This museum is devoted to Buddhist art and is divided into two sections. Built in 1894, the Nara Buddhist Sculpture Hall & Ritual Bronzes Gallery contains a fine collection of butsu-zō (statues of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas). Buddhist images here are divided into categories, each with detailed English explanations for an excellent introduction to Mahayana Buddhist iconography. The newer East and West wings , a short walk away, contain the permanent collections (sculptures, paintings and calligraphy) and special exhibitions.
A special exhibition featuring the treasures of the Shōsō-in Hall, which holds the treasures of Tōdai-ji, is held from late October to early November (dates vary slightly each year). The exhibits include priceless items from the cultures along the Silk Road. This exhibit is well worth it, but be prepared for crowds. Admission is ¥1000.
