Tōdai-ji, Buddhist temple in Nara, Japan
Tōdai-ji is a Buddhist temple complex in Nara whose main hall Daibutsuden stands 48 meters tall and houses a 15-meter bronze statue. The entire compound spreads across multiple buildings including the Nandai-mon gate, a museum, and smaller shrines connected by pathways through lawns and old trees.
Emperor Shomu ordered the construction in 752 to create a central headquarters for Buddhist temples across all provinces of Japan. The hall was rebuilt several times after fires in the 12th and 16th centuries, with the current structure dating from 1709.
The grounds draw daily pilgrims who pray before the Buddha statue and light incense sticks. During the annual Omizutori ritual each March, thousands gather at Nigatsu-do shrine to watch the torch procession.
Access is through the Nandai-mon gate, from where you reach the main hall and additional buildings within the grounds. Weekends and cherry blossom or autumn foliage periods can get crowded, so early morning visits work better.
A wooden pillar in the hall has a hole matching the size of the Great Buddha's nostril, which visitors attempt to crawl through. This custom is believed to bring good fortune and is especially common among children and teenagers who try the challenge.
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