The 'Nigyo-seki' stone is a two-faced carving believed to symbolize the Buddhist concept of the coexistence of good and evil within one person.
The temple is built on the ruins of the 'Jo-gu Ojo-in,' the palace where Prince Shotoku was reportedly born.
Tachibana-dera is historically classified as one of the oldest temples in Japan, linked to the initial reception of Buddhism.
The temple contains a large, painted wooden statue of Prince Shotoku which is considered a designated Important Cultural Property.
The temple site was extensively excavated in the 20th century, revealing the layout of original 7th-century structures.
Its location in the Asuka region places it at the epicenter of Japan's first centralized imperial government.
Tachibana-dera is a Buddhist temple in Asuka, Nara, traditionally recognized as the birthplace of Prince Shotoku, the 7th-century regent instrumental in the spread of Buddhism in Japan. The complex belongs to the Tendai sect and stands on the site of the former residence of Prince Shotoku's father, Emperor Yomei. It is best known for the 'Nigyo-seki,' a stone monument carved with two faces representing the dual nature of the human heart, good and evil. Visitors can view a colorful Prince Shotoku statue, which is uniquely carved from wood and depicts the prince at age 35. The temple grounds house several historically significant stone artifacts, including a stone lantern and the remains of a pagoda foundation. Recent excavations have confirmed the temple's roots date back to the Asuka period, aligning with its legendary origins.
The Nigyo-seki (two-faced stone) monument located in the garden area.
Bring a small notebook or coin for the temple's traditional Goshuin seal collection.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the surrounding Asuka area features uneven paths and rural terrain.
Look for the small lotus ponds near the entrance, which bloom beautifully during the summer months.
Do not attempt to walk from central Nara city, as the site is located in a rural district requiring local transport access.
Remove shoes when entering temple buildings; maintain a quiet demeanor; do not photograph indoor statues without explicit permission.
