Nara, Japan – In response to rising costs, the historic Horyu-ji Temple in Nara Prefecture, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has announced plans to increase its entrance fees starting March 2024. The adjustment is aimed at addressing the impacts of inflation and the increased labor costs associated with the maintenance and management of the temple’s cultural properties.
The temple, which is renowned for its ancient architecture and Buddhist art, has been facing financial strain due to the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on tourism and the rising costs of maintaining its cultural heritage. The new fees will apply to all visitors aged 13 and above, with a significant increase for adults, university students, and high school students.
As of March 2024, the new ticket prices will be as follows:
- Adults: 2000 yen, up from the previous 1500 yen
- University Students: 2000 yen, an increase from the previous 1500 yen
- High School Students: 2000 yen, up from the previous 1500 yen
- Junior High School Students: 1700 yen, an increase from the previous 1500 yen
- Elementary School Students: 1000 yen, up from the previous 750 yen
Additionally, group tickets for 30 or more people will see an increase, with each individual’s fee potentially rising by up to 400 yen.
The decision to raise the entrance fees was made after careful consideration, according to the temple’s management. They explained that the increase was necessary due to the significant decrease in visitor numbers since the onset of the pandemic. The reduced tourism has led to a decrease in revenue, while the costs of maintaining the temple’s cultural assets, such as the famous wooden structures and valuable Buddhist sculptures, have continued to rise.
Moreover, the increased labor costs, including those associated with the maintenance of the temple and its surrounding buildings, have further exacerbated the financial situation.
It’s worth noting that Horyu-ji is not alone in adjusting its fees. Other historical sites in Nara, such as the Kasuga Taisha Shrine and the Todai-ji Temple, have also raised their entrance fees in recent years. The Kasuga Taisha Shrine, for example, increased its fees in April 2023, while the Todai-ji Temple raised its fees earlier this year.
The decision to increase fees at Horyu-ji is part of a broader trend in Japan, where many cultural institutions and historical sites are struggling to maintain their heritage amidst rising costs and a decrease in tourism revenue. As such, the adjustment is seen as a necessary measure to ensure the long-term sustainability of the temple and its ability to preserve its invaluable cultural treasures.
The increase in entrance fees is expected to provide the temple with additional financial resources to continue its conservation efforts and maintain the site for future generations. While the new fees may be a deterrent for some visitors, the temple’s management hopes that the appreciation of its historical significance will outweigh the inconvenience of the higher costs.
In conclusion, the upcoming increase in entrance fees at Horyu-ji Temple is a direct response to the challenges faced by cultural institutions in Japan. The temple’s management is hopeful that the adjustment will help ensure the preservation of this important historical site for years to come.
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