Founded in 756 AD by Empress Kōmyō to house the personal treasures of Emperor Shōmu, this magnificent structure is the world's largest and oldest surviving example of nailless azekura-zukuri log architecture. Its elevated cypress design ingeniously provided natural climate control and earthquake resistance, safeguarding over 9,000 priceless Silk Road artifacts from across Asia for more than a millennium. While its delicate treasures are now safeguarded in modern facilities and showcased during celebrated autumn exhibitions, viewing this legendary storehouse offers a profound encounter with classical Japanese engineering and ancient global history.
- Architecture
- Historical Landmarks
- Ancient Treasures
- Museums
- Silk Road History
- Buddhist Heritage
Swipe more in Nara
tryJP is a swipe deck for Japan places — save spots you like and plan a route.
Open tryJP