Japan Guide
Nara
Shin-Yakushi-ji
This quiet temple stands in a courtyard full of bush clover, much as it has done for the last 1250 years. It was founded by Empress Kōmyō to pray for Emperor Shōmu's recovery from an eye infection; she apparently had some success since he lived for another decade. Though the hall may not look terribly imposing, it's the original, and inside you'll find more Buddhist statues of a similar age. The central image is a plump-faced, slightly cross-eyed Yakushi Nyorai (the Buddha of Healing), carved from one block of cypress wood. He's surrounded by clay statues of the Twelve Heavenly Generals; it's worth the walk just to see their wonderful expressions. Opening time: Daily 9am–5pmPrice: ¥600 
0742/22-3736