Nishinokyo and Ikaruga World Heritage Course Yakushiji Toshodaiji Horyuji

A short trip beyond the busy Nara Park opens up a world of quiet ancient temples. Yakushiji and Toshodaiji in Nishinokyo, and Horyuji, home to some of the worlds oldest wooden buildings. This calm one day course is perfect for anyone who wants to savor Buddhist statues and architecture at a relaxed pace.

Course Route

9:00 Start at Kintetsu Nishinokyo Station About 15 minutes from Kintetsu Nara Station on the Kashihara Line. Yakushiji is right by the station.

9:10 Yakushiji A grand temple where the East Pagoda in the Hakuho style stands beside the vivid West Pagoda. The Yakushi triad in the main hall is also a fine sight. About one hour.

10:30 Toshodaiji About a 10 minute walk north from Yakushiji. Founded by the monk Ganjin, its main hall is a sturdy example of Tempyo era architecture. Walk slowly through the peaceful grounds. About one hour.

12:00 Lunch near Nishinokyo Have lunch at a restaurant near the station and prepare to move on to Ikaruga in the afternoon.

13:00 Travel to Horyuji From Nishinokyo Station take a train and bus, or a local bus, toward Horyuji in Ikaruga. The trip takes about 40 minutes.

13:45 Horyuji A World Heritage site with some of the worlds oldest wooden buildings. Do not miss the West Precinct with its five story pagoda and main hall, and the treasure hall housing the Kudara Kannon. About one and a half hours.

15:30 Chuguji A nunnery next to Horyuji. Sit quietly before the half seated Miroku Bosatsu statue, famous for its gentle smile.

16:15 Bus back from Horyuji Take a bus back toward JR Horyuji Station or Nara Station to end the day.

Highlights

In Nishinokyo you can enjoy the contrast between the graceful silhouette of the Yakushiji East Pagoda and the heavy Tempyo architecture of the Toshodaiji main hall. Horyuji in Ikaruga, linked to Prince Shotoku, amazes simply because its wooden buildings of about 1300 years ago still stand. The expression of the Miroku Bosatsu statue at Chuguji is a masterpiece best seen up close.

Access and Tips

The hub is Kintetsu Nishinokyo Station. Yakushiji and Toshodaiji are walkable. Horyuji is farther, so make good use of the sightseeing loop bus or a local bus. Each temple closes admission around 16:30, so it is best to do Nishinokyo in the morning and Horyuji in the afternoon.

A Quick Tip

The walking distances are short but each temple takes time to view. Limiting yourself to about three temples lets you appreciate each statue and building fully. If you collect temple seals, do not forget your stamp book.