcase different aspects of Japanese art and culture. Past exhibitions have included traditional Japanese ceramics, samurai armor, and contemporary Japanese photography.

Visiting

The museum is open daily from 9:30am to 5pm, except for Mondays and during the New Year holiday period. Admission is 520 yen for adults and 260 yen for students. Audio guides and guided tours are available for an additional fee.

The museum is easily accessible by train or bus from Nara Station. From the station, it is a 20-minute walk or a short bus ride to the museum.

Overall, the Nara National Museum is a fascinating and informative destination for anyone interested in Japanese art and culture. Don't miss it on your next trip to Nara!