Description
The building of Yakushi-ji was ordered by Emperor Temmu as supplication for his ailing Empress in 680. When he passed away in 698, it was not yet finished. It is not clear whether it was removed to its present location, after the capital at Nara was established, but one date of 718 is possible. Sadly, the pagoda on the eastern side is the only extant structure (finished in 730) which dates to the Nara period. It is noted for that peculiarly Japanese fondness for asymmetrical architecture.
Admission: JPY500