ABOUT
About this spot
Irie Taikichi was a photographer who photographed Nara's beautiful nature and Buddhist statues for more than half a century. This "Irie Taikichi Memorial Nara City Museum of Photography" collects and exhibits about 80,000 of his works. Located in a quiet residential area adjacent to Shin-Yakushi-ji, the building designed by architect Kisho Kurokawa has a unique structure with most of it placed underground out of consideration for the surrounding scenery. With its beautiful exterior reflected in the water, the building itself can be enjoyed as art. Inside, through photographs full of the charm of "Yamato-ji," which Irie loved, you can deeply feel the history and spirituality of Nara. The quiet beauty overflowing from the works will make you forget the bustle of daily life. It is ideal for viewing at leisure on a weekend solo trip or for enjoying a grown-up date in a calm atmosphere. After viewing, we also recommend relaxing while looking at the garden from the lounge in the museum. If you stop by together with a stroll around Naramachi, you will surely rediscover Nara's charms more deeply.
Last updated March 26, 2026