Todaiji Temple

Todai-ji Temple traces its origins to 728, when Emperor Shomu built Konshosan-ji in memory of his deceased son. In 741, Emperor Shomu ordered the construction of provincial temples (Kokubunji), and Konshosan-ji became Kinkomyo-ji; around 747, it came to be commonly called Todai-ji. Todai-ji lies on the north side of Nara Park, and many visitors enter from the Nandaimon Gate near the bus stop. Nandaimon was rebuilt in 1203 (Kamakura period) and is Japan’s largest temple gate; the Kongorikishi statues flanking the gate were completed in 69 days by Unkei and Kaikei together with their disciples. The Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall), rebuilt in the Edo period and considered one of the world’s largest wooden buildings, enshrines the roughly 15-meter-tall seated statue of Rushana Buddha, known as the “Great Buddha of Nara.” A pillar to the northeast of the Buddha is carved with a hole the same size as the Great Buddha’s nostril; crawling through it is said to ward off misfortune. Other highlights include Hokke-do (Sangatsu-do), the oldest building in Todai-ji; Nigatsu-do, famous for Omizutori; and the Todai-ji Museum, which exhibits temple treasures such as the Nikko and Gakko Bosatsu.