Special Exhibition: Nanto Buddhist Paintings — The Revival of Nara Tenpyo Beauty

Event Overview

In the ancient capital of Nara, known as "Nanto," there exists a profound legacy of Buddhist paintings known as "Nanto Butsuga." During the Nara period, these internationally influenced artworks adorned great temples and set the standard for Japanese Buddhist art for centuries. This exhibition is a groundbreaking attempt to trace the history of these sacred paintings alongside a curated selection of exquisite Buddhist paintings and sculptures.

Of particular note is the "homecoming" of precious Buddhist paintings from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. This international collaboration, realized after 20 years of planning, brings together the world-class collections of both the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, and the Nara National Museum. Visitors will also have the chance to experience the profound history through masterpieces that once graced the interior of the historic Uchiyama Eiju-ji Temple.

Highlights & What to Expect

The greatest draw of this exhibition is the fusion of world-class collections. It is a rare opportunity to see the treasures of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, in a unique dialogue with the masterpieces of the Nara National Museum.

• *International Collection Fusion**: Discover the Buddhist paintings from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, arriving in Nara after 20 years of planning.
• *Evolution of Buddhist Art**: Trace the historical transition from the international aesthetic of the Tenpyo era to the elegant styles of the Heian period and the restorative expressions of the Kamakura period.
• *Memories of Ancient Temples**: Revisit the lost landscapes of ancient temples through the paintings and sculptures that once adorned the halls of Uchiyama Eigu-ji.

Schedule

The exhibition runs from July 18, 2026, to September 13, 2026. The exhibition is divided into two distinct periods:

• *First Period**: July 18, 2026 (Sat) – August 16, 2026 (Sun)
• *Second Period**: August 18, 2026 (Tue) – September 13, 2026 (Sun)

• August 5 (Wed) – August 7 (Fri) and August 9 (Sun) – August 14 (Fri): Open until 18:00
• August 8 (Sat) and August 15 (Sat): Open until 19:00

Venue & Access

The venue is the East and West New Buildings of the Nara National Museum.

【Access】

• Approximately 15-minute walk from Kintetsu "Nara Station."
• From JR Nara Station or Kintetsu Nara Station, take the Nara Kotsu "City Loop" bus (Outer Loop) and get off at "Himuro Shrine/National Museum" stop.

Visitor Tips

This is a highly significant international collaboration with the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Since the exhibition is split into a "First Period" and a "Second Period," we recommend checking the official website in advance to see which specific masterpieces are on display during your visit.

Essentials

• *Payment Methods**: Credit cards (VISA, JCB, AMEX, etc.), electronic money (PayPay, LINE Pay, etc.), and UnionPay are accepted.
• *Tickets & Reservations**: Admission fees are determined per exhibition. Please check the official website for the latest pricing and reservation requirements.
• *Clothing & Comfort**: The museum maintains strict temperature and humidity control to protect the artifacts. Please dress comfortably for the season.