History:

is a Buddhist temple compound associated with Prince Shotoku, a famous figure in Japanese history who is noted for his support of Buddhism. It is located in Asuka-mura, Nara Prefecture, Japan. The temple was originally founded in 588, making it one of the oldest surviving temples in Japan. The current buildings date to the the 12th century, though they have been rebuilt and renovated several times. The temple is known for its structures, which offer insight into the development of Japanese architecture, and its garden containing a moss lawn thought to have more than 1,000 years of history. Asuka-dera is dedicated to the historical figure Prince Shotoku and the Buddhist gods Amida and Kannon. It's also a site of pilgrimage for Japanese Buddhists. Within the grounds, there is an ancient burial mound and a variety of archaeological artifacts, with some dating back to the Asuka period (538-710). A National Treasure Museum is also located on the grounds where various artifacts from the temple are kept. It is one of the best temple in Japan which you must visit.

Facts:

1. Asuka-dera is an ancient temple located in Asuka village, in the Nara Prefecture of Japan. 2. It was established in 588 AD as a memorial to the late Emperor Suiko, and has since become one of the oldest temples in Japan. 3. The temple is best known for its impressive main hall, which houses a large statue of the seated Yakushi Nyorai, a popular Buddhist divinity. 4. There are also several other Buddhist gods enshrined within the hall, as well as various images of other deities. 5. Asuka-dera is the head temple of the Hosso Ryakuha sect of Shingon Buddhism. 6. The grounds of the temple commemorate the various forms of the Seven Lucky Gods, and also feature several stone figures, as well as a historically important garden. 7. The temple is a popular destination among Japanese Buddhists, and draws in crowds of tourists from across the globe each year. Here are some facts about the Japan temple.These facts will help you understand why it is oldest temple list of the best temples in Japan

Worship Method:

Asuka-dera is a Buddhist temple in Asuka Village, Nara Prefecture, Japan. It is famous for having one of the oldest structures in the area, first built sometime during the Asuka period of Japanese history. It is also known as an important site of celebration and worship associated with Buddhism. Worship at Asuka-dera consists of many rituals that take place throughout the year. For example, an Inauguration ceremony is held in April every year, during which formalities such as traditional music, sutra reading, and offering of food and incense are carried out. On New Year's Day (Shōgatsu), a morning service is held from 5:00 am. At that service, worshippers offer food, and take part in rituals such as “taimatsu akikae” (fire branch exchange), during which branches of priestly order are exchanged between priests, and “kan’gyō” (Buddhist recitation ceremony), where monks chant scriptures. Additionally, monthly memorial services and special occasions such as the Dharma Festival in March, the Japan Candle Festival in August, and the annual memorial service for the deceased are also celebrated at Asuka-dera. During these events, worshippers offer incense, incantations, and certain kinds of ceremonial dances. Finally, the temple also offers weekly services in the form of meditation and sutra reading. These are led by the priests and open to all worshippers. This most visited temple in Japan

Opening Timing:

Asuka-dera in Japan is open daily from 8:30 AM- 5:00 PM. The grounds can be accessed until sunset. top temples in Japan

How to reach:

From Osaka 1. Take the Kintetsu Limited Express from Osaka Namba station to Asuka station. The journey will take approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. 2. From Asuka Station, take the Kinki Bus number 56 at “Asuka Guchi” bus stop and get off at “Asuka-dera” bus stop. It will take about 15 minutes. From Nagoya 1. Take the JR Limited Express from Nagoya Station to Gakken-Nara Station. The journey will take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. 2. From Gakken-Nara Station, take the Kintetsu Bus number 89 and get off at “Asuka-dera” bus stop. It will take about 25 minutes. famous temples in Japan