What other travelers are saying about Nara National Museum
Saw the National Treasures exhibition. As per the advice of other reviewers I went late and queues weren’t too bad. Still busy inside. Buddhist sculpture hall is impressive.
I love visiting the museum today. There are many items from old Japan of interest there. It certainly expanded my knowledge of Japan. It's only roughly $7 Australian dollars to get in and if you are over 70 it's free. You'll need to provide proof!
We only saw the building during our visit to Nara Park. It is a landmark in the park that can't be missed. We didn't have time to enter the museum to have a look but the building looks pretty nice from outside.
The Nara National Museum (奈良国立博物館, Nara Kokuritsu Hakubutsukan), located in Nara Park, is an art museum which primarily displays Japanese Buddhist art. Established in 1889, the museum retains its original building and is joined by a new wing that is connected to the original building by an underground passage.
The museum is renowned for its comprehensive collection of Buddhist art, including national treasures and important cultural properties. Highlights include the annual Shōsōin Exhibition, which displays rare artifacts from the Shōsōin Treasure House, and the exquisite collection of ancient Buddhist statues.
While the museum itself does not house a café or restaurant, there are several dining options within Nara Park and the surrounding area where visitors can enjoy a meal or refreshments.
To protect the artwork and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors, large bags, backpacks, and umbrellas must be left in the lockers at the entrance. Eating, drinking, and smoking are prohibited inside the museum galleries.
Aside from its famous Buddhist art collection, don't miss the museum's architectural beauty, including the original Meiji Era building and the newer wings. The museum's garden is also a peaceful spot worth exploring, offering a serene environment reflective of the art inside.
