What other travelers are saying about Toshodai-ji Temple
An incredibly ancient temple where you can see the traces of history etched into the wooden beams. Inside the main hall stands a magnificent and awe-inspiring Great Buddha that truly moves the heart. There’s a small trail at the back leading to a memorial site for the Sixth Patriarch. It’s not the easiest place to reach, but absolutely worth the trip.
Cherry Blossom season is quiet compared to other crowded sites, it’s relaxing & zen.
The Tang Dynasty Chinese Buddhist Master 鉴真大和上 tried to cross the ocean 6 times & finally successfully reached Japan after so many years of failed attempts & loss of his closest friends, his determination & bravery to spread architectural, medicine etc knowledges & wisdoms & peace beyond borders was selfless & significant even after 1300 years…
Truly a master of pure heart & kindness!
Toshodai-ji Namdaimon (Grand South Gate) is an impressive architectural feature located at the entrance to Toshodai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Nara, Japan. Founded in 759 by the Chinese monk Ganjin, Toshodai-ji is renowned as a pivotal center for the introduction of Ritsu Buddhism to Japan, and the Namdaimon serves as a symbolic threshold to this historic and sacred site.
The Namdaimon exemplifies traditional Japanese Buddhist gate design, blending simplicity and grandeur. Constructed primarily of wood, the gate reflects the architectural elegance of the Nara period (710–794), with its harmonious proportions, tiered roof, and detailed carvings. It stands as a testament to the master craftsmanship of the era, embodying both structural strength and spiritual significance.
As visitors pass through the Namdaimon, they are greeted by an atmosphere of tranquility, signaling their transition from the secular world to the sacred precincts of the temple. The gate’s large, open design invites light and air, creating a welcoming and serene environment that complements the temple’s ethos of harmony and mindfulness.
The Namdaimon also serves as a prelude to Toshodai-ji’s treasures, including the Golden Hall (Kondō) and the Lecture Hall (Kōdō), which house magnificent statues and artifacts. While often overshadowed by these landmarks, the Namdaimon remains a vital part of the temple’s identity, standing as a symbolic guardian of its cultural and spiritual heritage, and an enduring connection to Nara’s historical legacy.
It’s a bit out of the way but reachable by train. Love this old Nara temple. Don’t miss the moss garden, it’s magical. The atmosphere is calming, spend the time to soak in the serene environment and walk around the gardens. UNESCO Heritafe site that’s not inundated with crowds, one of the highlights of my Japanese trip.
One of the “Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara”, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was my first time seeing a thousand-hand Buddha. All arms carved in wood.
It offers a piece of history in the nation building of Japan, especially Buddhism, before Kyoto (Heian-kyo) was established.
