Nigatsu-dō

Nigatsu-dō is a wooden Buddhist temple hall on the eastern slope of Mount Wakakusa, linked to the main Tōdai-ji complex by stone pathways. The kakezukuri construction rests on stilts, allowing the platform to float above the sloping terrain and offer a wide view over the city.

Monk Sanetada founded this hall in 752 as part of the religious life at Tōdai-ji. A fire during the ceremony in 1667 destroyed the original structure, which was completely rebuilt by 1669.

The name Nigatsu refers to the second month of the old calendar, when monks carry giant flaming torches across the wooden gallery during the Shuni-e ceremony. The sacred water drawn from a well beneath the building is seen as a symbol of purification and renewal in the faith of visitors.

The building sits at 406-1 Zōshichō in Nara and is open to visitors without an entrance fee, reachable by a walk of about 16 minutes from Kintetsu Nara Station. The climb up stone steps leads through the forest and requires comfortable shoes and some stamina.

Two Kannon statues in the inner sanctuary remain permanently hidden from public view and count as secret Buddha figures. Even the temple priests are allowed to see them only during special religious occasions.

Location: Nara

Inception: 8 century

Architectural style: kakezukuri

Part of: Tōdai-ji

Address: 奈良県奈良市雑司町

Website: http://todaiji.or.jp/english/map05.html

GPS coordinates: 34.68928,135.84428

Latest update: December 14, 2025 20:29