Todai-ji

If you visit Todai-ji Temple, be sure to meet the Great Buddha. The Great Buddha, which is the world's largest bronze statue, is sure to overwhelm you with its power. The Great Buddha Hall, where the Great Buddha is located, was rebuilt during the Kamakura and Edo periods and its height was reduced to 57 meters from its original height. However, it still attracts tourists from all over the world as the largest wooden structure in the world. While photography is prohibited in some other halls, taking photos without a tripod is allowed inside the Great Buddha Hall!

When it comes to Nara, deer are very famous, but you can also interact with these deer around Todaiji Temple! In particular, at the plaza in front of the Nandaimon Gate, you can feed the deer with deer crackers and enjoy it from adults to children. There is no doubt that you will be healed by the adorable appearance of the deer. The deer at Todaiji Temple are relatively accustomed to tourists, but remember that they are wild animals and be careful not to startle them suddenly. After interacting with the deer, it's recommended to buy souvenirs around Todaiji Temple featuring deer as a memory.

Nigatsu-do Hall at Todai-ji Temple is the perfect place to enjoy the scenery of Nara. From the stage of Nigatsu-do, you can see the mountains of Nara City and the Nara Basin, and depending on the season and time of day, you can enjoy beautiful sunsets. The attraction is not limited to daytime, as at night, numerous lanterns are hung and the scenery transforms into a fantastic view. Additionally, every March, there is an event called "Omizutori," where water is drawn to offer to the Kannon statue. You will surely be fascinated by the powerful ritual involving flames. It is recommended to visit on weekdays if you want to take your time and enjoy the scenery.

When heading towards Todaiji Temple from the bus stop, the first thing you'll see is the Nandaimon Gate. It has existed since the Nara period, and its size is impressive, but what makes it truly powerful are the "Ni-ō" statues located on either side of the gate. The statue on the east side is called Agyō, and the one on the west side is called Ungyō. Their powerful poses and expressions of anger, finely expressed through sculpture, are sure to captivate your attention.

Hokkedo (also known as Sangetsudo) is a space where 10 national treasure Buddhist statues from the Nara period are displayed, conveying the culture of the Tenpyo era. The atmosphere is different from that of the Daibutsuden, and you can feel a solemn and quiet power. This Hokkedo has survived to the present day without being involved in the war, and is considered the oldest building in Todaiji, built in the Nara period. While viewing the exterior is free, the entrance fee is 600 yen for adults (junior high school students and above) and 300 yen for elementary school students.