Todaiji Temple Nigatsudo Hall

Nigatsu-do Hall is located on the eastern side of the Todai-ji precincts and was rebuilt in the Edo period. Like the main hall of Kyoto’s Kiyomizu-dera, it is built in the kake-zukuri (cliffside) style. Standing on high ground and facing west, the stage offers sweeping views over Nara City and a fine sunset. Nigatsu-do is famous for the Shuni-e rite, popularly called “Omizutori,” held in the old lunar February. Shuni-e is a ceremony in which Todai-ji monks repent on behalf of the people and pray for national safety and the happiness of all. It is especially known for the “Otaimatsu,” when attendants called doji carry large torches up to Nigatsu-do. Local tradition says that being showered with the falling sparks brings a year of good health. Shuni-e is held every year from March 1 to 14, but March 12 is particularly crowded because the “Omizutori” water-drawing—fetching water from a well late at night to offer to the hidden Eleven-Headed Kannon—takes place. If you want to see it on that day, plan to arrive early.