YANT Yamato-Asuka New Tourism

Okadera, A Temple of the Dragon & flowers

Golden Week is Japanese favorite spring holiday week from the end of April to the early May. During this season, in the temple courtyard, the flower pond has been set to welcome us. A Japanese rose~山吹~, Rhododendron~石楠花~, Fringed iris~シャガ~ and Dahlia decorate all around the courtyard which fascinate all travellers. Surprisingly more than 3000 rhododendrons are planted there. It is believed that once the evil Dragon, which harmed people by causing heavy rains, was confined by the priest in the pond. It is hard to imagine the Dragon in this beautiful flourish pond.

Here you can meet the Buddha of Wish-Granting, the largest clay Buddhist statue in Japan. 1200 years ago when it was created, it had been fully painted with multiple colors. Today you could only see part of it.

It is also a good view point. Standing up at the hills of the temple, you can overlook the agricultural rural landscape of Asuka village. It is a good stroll from Ishibutai Kofun. Please visit Okadera temple when you are here in the delightful Spring. Flowers of various colors and gentle looking Buddha will welcome you.

Okadera:https://www.nara-yamato.com/oka/en/

PAGE TOP