Kami-no-miya (Shaka Sanzon Butsu) Special Exhibition

Event Overview

At Horyu-ji's Kami-no-miya, a special exhibition is held to showcase the National Treasure "Shaka Sanzon Butsu" (Shaka Triad). This extremely rare Buddhist statue, consisting of Shaka Nyorai, Monju Bosatsu, and Fugen Bosatsu, represents the pinnacle of Japanese Buddhist art. Alongside the historic Kami-no-miya temple structure, it offers a profound look into the spiritual depth of the Heian period. Witness the weight of history in this serene, sacred space.

Highlights

The main attraction is the National Treasure Shaka Sanzon Butsu. The elegant and majestic presence of these figures, which preserve the artistic style of the Heian era, possesses a quiet power that captivates all who see them. Observing the triad emerge from the soft light within the historic architecture of Kami-no-miya is a deeply spiritual experience. It is an opportunity to connect with the profound essence of Japanese culture amidst the beautiful natural surroundings of Horyu-ji.

Schedule

This special exhibition is held on November 1. (Note: In 2021, it ran from November 1 to November 3). The viewing hours are from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. As these special viewing periods are limited, please check the dates in advance to plan your visit.

Venue & Access

The venue is the Kami-no-miya within the Horyu-ji temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture.

• *Access from Stations**: Take a bus from JR Horyuji Station and get off at the "Horyuji Monzen" stop. Alternatively, take a bus bound for Oji from Kintetsu Tsutsui Station and get off at the "Horyuji Mae" stop (approx. 5-minute walk).
• *Parking**: A municipal parking lot is available on-site. Standard cars: 500 JPY; Large buses: 2,800 JPY.

Visiting Tips

Please note that fees for this special exhibition may differ from standard Horyu-ji admission. For this event, the fee is 1,500 JPY for junior high school students and older, and 750 JPY for elementary school students. If you plan to visit other areas of Horyu-ji, we recommend checking the details for combined tickets (East/West Precincts). Please maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor while viewing the statues.

Etiquette & Preparation

As this is a sacred site housing National Treasures, please dress respectfully. We recommend bringing seasonal clothing for comfort. Please check the official website for the latest information on payments and photography rules.