It is definitely a very serene place. This is one of the most famous temples in Japan with the largest wooden building in the world. It also holds the largest Buddha statue in Japan which is made of bronze and copper. Located in Nara Park in Central Nara it is considered the landmark of Nara which dates back to 742. It was built by Emporor Shomu in faith of stopping an epidemic that spread during the time. In 798 the entire temple compound was completed.
Entrance to the temple is through the 13th century great southern gates called the Nandaimon with two massive guardian statues called the Nio kings guarding it. These statues are more than 8 meters tall and were erected in 1203 under the direction of Abbot Shunjobo Chogen. The beautifully carved details in these statues are very impressive. After entering through these gates proceed towards the main hall known as Daibutsuden where the big bronze Buddha statue is located. This hall was many times destroyed by earthquakes and fires. The present wooden building that stands was constructed in 1709 is only two thirds of the original size. The original building is said to have had two 100 meter high pagodas which was also destroyed by earthquakes. However, don’t be alarmed to see people trying to squeeze through one of the very small holes at the bottom of the rear pillars in the Daibatsuden. The locals believe if a person can squeeze through these pillars that there will be a place in haven for them. I, myself tried and failed!!! So, I believe I am not fortunate enough to go to haven.
The large Buddha statue known as the Daibatsu is in the Daibutsuden, has gone through much trauma over the years. The head was knocked down by an earthquake and the arms were melted by a fire. Only parts of the original Daibatsu that stands today. The present Daibatsu was re-constructed in 1692. This enormous seated Buddha statue is 15 meters tall (total height with the lotus 30mtrs) and the most prominent aspect being the 966 intricately placed bronze balls held as hair. This statue is considered to be one of the greatest creations in Japan for that era. The original statue was completed in 752 and was ceremoniously opened by an Indian monk, standing on a platform painting the Buddha’s eyes with a big paint brush with colorful strings flowing down so that the Emperor Shomu, his wife Empress Komyo and the reigning Empress Kogen along with other dignitaries were also able to participate in the opening ceremony by holding on to the strings. Hundreds of monks attended this ceremony. The gigantic brush is yet preserved to date. During this period this temple was so powerful politically that the capitol was moved from Nara to Nagaoka in 784 to minimize the interferences in political affairs.
When you come out of the Daibutsuden at the bottom of the steps the Octagonal Lantern which is known to have inscriptions that dates back to the original temple can be sighted. Then to the west of the Daibutsuden is the Kaidanin which was constructed in 754. This was Japan’s first and principle ordination hall. Then there is the Hokke-do which is known to be the oldest structure at Tidaiji was believed to be built during 740 and 747.
A very well known ceremony in this temple is the the Shuni-e (Omizutori) ceremony. This ceremony is held in the Nigatsu-do hall. It is in March and it is a ceremony where people can repent their sins. However, when the Omzutori ceremony was first held in 752 it was to pray for good health and against epidemics and natural disasters. It is a very large event that is held in the temple. There are many ceremonies celebrated during the year. If you plan your visit accordingly you can be a part of one of these ceremonies. The festival of ten thousand lanterns being one of my favorites is held in mid August.
