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Shabutsu Experience at Taimadera Temple

HOME > Japan’s Local Treasures > Shabutsu Experience at Taimadera Temple

 

Connect to the heart of Buddhism with the tip of a brush at Taimadera Nakanobo Temple in Katsuragi

Katsuragi City, Nara Prefecture

 

 

In Japan, there exists an ancient tradition called “shabutsu” which involves tracing the image of Buddha with a brush and sumi ink in order to connect one’s heart with the Buddha. You can experience this at Taimadera Nakanobo Temple in Katsuragi City.

You may think that shabutsu is simply tracing a picture, but it is more difficult than expected, and it is easy to get lost in time and become totally absorbed in the experience. Freeing your mind from distracting thoughts and turning yourself toward the Buddha will purify you and make your heart feel lighter.

After being engrossed in tracing the image of Buddha, how about a warm cup of matcha? At the study hall of Nakanobo Temple (an Important Cultural Property), you can have a relaxing time enjoying matcha and confectionery sweets while gazing out into the beautiful Japanese garden.

 

How to get there

 

Katsuragi city is about a 1-hour drive from Kansai International Airport. When traveling by train, take the Osaka Metro from Shin-Osaka Station to Tennoji Station (about 25 minutes), walk to Osaka Abenobashi Station on the Kintetsu Minami Osaka Line (about 3 minutes), and then take the train to Taimadera Station (about 40 minutes). The destination is about a 15-minute walk from the station.

 

1263 Taima, Katsuragi-shi, Nara-ken

 

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