Temple · Katsuragi
Taimadera Temple 當麻寺
Ancient temple at the foot of Mount Nijo with the only pair of Nara-period East and West pagodas surviving in Japan, both National Treasures.
Hours9:00-17:00
PriceThree main halls: ¥500
Naka-no-bo: ¥1,000
Naka-no-bo: ¥1,000
Getting thereKintetsu Taimadera Station, 15 min walk
Time needed1-2 hours
Best timeLate April (peonies); April 14 (Nerikuyo)
Address1263 Taima, Katsuragi, Nara 639-0276
Websitetaimadera.org
About
Taimadera is known for the Taima Mandala and the legend of Princess Chujo. Its East and West three-storied pagodas are the only surviving pair of pre-Heian twin pagodas in Japan. Sub-temples such as Naka-no-bo offer a celebrated garden and sutra-copying experiences.
Highlights
- East and West three-storied pagodas (National Treasures)
- Mandala hall with the Taima Mandala
- Naka-no-bo garden (National Place of Scenic Beauty)
- Nerikuyo procession on April 14
Tips
- Main halls and Naka-no-bo are ticketed separately
- Peonies bloom in late April
- Shakyo and shabutsu (Buddha drawing) can be tried at Naka-no-bo
Open in Google Maps · Info checked 2026-10-11
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