Toshodai-ji Temple

Nara
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Toshodai-ji Temple in Nara City is a masterpiece of Tenpyo architecture, established by the high Tang Dynasty priest Jianzhen (Ganjin), who crossed the seas after overcoming numerous hardships. The National Treasure Main Hall conveys the era's architectural sophistication with its dignified columns. In the back of the precincts lies Jianzhen's tomb, surrounded by a quiet moss garden filled with profound silence and dignity. Its simple beauty, devoid of flashy decorations, feels like the origin of Japanese "Wabi-sabi," fascinating many travelers seeking spiritual peace. It is a supreme sanctuary where one can firsthand feel the unyielding spirit and depth of Buddhist culture Jianzhen brought to Japan.

Favorite

Videos & photographs of cultural properties-Toshodaiji Temple- in Japanese with English subtitles

World Heritage Division, Nara Prefectural Government

Toshodai-ji Temple

Address: 13-46 Gojo-cho, Nara-shi, Nara
Website: http://www.toshodaiji.jp/
Operator: Toshodai-ji Temple

Nearby Spots

Nara

Yakushi-ji Temple

Yakushi-ji Temple in Nara City is the head temple of the Hosso sect, established by Emperor Tenmu to pray for the recovery of his consort from illness. The brilliant vermilion Kondo and West Pagoda landscape is as vibrant as a Dragon Palace, conveying the 1,300-year-old capital's splendor to the present. On the other hand, the "East Pagoda," the only structure existing since the foundation, boasts beauty praised as "frozen music" due to its complex and elegant layered roofs. The principal Yakushi Triad statues are considered masterpieces of Japanese Buddhist sculpture, their merciful expressions calming the hearts of visitors. Sutra copying...

Nara
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Nara

Heijo Palace Site Historical Park

"Heijo Palace Site" in Nara City is the site of the palace that was the center of Japan's capital, Heijo-kyo, 1,300 years ago. Registered as a World Heritage site, the vast grounds feature the majestically restored "Suzaku Gate" and "Daigokuden" (Former Audience Hall), allowing you to firsthand feel the grand scale of the ancient capital. In addition to buildings, there are exhibition halls where you can learn about the history of international exchange such as the Japanese missions to Imperial China, and beautiful reconstructed gardens, ideal for international travelers seeking intellectual journeys. Strolling through the meadow-like historic site under the...

Nara
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Nara

Saidai-ji Temple

Saidai-ji Temple in Nara City is the head temple of the Shingon Risshu sect, which once boasted a massive precinct rivaling Todai-ji. Today, the Main Hall enshrining the Shaka Nyorai statue (an Important Cultural Property) stands within a calm and quiet environment. It is especially famous for the "Ōchamori" (Great Tea Ceremony), a traditional event started by Eison Shonin in the Kamakura period where tea is passed and drunk from a bowl larger than a person's face. This event symbolizes the spirit of "Wa" (harmony) by sharing a bowl of tea among many people and is open to travelers. Unlike...

Nara
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Nara

Saho River

The "Saho River" flowing through Nara City is a beautiful river known as a representative cherry blossom spot of the ancient capital. In spring, approximately 1,000 cherry trees line both banks for about 5 kilometers, creating a pale pink tunnel. There are also ancient "Kawaji-zakura" trees said to have been planted in the Edo period, their powerful yet graceful appearance delivering the excitement of Japanese spring to visitors. The charm lies in enjoying hanami (flower viewing) in a peaceful atmosphere rooted in local life, unlike major temples crowded with tourists. Time spent feeling the cherry blossoms reflected in the water...

Nara
Nature
Spring

Naraに戻る