Todai-ji (Todai-ji Temple)
とうだいじ
The head temple of the Kegon sect, founded through the devotion of Emperor Shōmu. It is a World Heritage site featuring the "Great Buddha of Nara" as its primary object of worship.
Overview
The head temple of the Kegon sect, where the decree to construct the Great Buddha was issued in 743 CE (Tenpyō 15) by Emperor Shōmu, and the opening ceremony (Kaigen Kuyo) was held in 752 CE (Tenpyō-shōhō 4). The primary object of worship is Rushanabutsu (the Great Buddha of Nara), which stands approximately 15 meters tall (about 18 meters including the bronze pedestal). As the Sōkokubun-ji, it stands at the pinnacle of the provincial temples across Japan. It was registered as a World Heritage site in 1998 as part of "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara." The Shuni-e (Omizutori) held in March is Todai-ji's largest event, which has continued uninterrupted for over 1,270 years.
Enshrined deity / legend
Rushanabutsu (the Great Buddha of Nara)
Highlights
- ・The "Great Buddha of Nara" (approx. 15m tall) and the Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall), one of the world's largest wooden structures
- ・Nandaimon (Great South Gate), a National Treasure built in the Daibutsu-sama style during the Kamakura period
- ・Nigatsu-do and the Shuni-e (Omizutori) held in March
- ・The Sōkokubun-ji (the primary provincial temple) of Emperor Shōmu
Details may change. Please check official sources before visiting.