川原寺跡
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Kawaradera Temple Ruins

4
·105 reviews·Asuka, Japan

Explore the vast ruins of one of Asuka's great temples, imagining its former glory from ancient foundation stones.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Pleasant weather for exploring

CrowdLow
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川原寺跡

Kawaradera Temple Ruins

Best Time

Spring mornings

Pleasant weather for exploring

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the vast ruins of one of Asuka's great temples, imagining its former glory from ancient foundation stones.

4
(105 reviews)

"I was deeply moved when I imagined the scale of this ancient temple!"

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The ruins are spread out, so comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the vast grounds.

🍽️ Reserve Dining

Lunch is available, but reservations are typically required. Plan ahead to avoid disappointment.

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Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4 · 105 reviews

Type

Place of Worship

👶 Good for kids

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Foundation Stones

Foundation Stones

Main temple grounds

Gaze upon the massive foundation stones that reveal the immense scale of this ancient temple.

Reddit
Statues of Jikokuten and Tamonten

Statues of Jikokuten and Tamonten

Main Hall

Admire these important cultural properties, dating back to the Kōnin period.

Reddit
Bamboo Lighting

Bamboo Lighting

Temple grounds (seasonal/event-based)

Experience a mysterious atmosphere with beautiful, ethereal bamboo lighting.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Scale of History

Kawaradera Temple Ruins are vast, and while rebuilt structures are minimal, the foundation stones hint at its former grandeur. Imagine the scale of this ancient temple as you explore the grounds. Reddit

Plan for Dining and Activities

While lunch is available, reservations are often required. Consider booking in advance if you wish to dine at the temple or participate in activities like sutra copying. Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Beautiful foliage and mild temperatures
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The ruins are spread out, so comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the vast grounds. Reddit

🍽️ Reserve Dining

Lunch is available, but reservations are typically required. Plan ahead to avoid disappointment. Reddit

📜 Sutra Copying Experience

Consider booking a sutra copying experience for a unique cultural immersion. Reddit

📸 Capture the History

While projection mapping might not be the main draw, the historical significance is immense. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The ruins are spread out, so comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the vast grounds. Reddit

🍽️ Reserve Dining

Lunch is available, but reservations are typically required. Plan ahead to avoid disappointment. Reddit

📜 Sutra Copying Experience

Consider booking a sutra copying experience for a unique cultural immersion. Reddit

📸 Capture the History

While projection mapping might not be the main draw, the historical significance is immense. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4
(105 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors appreciate the historical significance and the serene atmosphere of Kawaradera Temple Ruins, with many moved by the scale of the foundation stones. The friendly staff and the option for lunch add to the positive experience, though the lack of extensive rebuilt structures might surprise some. Reddit

"We had a very good lunch overhere. The location is very nice, overlooking the ricefeelds.
Very friendly staff."

Herman Lubbersen

"2019/2/18 Visit

Nanbu Wa Saigoku 33 Kannon Sacred Sites Temples
(Yamato Saigoku 33 Kannon Sacred Sites)

Since I was a child, I have often visited Yamatoji on excursions, and I have been to Asuka many times, but this was my first time to visit Kawara Temple.

When I asked the chief priest who dealt with this issue, he said with a wry smile that there were many people who said that. Although the ruins are spread out over a vast area, there is no sign that they will be rebuilt for a long time, and I would like them to start building with a wall, just like the ruins of Heijokyo.
I think it's a very historically important site.
I would like more people to visit this shrine.
According to Furekomi, you can eat at the temple, but reservations are required for now."

山根法見

"I visited the temple in March 2018. This is probably my third time. Kawaradera is an old name, and its current official name is Buddha-san Kofuku-ji. Kawaradera was one of the four great temples of Asuka, built in the mid-7th century, but there are many unknowns about its founding. It is said that in 673, this temple was the first place in Japan where sutras were copied. Later, in the 9th century, Kobo Daishi, who was granted this temple by the Imperial Court, used it as a lodging when traveling between Kyoto and Koyasan. It was later destroyed by fire in 1191. The statues of Jikokuten and Tamonten currently enshrined in the main hall were made in the Kōnin period and are designated as Important Cultural Properties. It seems that you need to make a reservation, but you can experience copying sutras."

円座厚司

What People Like

Vast foundation stones
Historical significance
Serene atmosphere

What People Dislike

Minimal rebuilt structures

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kawaradera Temple Ruins are located in Asuka, Nara Prefecture. Access typically involves taking a train to a nearby station like Asuka Station on the Kintetsu Line, followed by a bus or taxi. Renting a bicycle is also a popular way to explore the Asuka region and reach the ruins. Reddit

Yes, public transport is available to reach the Asuka region. From Asuka Station, local buses or taxis can take you to the temple ruins. Cycling is also a highly recommended and convenient option for navigating the area. Reddit

Many visitors find that renting a bicycle is the most enjoyable and flexible way to explore Asuka and reach sites like Kawaradera Temple Ruins. This allows you to set your own pace and stop at various points of interest. Reddit

Parking is generally available for visitors driving to Kawaradera Temple Ruins, though specific details might vary. It's advisable to check local signage or inquire upon arrival. Reddit

While possible, walking from Asuka Station to Kawaradera Temple Ruins can be a considerable distance. It's more common for visitors to use a bus, taxi, or bicycle for a more efficient journey. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The opening hours for Kawaradera Temple Ruins can vary, and it's best to check the official website or local information for the most up-to-date times. Generally, historical sites are open during daylight hours. Reddit

Information regarding admission fees for Kawaradera Temple Ruins is not consistently available in general reviews. It's recommended to verify this upon arrival or check official sources. Reddit

For general entry to the ruins, advance booking is typically not required. However, if you plan to participate in specific activities like sutra copying or dining, reservations are often necessary. Reddit

While not always highlighted, historical sites like Kawaradera Temple Ruins may host special events or exhibitions. Checking local event listings or the temple's official announcements is advisable. Reddit

If tickets are required, they are usually purchased on-site at the entrance. For special activities or dining, direct booking with the temple administration is the standard procedure. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

At Kawaradera Temple Ruins, you can explore the vast foundation stones that hint at the temple's former scale, admire the statues of Jikokuten and Tamonten, and experience the serene atmosphere. The site offers a glimpse into Japan's ancient history. Reddit

To fully appreciate the scale and historical significance, allocate at least 1-2 hours for exploring Kawaradera Temple Ruins. This allows time to wander the grounds and absorb the atmosphere. Reddit

Information on official guided tours is not widely available. However, you can enhance your understanding by researching the history beforehand or hiring a local guide if available in the Asuka region. Reddit

Yes, Kawaradera Temple Ruins offer opportunities for photography, especially capturing the historical remnants and the surrounding landscape. The bamboo lighting events can also be particularly photogenic. Reddit

Kawaradera was one of the four great temples of Asuka, built in the mid-7th century. It's historically significant as potentially the first place in Japan where sutras were copied and was later used by Kobo Daishi. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, lunch is available at Kawaradera Temple, but reservations are typically required. It's best to contact the temple in advance to confirm availability and make a booking. Reddit

Reviews suggest that lunch is offered, often with a view overlooking rice fields, indicating a potentially traditional Japanese meal. Specific menus are best confirmed directly with the temple. Reddit

The Asuka region offers various dining options, including restaurants and cafes. Exploring the surrounding area can provide more choices if you don't dine at the temple itself. Reddit

While not explicitly mentioned, picnicking might be possible in designated areas. However, it's always respectful to check temple guidelines regarding food consumption on the grounds. Reddit

Dining hours at Kawaradera Temple are not specified in general reviews. It's crucial to inquire about meal times when making your reservation. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The expansive foundation stones offer a dramatic backdrop for photos. The statues of Jikokuten and Tamonten are also key subjects. Consider the surrounding natural landscape for scenic shots. Reddit

Drone usage is often restricted at historical and religious sites to preserve the atmosphere and prevent disturbance. It's best to assume it's not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise. Reddit

Generally, photography is allowed for personal use, but flash photography might be restricted inside buildings where artifacts are displayed. Always be mindful of signage and respect the sanctity of the site. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more atmospheric glow. Consider the season for potential foliage or special lighting events. Reddit

Yes, special events like bamboo lighting are often highlighted for their visual appeal and are excellent opportunities for photography. Be prepared for potentially larger crowds during these times. Reddit

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