Nara Prefectural Museum of Art

The culture and history of Nara, Japan’s capital city throughout the 8th century, has significantly influenced the artistic and emotional atmosphere of the country. The power of religious faith permeating Nara City, rooted mainly in the traditions of Shinto and Buddhism, has served Japan’s mentality with a rich sense of spiritual peace and connection with the natural world. This exhibition brings together over 200 traditional and contemporary works featuring calligraphy, paintings, and ceramic items in celebration of Nara and the beauty of prayer. All pieces on display were created by three famous Japanese artists: Ikuo Hirayama, a Nihonga painter known for his dreamy landscapes, Kousho Shimizu, a former superintendent priest of Todai Temple and master painter of religious scrolls, and Kenkichi Sugimoto, who held an affinity for countryside scenes.

Prayer Works Exhibition • Until Mar 15 • Open: 9am–5pm • Closed: Mon • Admission: ¥400 • Access: Kintetsu line, Nara Stn, 5-min walk • Tel: 0742-23-3968 • pref.nara.jp/11842.htm