Japan Guide
Nara
Nara National Museum
In the midst of Nara-kōen is a grey, Western-style building, erected in 1894, which houses the main exhibits of the Nara National Museum, Nara Kokuritsu Hakubutsukan. As you'd imagine, the museum's strong point is its superb collection of statues, of which only a small part is on display at any one time. They're arranged chronologically, so you can trace the development of the various styles, and there's plenty of English-language information available. Each autumn (late Oct to early Nov) the museum is closed for two weeks while an exhibition of the Shōsō-in treasures takes place in this annexe. This priceless collection was donated to Tōdai-ji in 756 by Empress Kōmyō, on the death of her husband Emperor Shōmu and then added to with more treasures in 950. It contains unique examples of Buddhist art and ritual objects, musical instruments, household utensils, glassware and games, not only from eighth-century Japan but also from China, Korea, India and Persia. The exhibition takes a different theme each year, so what you see is very much the luck of the draw. In the lower level passageway between the original building and the annexe you'll find an informative display that explains the forms, techniques and other characteristics of Buddhist art. Opening time: Tues– Sun 9am–5pmPrice: ¥500, ¥1000 for special exhibitions 
0742/22-7771 
www.narahaku.go.jp/index_e.html