Orders

Asuka-dera Temple

Name: Asuka-dera Temple
Address: 682 Asuka, Takaichi District, Nara 634-0103, Japan
Rating: 4.3

4.3 (200)・Tourist Attraction・Place Of Worship・Point Of Interest・Establishment

Step into the serene world of Asuka-dera Temple, a pivotal site in Japan's rich tapestry of history and religion. Established in the year 596, Asuka-dera Temple is one of Japan's first Buddhist temples, founded during a transformative period when Buddhism was just beginning to take root in the country.

Located in the Asuka region, often regarded as the birthplace of Japanese civilization, the temple was initially constructed under the direction of Prince Shotoku. This influential prince is celebrated for his role in promoting Buddhism across Japan. The centerpiece of Asuka-dera is its majestic Asuka Daibutsu, a giant bronze Buddha statue. This statue is not only one of the earliest of its kind in Japan but also a masterpiece of Buddhist art, illustrating the sophisticated craftsmanship of the Asuka period.

Today, Asuka-dera Temple offers more than historical insights. The temple grounds exude a peaceful ambiance, set against the lush backdrop of Asuka's rolling landscapes, dotted with ancient kofun (tumuli) and historical ruins. This tranquil setting provides a contemplative space for visitors to reflect on the past and the spiritual heritage that shapes present-day Japan.

Hours:

9:00 to 5:30 (Reception closes at 5:15 PM)

Closed:

Year-end and New Year holidays.

Available:

All year

Minimum Age:

All ages are welcome.

Fees:

General/College students: 350 yen

High school/junior high school student: 250 yen

Elementary school student: 200 yen

Hours

Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Phone

+81 744-54-2126

Website

asukamura.com

The area

Address

682 Asuka, Takaichi District, Nara 634-0103, Japan

Top ways to experience Asuka-dera Temple

8hrs

Full-Day Private Guided Tour to Nara Temples

From $217 /person

4hrs

Private Nara - Family Bike Tour with Electric Bikes

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approx. 6hrs

Private Nara - Highlights Bike Tour

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What other travelers are saying about Asuka-dera Temple

Modest but impressive Buddhist temple homing the oldest statue of Buddha in Japan. Complemented by garden and a small museum. Possibility to ring the bell of the temple (with respect.)

Barefoot Centipede

May 16, 2024

Very far off the beaten path (40 minute walk from the nearest train station) but worth the trip. This is the site of the first Buddhist temple in Japan, and home to the oldest Buddha statue in Japan. Unlike most temples, you can take pictures of everything. It's a very simple temple, but the history surrounding it makes the whole place feel almost otherworldly. Buddhism shaped the culture and history of Japan, and that all started right here. If you're spending time in Nara, and you care about Japanese Buddhist history, this is a must visit.

Chefman

Dec 6, 2022

This temple has the oldest Buddha statue in Japan. One side of the Buddha looks strict and the other side looks gentle.

Bruce Tiew

Apr 13, 2023

Probably the oldest temple in Japan in ancient South Nara in Asuka. Well worth the visit for the history.

Marquis

Apr 28, 2017

An amazing place just off the beaten tourist track. I went there with some Japanese people and see it as a very local place to go to and to be honest it is definitely worth the trip it is so complete and it's beauty it is not the oversized monumental temples that in themselves are beautiful but sometimes all to wall tourists this is a very natural. It is touted as one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan and if you get the chance to look around this area it is remarkable as you will see history that is well over 1200 years old. A special place in the hearts of the Japanese people.