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3 Easy Excursions by Train from Osaka

These three cities in the Kansai region will leave your diary full of memorable entries. Nara Nara is awash with historical temples, shrines and ruins, a legacy from its early influence as the capital of Japan in the 8th century.  Todai -ji Is  the most visited of these temples. It is the home of the seated  Daibutsu  (Great Buddha), one of the largest bronze statues in Japan. It measures an impressive 15 meters in height and and fills the Great Hall (Daibutsuden) with its presence. Two  Bosatsu (Bodhisattva) sit on either side of Buddha.  The  Daibutsuden  is the biggest wooden building in the world though it is much  smaller than the original structure which was razed by fire in 1180 during the Genpei Civil War. Other interesting displays in the Hall are the mock-up model of the temple as it was in the 8th century and gigantic Nio statues. The Nio deities are the traditional guardians of Buddha. They protect the temple from evil spirits and demons. It is a pleasa nt stroll to   Todai

Nara, the Ancient Capital of Japan

As I sleep Facing the city, My Buddhas Stand even in my dreams On an autumn night. Aizu Yaichi, Poet, historian, calligrapher 1891-1956 Daibutsu