Yakushiji Temple

Yakushiji Temple (薬師寺) is a Buddhist temple located in Nara, Japan. It was one of the powerful Seven Great Temples of Nanto (南都七大寺) in the Nara period. The temple was founded in 680 by Emperor Tenmu in the Fujiwara Palace, praying for the recovery of his ill empress, and was later relocated to its current site in 698. The temple is dedicated to Yakushi Nyorai, the Buddha of Medicine and Healing, and is renowned for its impressive architecture and historical significance.

Yakushiji Temple is particularly famous for its two pagodas, the East Pagoda (東塔) and the West Pagoda (西塔). The East Pagoda, which was rebuilt in 1981, is a faithful reconstruction of the original 8th-century structure and is one of the most iconic landmarks in Nara. The West Pagoda, though it has been rebuilt several times, retains some original elements and is a testament to the temple’s long history.

The main hall, the Yakushiji Kondo (薬師寺金堂), is also an architectural marvel, featuring a unique and elegant design with intricate carvings and decorative elements. It was originally built in the 8th century but was destroyed by fire in the 16th century and subsequently rebuilt.

The temple is home to a collection of important Buddhist sculptures and artifacts, including the bronze statue of Yakushi Nyorai, a National Treasure, and a set of twelve guardian deities known as the Juni Shinsho (十二神将). The temple grounds also include a lecture hall, a sutra library, and a tranquil garden.

Yakushiji Temple is a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site known as the “Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara.” Visitors can explore the temple’s grounds, admire the impressive architecture and statues, and learn about the history and significance of this ancient temple. The temple is located a short distance from other important cultural sites in Nara, including Todaiji Temple and Nara Park.

TOC

Getting there
Details

Getting there

By Train

From Kintetsu Nara Station:

Take the Kintetsu Nara Line to Yamato-Saidaiji Station
Transfer to the Kintetsu Kashihara Line to Nishinokyo Station
The temple is right beside Nishinokyo Station

Total journey time: About 25 minutes
Cost: 300 yen

By Bus

From Kintetsu Nara Station:

Take bus number 72, 78, or 98
Journey time: About 20 minutes
Cost: 270 yen

From JR Nara Station:

Take bus number 72, 78, or 98
Journey time: About 15 minutes
Cost: 270 yen
Bus stops:
Yakushiji (薬師寺): Served by buses 72 and 78
Yakushiji Chushajo (薬師寺駐車場): Served by bus 98

Return Trip to Central Nara

Take bus number 72 or 77 from Nishinokyoeki bus stop (西ノ京駅) twice per hour
Or take bus number 97 from Yakushiji Chushajo bus stop hourly

Details

Hours	8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission	Adults: 1,000 yen Junior high school and high school students: 600 yen Elementary school students: 200 yen
Phone	+81 742-33-6001
Address	457 Nishinokyocho, Nara, 630-8563
Official Website	https://yakushiji.or.jp/