Welcome to the library affiliated with Tenri University. Anyone aged 15 and older is invited to enter and browse the collections.

The stone monument in front of you honors Isonokami no Yakatsugu, who was connected to the Isonokami Jingu Shrine. In the Nara Period, he established Japan's first public library, "Untei," promoting access to learning. The library continues this tradition by being open to everyone.

With over 1.5 million volumes, the collection is the largest per student in Japan and includes more than 90 national treasures and important cultural properties. The library is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and researching these valuable resources for future generations.

Opening in 1930, the library began as a collection of language and cultural materials for overseas missionary work, inspired by the Tenri Foreign Language School. After the war, they expanded to include Japanese classics and ancient documents that were at risk of being lost overseas.

Inside, you’ll find a serene atmosphere that reflects a blend of history and elegance. The Western-style hall retains its original chandeliers and marble counters, while the reading room features tall, double-glazed windows that provide a focused reading environment and a quiet atmosphere.

Be sure to take a moment to pick up a book during your visit. "Yamato Meisho Zue, Vol. 4," for example, is a guidebook to Nara from the Edo Period, illustrating places like Isonokami Jingu Shrine and Uchiyama Eikyu-ji Temple with delicate brushwork. If you encounter any difficulties with the text, our staff is available to assist you with reference books.

As you explore the drawings, you may find a connection between the travelers depicted and your own experiences. Enjoy your visit as you reflect on your journey and see how past and present intertwine.

*Photography and recording are prohibited inside the museum. Please be considerate to maintain the quiet space.