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 Nara is chock-full of 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. Bodhisattva Two Bosatsu (Bodhisattva) sit on either side of Buddha. Todai-ji Temple The Daibutsuden is the biggest wooden building in the world under one roof though it is much smaller than the original structure which was razed by fire in 1180 during the Genpei Civil War. Model of Todai-ji One of several interesting displays in the Daibutsuden is the model of Todai-ji as it was in the 8th century. Nio D
“If you reject the food, ignore the customs, fear the religion and avoid the people, you might better stay at home.” - James Michener