Yatadera Temple

4.2 (200)・Tourist Attraction・Place Of Worship・Point Of Interest・Establishment

Yatadera Temple, also known as Yata-dera, is a serene and picturesque temple located in Nara. Founded in the 7th century, this temple has been a place of worship and contemplation for over 1,300 years, offering visitors a glimpse into Japan's rich spiritual heritage.

What makes Yatadera Temple particularly special is its stunning garden, famous for its hydrangeas. During the early summer months, the temple grounds burst into a vibrant display of colors as thousands of hydrangea flowers bloom, drawing nature lovers and photography enthusiasts from all over. This breathtaking sight creates a tranquil and enchanting atmosphere that enhances the spiritual experience of visiting the temple.

Yatadera Temple is also known for its historical significance in Buddhism. It is dedicated to Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy, and houses several important religious artifacts and statues that attract both devotees and history buffs. The temple's tranquil setting among rolling hills and lush greenery offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling outside world.

Visiting Yatadera Temple provides not only a beautiful natural spectacle but also a chance to connect with Japan's ancient cultural and spiritual traditions. It's a perfect spot for anyone looking to find peace and beauty in a historic setting.

Hours:

8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Closed:

Year-end and New Year holidays

Available:

All year

Minimum Age:

All ages are welcome

Fees:

No entrance fee

Hours

Monday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Thursday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Saturday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Sunday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Phone

+81 743-53-1445

Website

www.yatadera.or.jp

The area

Address

3506 Yatachō, Yamatokoriyama, Nara 639-1058, Japan

Top ways to experience Yatadera Temple

8hrs

Full-Day Private Guided Tour to Nara Temples

From $213 /person

approx. 7-21 days

Ultimate JR Pass – Travel All of Japan Freely

From $198 /person

What other travelers are saying about Yatadera Temple

Such a gorgeous temple a little outside of Nara. My friends and I wore yukata and kimono to go and see the hydrangeas because the temple is famous for it. We took a taxi from Nara station for about 30 minutes both ways. It was about ¥4,500 both ways so I definitely recommend taking a taxi cause the buses can take over an hour.

Brittany Szczesny

Jun 20, 2024

Very nice place! In June-July period, it's really the best time for seeing hydrangea (ajisai) flowers. They also really excited when visit!

Anemone

Jul 1, 2022

Absolutely beautiful. Went on a Saturday (June 18th) and heard it was peak season and it was really pretty. It was crowded as you can imagine, as we heard this year was the first time the gardens opened in 3 years. You’re better off going by bus, since theres limited parking along the slope. You should NOT go with a baby stroller: it’s all slopes and stairs and stone paths. Took my 2 year old there and he refused to be held: he enjoyed the stairs and the stone paths. It was a wonderful experience and the views were just beautiful.