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  • Horyuji Temple was founded by Prince Shotoku in 607, credited with the early propagation of Buddhism in Japan. Horyuji is one of the country's oldest temples with the world's oldest surviving wooden structures. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993. Horyuji's temple grounds are divided into two main precincts, the Western Precinct and the Eastern Precinct   Enclosed by roofed corridors, the Western Precinct is home to the world's oldest surviving wooden structures which are: the central gate Chumon, the main hall Kondo and a five storied pagoda. They were built during the Asuka Period and have never suffered damage or destruction although they have been renovated many times over the centuries. The main hall houses some of Japan's oldest statues of Buddha where visitors can witness the evolution of Japanese Buddha statues which had lost the more East Indian appearance in earlier creations. The Eastern Precinct showcases the octagonal shaped Yumedono Hall of Visions with life size statues of the founding prince surrounded by statues of Buddha and rakan disciples.
    horyu-ji-3.jpg
  • Horyuji Temple was founded by Prince Shotoku in 607, credited with the early propagation of Buddhism in Japan. Horyuji is one of the country's oldest temples with the world's oldest surviving wooden structures. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993. Horyuji's temple grounds are divided into two main precincts, the Western Precinct and the Eastern Precinct   Enclosed by roofed corridors, the Western Precinct is home to the world's oldest surviving wooden structures which are: the central gate Chumon, the main hall Kondo and a five storied pagoda. They were built during the Asuka Period and have never suffered damage or destruction although they have been renovated many times over the centuries. The main hall houses some of Japan's oldest statues of Buddha where visitors can witness the evolution of Japanese Buddha statues which had lost the more East Indian appearance in earlier creations. The Eastern Precinct showcases the octagonal shaped Yumedono Hall of Visions with life size statues of the founding prince surrounded by statues of Buddha and rakan disciples.
    horyu-ji-4.jpg
  • Horyuji Temple was founded by Prince Shotoku in 607, credited with the early propagation of Buddhism in Japan. Horyuji is one of the country's oldest temples with the world's oldest surviving wooden structures. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993. Horyuji's temple grounds are divided into two main precincts, the Western Precinct and the Eastern Precinct   Enclosed by roofed corridors, the Western Precinct is home to the world's oldest surviving wooden structures which are: the central gate Chumon, the main hall Kondo and a five storied pagoda. They were built during the Asuka Period and have never suffered damage or destruction although they have been renovated many times over the centuries. The main hall houses some of Japan's oldest statues of Buddha where visitors can witness the evolution of Japanese Buddha statues which had lost the more East Indian appearance in earlier creations. The Eastern Precinct showcases the octagonal shaped Yumedono Hall of Visions with life size statues of the founding prince surrounded by statues of Buddha and rakan disciples.
    horyu-ji-1.jpg
  • Horyuji Temple was founded by Prince Shotoku in 607, credited with the early propagation of Buddhism in Japan. Horyuji is one of the country's oldest temples with the world's oldest surviving wooden structures. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993. Horyuji's temple grounds are divided into two main precincts, the Western Precinct and the Eastern Precinct   Enclosed by roofed corridors, the Western Precinct is home to the world's oldest surviving wooden structures which are: the central gate Chumon, the main hall Kondo and a five storied pagoda. They were built during the Asuka Period and have never suffered damage or destruction although they have been renovated many times over the centuries. The main hall houses some of Japan's oldest statues of Buddha where visitors can witness the evolution of Japanese Buddha statues which had lost the more East Indian appearance in earlier creations. The Eastern Precinct showcases the octagonal shaped Yumedono Hall of Visions with life size statues of the founding prince surrounded by statues of Buddha and rakan disciples.
    horyu-ji-2.jpg
  • Gangoji was one of the seven great temples of the Heian Period in Nara.  Though it is not as famous as the Big Three: Kofukuji, Todaiji and Horyuji, Gangoji Temple is definitely worthwhile in part because it is free of crowds and tour buses visiting the more famous spots in Nara.   Gangoji lies among narrow streets of the Naramachi district of old Nara and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the most ancient temples in Japan.  Gangoji Temple was originally founded in 588 when Buddhism was in its infancy in Japan and originally established as Hokoji Temple or Asukadera because of its original location near Asuka. The design of the temple has architectural influences from mainland Asia.  Many of the priests who first served as Hokoji were from Korea & China.  When the capital moved to Nara, Hokoji was moved and partly rebuilt then renamed Gangoji. Gangoji’s most noteworthy treasure is the Chiko Mandala named after an abbot of the temple.  The grounds of Gangoji contain many ancient stone lanterns and grave markers, for which it is also famous.
    gangyoji-3.jpg
  • Gangoji was one of the seven great temples of the Heian Period in Nara.  Though it is not as famous as the Big Three: Kofukuji, Todaiji and Horyuji, Gangoji Temple is definitely worthwhile in part because it is free of crowds and tour buses visiting the more famous spots in Nara.   Gangoji lies among narrow streets of the Naramachi district of old Nara and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the most ancient temples in Japan.  Gangoji Temple was originally founded in 588 when Buddhism was in its infancy in Japan and originally established as Hokoji Temple or Asukadera because of its original location near Asuka. The design of the temple has architectural influences from mainland Asia.  Many of the priests who first served as Hokoji were from Korea & China.  When the capital moved to Nara, Hokoji was moved and partly rebuilt then renamed Gangoji. Gangoji’s most noteworthy treasure is the Chiko Mandala named after an abbot of the temple.  The grounds of Gangoji contain many ancient stone lanterns and grave markers, for which it is also famous.
    gangyoji-1.jpg
  • Gangoji was one of the seven great temples of the Heian Period in Nara.  Though it is not as famous as the Big Three: Kofukuji, Todaiji and Horyuji, Gangoji Temple is definitely worthwhile in part because it is free of crowds and tour buses visiting the more famous spots in Nara.   Gangoji lies among narrow streets of the Naramachi district of old Nara and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the most ancient temples in Japan.  Gangoji Temple was originally founded in 588 when Buddhism was in its infancy in Japan and originally established as Hokoji Temple or Asukadera because of its original location near Asuka. The design of the temple has architectural influences from mainland Asia.  Many of the priests who first served as Hokoji were from Korea & China.  When the capital moved to Nara, Hokoji was moved and partly rebuilt then renamed Gangoji. Gangoji’s most noteworthy treasure is the Chiko Mandala named after an abbot of the temple.  The grounds of Gangoji contain many ancient stone lanterns and grave markers, for which it is also famous.
    gangyoji-9.jpg
  • Gangoji was one of the seven great temples of the Heian Period in Nara.  Though it is not as famous as the Big Three: Kofukuji, Todaiji and Horyuji, Gangoji Temple is definitely worthwhile in part because it is free of crowds and tour buses visiting the more famous spots in Nara.   Gangoji lies among narrow streets of the Naramachi district of old Nara and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the most ancient temples in Japan.  Gangoji Temple was originally founded in 588 when Buddhism was in its infancy in Japan and originally established as Hokoji Temple or Asukadera because of its original location near Asuka. The design of the temple has architectural influences from mainland Asia.  Many of the priests who first served as Hokoji were from Korea & China.  When the capital moved to Nara, Hokoji was moved and partly rebuilt then renamed Gangoji. Gangoji’s most noteworthy treasure is the Chiko Mandala named after an abbot of the temple.  The grounds of Gangoji contain many ancient stone lanterns and grave markers, for which it is also famous.
    gangyoji-7.jpg
  • Gangoji was one of the seven great temples of the Heian Period in Nara.  Though it is not as famous as the Big Three: Kofukuji, Todaiji and Horyuji, Gangoji Temple is definitely worthwhile in part because it is free of crowds and tour buses visiting the more famous spots in Nara.   Gangoji lies among narrow streets of the Naramachi district of old Nara and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the most ancient temples in Japan.  Gangoji Temple was originally founded in 588 when Buddhism was in its infancy in Japan and originally established as Hokoji Temple or Asukadera because of its original location near Asuka. The design of the temple has architectural influences from mainland Asia.  Many of the priests who first served as Hokoji were from Korea & China.  When the capital moved to Nara, Hokoji was moved and partly rebuilt then renamed Gangoji. Gangoji’s most noteworthy treasure is the Chiko Mandala named after an abbot of the temple.  The grounds of Gangoji contain many ancient stone lanterns and grave markers, for which it is also famous.
    gangyoji-6.jpg
  • Gangoji was one of the seven great temples of the Heian Period in Nara.  Though it is not as famous as the Big Three: Kofukuji, Todaiji and Horyuji, Gangoji Temple is definitely worthwhile in part because it is free of crowds and tour buses visiting the more famous spots in Nara.   Gangoji lies among narrow streets of the Naramachi district of old Nara and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the most ancient temples in Japan.  Gangoji Temple was originally founded in 588 when Buddhism was in its infancy in Japan and originally established as Hokoji Temple or Asukadera because of its original location near Asuka. The design of the temple has architectural influences from mainland Asia.  Many of the priests who first served as Hokoji were from Korea & China.  When the capital moved to Nara, Hokoji was moved and partly rebuilt then renamed Gangoji. Gangoji’s most noteworthy treasure is the Chiko Mandala named after an abbot of the temple.  The grounds of Gangoji contain many ancient stone lanterns and grave markers, for which it is also famous.
    gangyoji-5.jpg
  • Gangoji was one of the seven great temples of the Heian Period in Nara.  Though it is not as famous as the Big Three: Kofukuji, Todaiji and Horyuji, Gangoji Temple is definitely worthwhile in part because it is free of crowds and tour buses visiting the more famous spots in Nara.   Gangoji lies among narrow streets of the Naramachi district of old Nara and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the most ancient temples in Japan.  Gangoji Temple was originally founded in 588 when Buddhism was in its infancy in Japan and originally established as Hokoji Temple or Asukadera because of its original location near Asuka. The design of the temple has architectural influences from mainland Asia.  Many of the priests who first served as Hokoji were from Korea & China.  When the capital moved to Nara, Hokoji was moved and partly rebuilt then renamed Gangoji. Gangoji’s most noteworthy treasure is the Chiko Mandala named after an abbot of the temple.  The grounds of Gangoji contain many ancient stone lanterns and grave markers, for which it is also famous.
    gangyoji-2.jpg
  • Gangoji was one of the seven great temples of the Heian Period in Nara.  Though it is not as famous as the Big Three: Kofukuji, Todaiji and Horyuji, Gangoji Temple is definitely worthwhile in part because it is free of crowds and tour buses visiting the more famous spots in Nara.   Gangoji lies among narrow streets of the Naramachi district of old Nara and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the most ancient temples in Japan.  Gangoji Temple was originally founded in 588 when Buddhism was in its infancy in Japan and originally established as Hokoji Temple or Asukadera because of its original location near Asuka. The design of the temple has architectural influences from mainland Asia.  Many of the priests who first served as Hokoji were from Korea & China.  When the capital moved to Nara, Hokoji was moved and partly rebuilt then renamed Gangoji. Gangoji’s most noteworthy treasure is the Chiko Mandala named after an abbot of the temple.  The grounds of Gangoji contain many ancient stone lanterns and grave markers, for which it is also famous.
    gangyoji-8.jpg
  • Gangoji was one of the seven great temples of the Heian Period in Nara.  Though it is not as famous as the Big Three: Kofukuji, Todaiji and Horyuji, Gangoji Temple is definitely worthwhile in part because it is free of crowds and tour buses visiting the more famous spots in Nara.   Gangoji lies among narrow streets of the Naramachi district of old Nara and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the most ancient temples in Japan.  Gangoji Temple was originally founded in 588 when Buddhism was in its infancy in Japan and originally established as Hokoji Temple or Asukadera because of its original location near Asuka. The design of the temple has architectural influences from mainland Asia.  Many of the priests who first served as Hokoji were from Korea & China.  When the capital moved to Nara, Hokoji was moved and partly rebuilt then renamed Gangoji. Gangoji’s most noteworthy treasure is the Chiko Mandala named after an abbot of the temple.  The grounds of Gangoji contain many ancient stone lanterns and grave markers, for which it is also famous.
    gangyoji-4.jpg
  • 4. Kofukuji 興福寺 was once an important center for Buddhism in Japan.  Since it was established by the Fujiwara clan who ruled Japan at the time, it also retained influence over the imperial government.  One of the great temples of the Nara Period it features a five storey pagoda and many Buddhist art treasures. Today only a handful of the temple's 175 buildings remain standing, most of which date from the 15th century.  Although its pagoda dominates the scene, octagonal halls contain most of Kofukuji’s treasures, rarely open for viewing.  The Octagonal Halls are noteworthy because of their unique architectural design and part of the Western Japan Pilgrimage of 33 Temples.
    4.NARA-KOFUKUJI-01.jpg
  • 2. Kasugayama Primeval Forest 春日山原始林 has been untouched for thousands of years.  The forest stretches across a large area behind Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Logging and hunting have been prohibited here since AD 841 and this has preserved the forest as a rare ecosystem with over 175 types of trees, rare birds and wild animals including the sacred wild deer that roam around central Nara during the daytime. At night the deer return to Kasuga Forest where they live.
    2.NARA-FOREST-01.jpg
  • 7. Gangoji 元興寺 was one of the great temples of the Heian Period in Nara.  Though it is not as grand as Kofukuji, Todaiji and Horyuji,  Gangoji Temple is comparatively more modest making it free of crowds who will be busy visiting the more famous spots in Nara. Nevertheless, it contains no less than three of Japan’s National Treasures which include its main hall, modest as it may appear.  Gangoji lies among narrow streets of the Naramachi district of old Nara as it was originally founded in 588 when Buddhism was in its infancy in Japan. The temple’s design has architectural influences from mainland Asia and many of the priests who first served here were from Korea & China.  The grounds of Gangoji contain many ancient stone lanterns and grave markers, for which it is famous.
    7.NARA-GANGOJI-04.jpg
  • 7. Gangoji 元興寺 was one of the great temples of the Heian Period in Nara.  Though it is not as grand as Kofukuji, Todaiji and Horyuji,  Gangoji Temple is comparatively more modest making it free of crowds who will be busy visiting the more famous spots in Nara. Nevertheless, it contains no less than three of Japan’s National Treasures which include its main hall, modest as it may appear.  Gangoji lies among narrow streets of the Naramachi district of old Nara. The temple’s design has architectural influences from mainland Asia and many of the priests who first served here were from Korea and China.  The grounds of Gangoji contain many ancient stone lanterns and grave markers, for which it the temple is famous.
    7.NARA-GANGOJI-01.jpg
  • 7. Gangoji 元興寺 was one of the great temples of the Heian Period in Nara.  Though it is not as grand as Kofukuji, Todaiji and Horyuji,  Gangoji Temple is comparatively more modest making it free of crowds who will be busy visiting the more famous spots in Nara. Nevertheless, it contains no less than three of Japan’s National Treasures which include its main hall, modest as it may appear.  Gangoji lies among narrow streets of the Naramachi district of old Nara. The temple’s design has architectural influences from mainland Asia and many of the priests who first served here were from Korea and China.  The grounds of Gangoji contain many ancient stone lanterns and grave markers, for which it the temple is famous.
    7.NARA-GANGOJI-02.jpg
  • 9. Toshodai-ji Temple 唐招提寺 was founded by Ganjin - a Chinese priest invited to Japan by the emperor to train priests and teach Buddhism. Consequently, its influence propagating Buddhism in Japan was monumental.  Ganjin finally arrived in Japan after sseven attempts to cross the South China Sea and eventually went blind. Toshodaiji's main hall was reopened in 2009 after being restoration during which the building was dismantled and reconstructed. The temple's lecture hall was originally at the Nara Imperial Palace and was moved to Toshodaiji. Today, it is the only surviving building of the former palace. North of the temple, the tomb of Ganjin is surrounded by a moss garden.
    9.NARA-TOSHODAIJI-03.jpg
  • Kofuku-ji Pagoda - Kofukuji is a Hosso Buddhist temple in Nara.  One of the great temples of the Nara period (710-794), it features a tall five-story pagoda and many Buddhist art treasures.  Today only a handful of the temple's 175 buildings remain standing, most of which date from the 15th century.  Kofukuji was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998 along with other historic sites in Nara.
    kofukuji-1.jpg
  • Todaiji Temple or Great Eastern Temple is one of Japan's most famous temples and a landmark of Nara. Todaiji was constructed in 752 as the head temple of all provincial Buddhist temples of Japan. Todaiji derives its name from its location east of Nara, which was the capital of Japan when it was built. It is the largest wooden structure in the world, housing the largest bronze Buddha in existance, the Daibutsu or Great Buddha.
    todai-ji-15.jpg
  • Todaiji Temple or Great Eastern Temple is one of Japan's most famous temples and a landmark of Nara. Todaiji was constructed in 752 as the head temple of all provincial Buddhist temples of Japan. Todaiji derives its name from its location east of Nara, which was the capital of Japan when it was built. It is the largest wooden structure in the world, housing the largest bronze Buddha in existance, the Daibutsu or Great Buddha.
    todai-ji-10.jpg
  • Yakushiji was constructed by Emperor Tenmu in the 7th century for the recovery of the emperor's sick wife. Yakushiji  is one of Japan's oldest temples, and laid out in a central axis, flanked by two pagodas. The main hall was rebuilt in the 1970s after being destroyed by fire and houses a Yakushi trinity, considered to be a masterpiece of Japanese Buddhist art. The East Pagoda is the temple's only structure to have survived the many fires that have beset the temple over the years. It appears to have six stories, but there are really only three stories, in symetry with the West Pagoda. Yakushiji is the head temple of the Hosso Sect of Japanese Buddhism.  The Genjo Sanzoin Garan is a central octagonal hall, where Genjo-sanzo's remains are enshrined.
    yakushiji-1.jpg
  • Mt. Kasuga Primeval Forest has been untouched for thousands of years.  The forest stretches out across an area of half a kilometer, behind Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Logging and hunting have been prohibited here since AD 841 which has made it a rare ecosystem with over 175 types of trees, rare birds, insects as well as wild animals including the sacred wild deer that roam around central Nara during the day. At night the deer return to Kasuga Forest where they live.  Kasuga Primeval Forest has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.
    kasuga-primeval-forest-4.jpg
  • Mt. Kasuga Primeval Forest has been untouched for thousands of years.  The forest stretches out across an area of half a kilometer, behind Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Logging and hunting have been prohibited here since AD 841 which has made it a rare ecosystem with over 175 types of trees, rare birds, insects as well as wild animals including the sacred wild deer that roam around central Nara during the day. At night the deer return to Kasuga Forest where they live. <br />
Kasuga Primeval Forest has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.
    kasuga-primeval-forest-3.jpg
  • Yakushiji was constructed by Emperor Tenmu in the 7th century for the recovery of the emperor's sick wife. Yakushiji  is one of Japan's oldest temples, and laid out in a central axis, flanked by two pagodas. The main hall was rebuilt in the 1970s after being destroyed by fire and houses a Yakushi trinity, considered to be a masterpiece of Japanese Buddhist art. The East Pagoda is the temple's only structure to have survived the many fires that have beset the temple over the years. It appears to have six stories, but there are really only three stories, in symetry with the West Pagoda. Yakushiji is the head temple of the Hosso Sect of Japanese Buddhism.  The Genjo Sanzoin Garan is a central octagonal hall, where Genjo-sanzo's remains are enshrined.
    yakushiji-7.jpg
  • Mt. Kasuga Primeval Forest has been untouched for thousands of years.  The forest stretches out across an area of half a kilometer, behind Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Logging and hunting have been prohibited here since AD 841 which has made it a rare ecosystem with over 175 types of trees, rare birds, insects as well as wild animals including the sacred wild deer that roam around central Nara during the day. At night the deer return to Kasuga Forest where they live. <br />
Kasuga Primeval Forest has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.
    kasuga-primeval-forest-01.jpg
  • Mt. Kasuga Primeval Forest has been untouched for thousands of years.  The forest stretches out across an area of half a kilometer, behind Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Logging and hunting have been prohibited here since AD 841 which has made it a rare ecosystem with over 175 types of trees, rare birds, insects as well as wild animals including the sacred wild deer that roam around central Nara during the day. At night the deer return to Kasuga Forest where they live. <br />
Kasuga Primeval Forest has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.
    kasuga-primeval-forest-2.jpg
  • Mt. Kasuga Primeval Forest has been untouched for thousands of years.  The forest stretches out across an area of half a kilometer, behind Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Logging and hunting have been prohibited here since AD 841 which has made it a rare ecosystem with over 175 types of trees, rare birds, insects as well as wild animals including the sacred wild deer that roam around central Nara during the day. At night the deer return to Kasuga Forest where they live. <br />
Kasuga Primeval Forest has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.
    kasuga-primeval-forest-1.jpg
  • Hokki-ji Temple or temple of the Arising Dharma was once  known as Okamoto-dera.  Founded by Prince Shotoku who dedicated his life to spreading Buddhism came to understand the Lotus Sutra here in a palace that was later turned into a temple during the 7th century. The small three storied pagoda  is the oldest in Japan.  Though most of the other buildings at Hokkiji were destroyed by fire, this pagoda indicates what the rest of the temple would have originally looked like. It has been designated a National Treasure and a UNESCO World Hertiage Site. The pagoda is similar to the one at nearby Horyu-ji built by the same prince, and it is thought that it may have been built by the person who designed Horyu-ji.
    hokkiji-2.jpg
  • Hokki-ji Temple or temple of the Arising Dharma was once  known as Okamoto-dera.  Founded by Prince Shotoku who dedicated his life to spreading Buddhism came to understand the Lotus Sutra here in a palace that was later turned into a temple during the 7th century. The small three storied pagoda  is the oldest in Japan.  Though most of the other buildings at Hokkiji were destroyed by fire, this pagoda indicates what the rest of the temple would have originally looked like. It has been designated a National Treasure and a UNESCO World Hertiage Site. The pagoda is similar to the one at nearby Horyu-ji built by the same prince, and it is thought that it may have been built by the person who designed Horyu-ji.
    hokkiji-5.jpg
  • Hokki-ji Temple or temple of the Arising Dharma was once  known as Okamoto-dera.  Founded by Prince Shotoku who dedicated his life to spreading Buddhism came to understand the Lotus Sutra here in a palace that was later turned into a temple during the 7th century. The small three storied pagoda  is the oldest in Japan.  Though most of the other buildings at Hokkiji were destroyed by fire, this pagoda indicates what the rest of the temple would have originally looked like. It has been designated a National Treasure and a UNESCO World Hertiage Site. The pagoda is similar to the one at nearby Horyu-ji built by the same prince, and it is thought that it may have been built by the person who designed Horyu-ji.
    hokkiji-3.jpg
  • Hokki-ji Temple or temple of the Arising Dharma was once  known as Okamoto-dera.  Founded by Prince Shotoku who dedicated his life to spreading Buddhism came to understand the Lotus Sutra here in a palace that was later turned into a temple during the 7th century. The small three storied pagoda  is the oldest in Japan.  Though most of the other buildings at Hokkiji were destroyed by fire, this pagoda indicates what the rest of the temple would have originally looked like. It has been designated a National Treasure and a UNESCO World Hertiage Site. The pagoda is similar to the one at nearby Horyu-ji built by the same prince, and it is thought that it may have been built by the person who designed Horyu-ji.
    hokkiji-1.jpg
  • Toshodaiji Pond Garden - Toshodaiji was founded by Ganjin - a Chinese priest invited to Japan by the emperor to train priests and teach Buddhism. Ganjin's influence propagating Buddhism in Japan was monumental, and his arrival and teaching at Toshodaiji was important in this process.  Ganjin finally arrived in Japan after 7 attempts to cross the South China Sea and eventually went blind. Toshodaiji's main hall kondo was reopened in 2009 after being renovated during which the building was dismantled and reconstructed. The temple's lecture hall was originally at the Nara Imperial Palace and was moved to Toshodaiji. Today, it is the only surviving building of the former palace. The Buddha statues inside these buildings are national treasures of Japan.  North of the temple, the tomb of Ganjin is located surrounded by a moss garden.
    toshodaiji-8.jpg
  • Hokki-ji Temple or temple of the Arising Dharma was once  known as Okamoto-dera.  Founded by Prince Shotoku who dedicated his life to spreading Buddhism came to understand the Lotus Sutra here in a palace that was later turned into a temple during the 7th century. The small three storied pagoda  is the oldest in Japan.  Though most of the other buildings at Hokkiji were destroyed by fire, this pagoda indicates what the rest of the temple would have originally looked like. It has been designated a National Treasure and a UNESCO World Hertiage Site. The pagoda is similar to the one at nearby Horyu-ji built by the same prince, and it is thought that it may have been built by the person who designed Horyu-ji.
    hokkiji-4.jpg
  • Toshodaiji Pond Garden - Toshodaiji was founded by Ganjin - a Chinese priest invited to Japan by the emperor to train priests and teach Buddhism. Ganjin's influence propagating Buddhism in Japan was monumental, and his arrival and teaching at Toshodaiji was important in this process.  Ganjin finally arrived in Japan after 7 attempts to cross the South China Sea and eventually went blind. Toshodaiji's main hall kondo was reopened in 2009 after being renovated during which the building was dismantled and reconstructed. The temple's lecture hall was originally at the Nara Imperial Palace and was moved to Toshodaiji. Today, it is the only surviving building of the former palace. The Buddha statues inside these buildings are national treasures of Japan.  North of the temple, the tomb of Ganjin is located surrounded by a moss garden.
    toshodaiji-7.jpg
  • Toshodaiji Pond Garden - Toshodaiji was founded by Ganjin - a Chinese priest invited to Japan by the emperor to train priests and teach Buddhism. Ganjin's influence propagating Buddhism in Japan was monumental, and his arrival and teaching at Toshodaiji was important in this process.  Ganjin finally arrived in Japan after 7 attempts to cross the South China Sea and eventually went blind. Toshodaiji's main hall kondo was reopened in 2009 after being renovated during which the building was dismantled and reconstructed. The temple's lecture hall was originally at the Nara Imperial Palace and was moved to Toshodaiji. Today, it is the only surviving building of the former palace. The Buddha statues inside these buildings are national treasures of Japan.  North of the temple, the tomb of Ganjin is located surrounded by a moss garden.
    toshodaiji-11.jpg
  • Toshodaiji Pond Garden - Toshodaiji was founded by Ganjin - a Chinese priest invited to Japan by the emperor to train priests and teach Buddhism. Ganjin's influence propagating Buddhism in Japan was monumental, and his arrival and teaching at Toshodaiji was important in this process.  Ganjin finally arrived in Japan after 7 attempts to cross the South China Sea and eventually went blind. Toshodaiji's main hall kondo was reopened in 2009 after being renovated during which the building was dismantled and reconstructed. The temple's lecture hall was originally at the Nara Imperial Palace and was moved to Toshodaiji. Today, it is the only surviving building of the former palace. The Buddha statues inside these buildings are national treasures of Japan.  North of the temple, the tomb of Ganjin is located surrounded by a moss garden.
    toshodaiji-10.jpg
  • Toshodaiji Pond Garden - Toshodaiji was founded by Ganjin - a Chinese priest invited to Japan by the emperor to train priests and teach Buddhism. Ganjin's influence propagating Buddhism in Japan was monumental, and his arrival and teaching at Toshodaiji was important in this process.  Ganjin finally arrived in Japan after 7 attempts to cross the South China Sea and eventually went blind. Toshodaiji's main hall kondo was reopened in 2009 after being renovated during which the building was dismantled and reconstructed. The temple's lecture hall was originally at the Nara Imperial Palace and was moved to Toshodaiji. Today, it is the only surviving building of the former palace. The Buddha statues inside these buildings are national treasures of Japan.  North of the temple, the tomb of Ganjin is located surrounded by a moss garden.
    toshodaiji-9.jpg
  • Toshodai-ji Temple - Toshodaiji was founded by Ganjin - a Chinese priest invited to Japan by the emperor to train priests and teach Buddhism. Ganjin's influence propagating Buddhism in Japan was monumental, and his arrival and teaching at Toshodaiji was important in this process.  Ganjin finally arrived in Japan after 7 attempts to cross the South China Sea and eventually went blind. Toshodaiji's main hall kondo was reopened in 2009 after being renovated during which the building was dismantled and reconstructed. The temple's lecture hall was originally at the Nara Imperial Palace and was moved to Toshodaiji. Today, it is the only surviving building of the former palace. The Buddha statues inside these buildings are national treasures of Japan.  North of the temple, the tomb of Ganjin is located surrounded by a moss garden.
    toshodaiji-3.jpg
  • Toshodai-ji Temple - Toshodaiji was founded by Ganjin - a Chinese priest invited to Japan by the emperor to train priests and teach Buddhism. Ganjin's influence propagating Buddhism in Japan was monumental, and his arrival and teaching at Toshodaiji was important in this process.  Ganjin finally arrived in Japan after 7 attempts to cross the South China Sea and eventually went blind. Toshodaiji's main hall kondo was reopened in 2009 after being renovated during which the building was dismantled and reconstructed. The temple's lecture hall was originally at the Nara Imperial Palace and was moved to Toshodaiji. Today, it is the only surviving building of the former palace. The Buddha statues inside these buildings are national treasures of Japan.  North of the temple, the tomb of Ganjin is located surrounded by a moss garden.
    toshodaiji-2.jpg
  • Toshodaiji Moss Garden - Toshodaiji was founded by Ganjin - a Chinese priest invited to Japan by the emperor to train priests and teach Buddhism. Ganjin's influence propagating Buddhism in Japan was monumental, and his arrival and teaching at Toshodaiji was important in this process.  Ganjin finally arrived in Japan after 7 attempts to cross the South China Sea and eventually went blind. Toshodaiji's main hall kondo was reopened in 2009 after being renovated during which the building was dismantled and reconstructed. The temple's lecture hall was originally at the Nara Imperial Palace and was moved to Toshodaiji. Today, it is the only surviving building of the former palace. The Buddha statues inside these buildings are national treasures of Japan.  North of the temple, the tomb of Ganjin is located surrounded by a moss garden.
    toshodaiji-4.jpg
  • Toshodaiji Moss Garden - Toshodaiji was founded by Ganjin - a Chinese priest invited to Japan by the emperor to train priests and teach Buddhism. Ganjin's influence propagating Buddhism in Japan was monumental, and his arrival and teaching at Toshodaiji was important in this process.  Ganjin finally arrived in Japan after 7 attempts to cross the South China Sea and eventually went blind. Toshodaiji's main hall kondo was reopened in 2009 after being renovated during which the building was dismantled and reconstructed. The temple's lecture hall was originally at the Nara Imperial Palace and was moved to Toshodaiji. Today, it is the only surviving building of the former palace. The Buddha statues inside these buildings are national treasures of Japan.  North of the temple, the tomb of Ganjin is located surrounded by a moss garden.
    toshodaiji-1.jpg
  • Kofukuji is a Hosso Buddhist temple in Nara.  One of the great temples of the Nara period (710-794), it features a tall five-story pagoda and many Buddhist art treasures.  Today only a handful of the temple's 175 buildings remain standing, most of which date from the 15th century.  Kofukuji was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998 along with other historic sites in Nara.
    kofukuji-nara-3.jpg
  • Kofukuji is a Hosso Buddhist temple in Nara.  One of the great temples of the Nara period (710-794), it features a tall five-story pagoda and many Buddhist art treasures.  Today only a handful of the temple's 175 buildings remain standing, most of which date from the 15th century.  Kofukuji was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998 along with other historic sites in Nara.
    kofukuji-nara-1.jpg
  • Kofukuji is one of the great temples of the Nara period featuring a five storey pagoda.  Today only a handful of the temple's original buildings remain.  Kofukuji was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    kofukuji-nara-2.jpg
  • The Great Buddha of Nara belongs to Todaiji Temple, located in the ancient capital of Nara.  The construction of Todaiji, was completed in 752 with the aim, not only to house the Great Buddha image, but also to consolidate the position of the city as Japan's capital and powerful center of Buddhism. The Great Buddha Hall, called "Daibutsu-Den", the main hall of Todaiji, was rebuilt several times. The current structure, completed in 1709, is only two-thirds of the original size, but is still the largest wooden building in the world. The seated figure inside is the world's largest bronze image of Buddha. The Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara were registered as UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.
    nara-daibutsu-1.jpg
  • Heijo Palace Nara, was the imperial palace of Japan from 710 until 784. The remains of the palace was established as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998 . The palace grounds were based on Xi'an the Tang Dynasty capital of China, which was concurrently, the time when Nara was capital of Japan.  When Kyoto became capital, Nara's Imperial Palace was abandoned.  The ravages of time and elements destroyed the buildings though much of it was rebuilt for Nara’s 1300 Year Anniversary festivities held in 2010.
    Heijo-Palace-3.jpg
  • Heijo Palace Nara, was the imperial palace of Japan from 710 until 784. The remains of the palace was established as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998 . The palace grounds were based on Xi'an the Tang Dynasty capital of China, which was concurrently, the time when Nara was capital of Japan.  When Kyoto became capital, Nara's Imperial Palace was abandoned.  The ravages of time and elements destroyed the buildings though much of it was rebuilt for Nara’s 1300 Year Anniversary festivities held in 2010.
    Heijo-Palace-5.jpg
  • Heijo Palace Nara, was the imperial palace of Japan from 710 until 784. The remains of the palace was established as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998 . The palace grounds were based on Xi'an the Tang Dynasty capital of China, which was concurrently, the time when Nara was capital of Japan.  When Kyoto became capital, Nara's Imperial Palace was abandoned.  The ravages of time and elements destroyed the buildings though much of it was rebuilt for Nara’s 1300 Year Anniversary festivities held in 2010.
    Heijo-Palace-7.jpg
  • Heijo Palace Nara, was the imperial palace of Japan from 710 until 784. The remains of the palace was established as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998 . The palace grounds were based on Xi'an the Tang Dynasty capital of China, which was concurrently, the time when Nara was capital of Japan.  When Kyoto became capital, Nara's Imperial Palace was abandoned.  The ravages of time and elements destroyed the buildings though much of it was rebuilt for Nara’s 1300 Year Anniversary festivities held in 2010.
    Heijo-Palace-6.jpg
  • Heijo Palace Nara, was the imperial palace of Japan from 710 until 784. The remains of the palace was established as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998 . The palace grounds were based on Xi'an the Tang Dynasty capital of China, which was concurrently, the time when Nara was capital of Japan.  When Kyoto became capital, Nara's Imperial Palace was abandoned.  The ravages of time and elements destroyed the buildings though much of it was rebuilt for Nara’s 1300 Year Anniversary festivities held in 2010.
    Heijo-Palace-1.jpg
  • Heijo Palace Nara, was the imperial palace of Japan from 710 until 784. The remains of the palace was established as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998 . The palace grounds were based on Xi'an the Tang Dynasty capital of China, which was concurrently, the time when Nara was capital of Japan.  When Kyoto became capital, Nara's Imperial Palace was abandoned.  The ravages of time and elements destroyed the buildings though much of it was rebuilt for Nara’s 1300 Year Anniversary festivities held in 2010.
    Heijo-Palace-4.jpg
  • Todaiji Temple or Great Eastern Temple is one of Japan's most famous temples and a landmark of Nara. Todaiji was constructed in 752 as the head temple of all provincial Buddhist temples of Japan.<br />
Todaiji derives its name from its location east of Nara, which was the capital of Japan when it was built. It is the largest wooden structure in the world, housing the largest bronze Buddha in existance, the Daibutsu or Great Buddha.
    todaiji-4.jpg
  • Todaiji Temple or Great Eastern Temple is one of Japan's most famous temples and a landmark of Nara. Todaiji was constructed in 752 as the head temple of all provincial Buddhist temples of Japan. Todaiji derives its name from its location east of Nara, which was the capital of Japan when it was built. It is the largest wooden structure in the world, housing the largest bronze Buddha in existance, the Daibutsu or Great Buddha.
    todaiji-5.jpg
  • 6. Horyuji Temple 法隆寺 was founded by Prince Shotoku in 607. The entire complex has been preserved making Horyuji a sort of museum of the building styles from the 7th century onwards.  Enclosed by roofed corridors, the Western Precinct is home to the world's oldest surviving wooden structures built during the Asuka Period and have never suffered damage or destruction. The Eastern Precinct showcases the octagonal Yumedono Hall of Dream Visions with its statue of Guze Kannon which had been kept under wraps for centuries until 1884.
    6.NARA-HORYUJI-01.jpg
  • 6. Horyuji Temple 法隆寺 was founded by Prince Shotoku in 607. The entire complex has been preserved making Horyuji a sort of museum of the building styles from the 7th century onwards.  Enclosed by roofed corridors, the Western Precinct is home to the world's oldest surviving wooden structures built during the Asuka Period and have never suffered damage or destruction. The Eastern Precinct showcases the octagonal Yumedono Hall of Dream Visions with its statue of Guze Kannon which had been kept under wraps for centuries until 1884.
    6.NARA-HORYUJI-02.jpg
  • 8. Yakushiji Temple 薬師寺 was constructed by Emperor Tenmu in the 7th century for the recovery of the emperor's sick wife. Yakushiji is one of Japan's oldest temples and is laid out on a central axis flanked by two pagodas. The main hall was rebuilt in the 1970s after being destroyed by fire and houses a Yakushi trinity - considered to be a masterpiece of Japanese Buddhist art. The East Pagoda is the temple's only structure to have survived the many fires that have destroyed the temple repeatedly over the years.  It appears to have six stories, but there are really only three stories, in symmetry with the West Pagoda. The East Pagoda, the only building to have survived since the 8th century, is considered to be a masterpiece of Japanese architecture.
    8.NARA.YAKUSHIJI-02.jpg
  • 8. Yakushiji Temple 薬師寺 was constructed by Emperor Tenmu in the 7th century for the recovery of the emperor's sick wife. Yakushiji is one of Japan's oldest temples and is laid out on a central axis flanked by two pagodas. The main hall was rebuilt in the 1970s after being destroyed by fire and houses a Yakushi trinity - considered to be a masterpiece of Japanese Buddhist art. The East Pagoda is the temple's only structure to have survived the many fires that have destroyed the temple repeatedly over the years.  It appears to have six stories, but there are really only three stories, in symmetry with the West Pagoda. The East Pagoda, the only building to have survived since the 8th century, is considered to be a masterpiece of Japanese architecture.
    8.NARA.YAKUSHIJI-03.jpg
  • 8. Yakushiji Temple 薬師寺 was constructed by Emperor Tenmu in the 7th century for the recovery of the emperor's sick wife. Yakushiji is one of Japan's oldest temples and is laid out on a central axis flanked by two pagodas. The main hall was rebuilt in the 1970s after being destroyed by fire and houses a Yakushi trinity - considered to be a masterpiece of Japanese Buddhist art. The East Pagoda is the temple's only structure to have survived the many fires that have destroyed the temple repeatedly over the years.  It appears to have six stories, but there are really only three stories, in symmetry with the West Pagoda. The East Pagoda, the only building to have survived since the 8th century, is considered to be a masterpiece of Japanese architecture.
    8.NARA.YAKUSHIJI-01.jpg
  • 5. Hokki-ji Temple 法起寺 or Temple of the Arising Dharma was once known as Okamoto-dera.  Founded by Prince Shotoku came to understand the Lotus Sutra here in a palace that was later turned into a temple. The small three-storied pagoda is the oldest in Japan.  Though most of the other buildings at Hokkiji were destroyed by fire, this pagoda indicates what the rest of the temple would have originally looked like.  The pagoda is similar to the one at nearby Horyu-ji built by the same prince.
    5.NARA-HOKKI-JI-02.jpg
  • 5. Hokki-ji Temple 法起寺 or Temple of the Arising Dharma was once known as Okamoto-dera.  Founded by Prince Shotoku came to understand the Lotus Sutra here in a palace that was later turned into a temple. The small three-storied pagoda is the oldest in Japan.  Though most of the other buildings at Hokkiji were destroyed by fire, this pagoda indicates what the rest of the temple would have originally looked like.  The pagoda is similar to the one at nearby Horyu-ji built by the same prince.
    5.NARA-HOKKI-JI-01.jpg
  • 4. Kofukuji 興福寺 was once an important center for Buddhism in Japan.  Since it was established by the Fujiwara clan who ruled Japan at the time, it also retained influence over the imperial government.  One of the great temples of the Nara Period it features a five storey pagoda and many Buddhist art treasures. Today only a handful of the temple's 175 buildings remain standing, most of which date from the 15th century.  Although its pagoda dominates the scene, octagonal halls contain most of Kofukuji’s treasures, rarely open for viewing.  The Octagonal Halls are noteworthy because of their unique architectural design and part of the Western Japan Pilgrimage of 33 Temples.
    4.NARA-KOFUKUJI-02.jpg
  • 4. Kofukuji 興福寺 was once an important center for Buddhism in Japan.  Since it was established by the Fujiwara clan who ruled Japan at the time, it also retained influence over the imperial government.  One of the great temples of the Nara Period it features a five storey pagoda and many Buddhist art treasures. Today only a handful of the temple's 175 buildings remain standing, most of which date from the 15th century.  Although its pagoda dominates the scene, octagonal halls contain most of Kofukuji’s treasures, rarely open for viewing.  The Octagonal Halls are noteworthy because of their unique architectural design and part of the Western Japan Pilgrimage of 33 Temples.
    4.NARA-KOFUKUJI-03.jpg
  • Yakushiji Tenple Pagoda - Yakushiji was constructed by Emperor Tenmu in the 7th century for the recovery of the emperor's sick wife. Yakushiji  is one of Japan's oldest temples, and laid out in a central axis, flanked by two pagodas. The main hall was rebuilt in the 1970s after being destroyed by fire and houses a Yakushi trinity, considered to be a masterpiece of Japanese Buddhist art. The East Pagoda is the temple's only structure to have survived the many fires that have beset the temple over the years. It appears to have six stories, but there are really only three stories, in symetry with the West Pagoda. Yakushiji is the head temple of the Hosso Sect of Japanese Buddhism.  The Genjo Sanzoin Garan is a central octagonal hall, where Genjo-sanzo's remains are enshrined.
    yakushiji-3.jpg
  • Yakushiji Tenple Pagoda - Yakushiji was constructed by Emperor Tenmu in the 7th century for the recovery of the emperor's sick wife. Yakushiji  is one of Japan's oldest temples, and laid out in a central axis, flanked by two pagodas. The main hall was rebuilt in the 1970s after being destroyed by fire and houses a Yakushi trinity, considered to be a masterpiece of Japanese Buddhist art. The East Pagoda is the temple's only structure to have survived the many fires that have beset the temple over the years. It appears to have six stories, but there are really only three stories, in symetry with the West Pagoda. Yakushiji is the head temple of the Hosso Sect of Japanese Buddhism.  The Genjo Sanzoin Garan is a central octagonal hall, where Genjo-sanzo's remains are enshrined.
    yakushiji-5.jpg
  • Yakushiji Tenple Pagoda - Yakushiji was constructed by Emperor Tenmu in the 7th century for the recovery of the emperor's sick wife. Yakushiji  is one of Japan's oldest temples, and laid out in a central axis, flanked by two pagodas. The main hall was rebuilt in the 1970s after being destroyed by fire and houses a Yakushi trinity, considered to be a masterpiece of Japanese Buddhist art. The East Pagoda is the temple's only structure to have survived the many fires that have beset the temple over the years. It appears to have six stories, but there are really only three stories, in symetry with the West Pagoda. Yakushiji is the head temple of the Hosso Sect of Japanese Buddhism.  The Genjo Sanzoin Garan is a central octagonal hall, where Genjo-sanzo's remains are enshrined.
    yakushiji-6.jpg
  • Yakushiji Tenple Pagoda - Yakushiji was constructed by Emperor Tenmu in the 7th century for the recovery of the emperor's sick wife. Yakushiji  is one of Japan's oldest temples, and laid out in a central axis, flanked by two pagodas. The main hall was rebuilt in the 1970s after being destroyed by fire and houses a Yakushi trinity, considered to be a masterpiece of Japanese Buddhist art. The East Pagoda is the temple's only structure to have survived the many fires that have beset the temple over the years. It appears to have six stories, but there are really only three stories, in symetry with the West Pagoda. Yakushiji is the head temple of the Hosso Sect of Japanese Buddhism.  The Genjo Sanzoin Garan is a central octagonal hall, where Genjo-sanzo's remains are enshrined.
    yakushiji-4.jpg
  • Yakushiji Tenple Pagoda - Yakushiji was constructed by Emperor Tenmu in the 7th century for the recovery of the emperor's sick wife. Yakushiji  is one of Japan's oldest temples, and laid out in a central axis, flanked by two pagodas. The main hall was rebuilt in the 1970s after being destroyed by fire and houses a Yakushi trinity, considered to be a masterpiece of Japanese Buddhist art. The East Pagoda is the temple's only structure to have survived the many fires that have beset the temple over the years. It appears to have six stories, but there are really only three stories, in symetry with the West Pagoda. Yakushiji is the head temple of the Hosso Sect of Japanese Buddhism.  The Genjo Sanzoin Garan is a central octagonal hall, where Genjo-sanzo's remains are enshrined.
    yakushiji-2.jpg
  • Yakushiji was constructed by Emperor Tenmu in the 7th century for the recovery of the emperor's sick wife. Yakushiji  is one of Japan's oldest temples, and laid out in a central axis, flanked by two pagodas. The main hall was rebuilt in the 1970s after being destroyed by fire and houses a Yakushi trinity, considered to be a masterpiece of Japanese Buddhist art. The East Pagoda is the temple's only structure to have survived the many fires that have beset the temple over the years. It appears to have six stories, but there are really only three stories, in symetry with the West Pagoda. Yakushiji is the head temple of the Hosso Sect of Japanese Buddhism.  The Genjo Sanzoin Garan is a central octagonal hall, where Genjo-sanzo's remains are enshrined.
    yakushiji-8.jpg
  • Great Buddha at Daibutsuden,Todaiji - Todai-ji or the Eastern Great Temple in Nara - the Great Buddha Hall Daibutsuden shelters the world's largest bronze statue of the Buddha known in Japanese as Daibutsu.  The temple also serves as the Japanese headquarters of the Kegon sect of Buddhism. The temple is a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site as "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara”.  Wild deer, regarded as messengers of the gods in the Shinto religion, roam the area regularly.
    nara-daibutsu-6.jpg
  • Great Buddha at Daibutsuden,Todaiji - Todai-ji or the Eastern Great Temple in Nara - the Great Buddha Hall Daibutsuden shelters the world's largest bronze statue of the Buddha known in Japanese as Daibutsu.  The temple also serves as the Japanese headquarters of the Kegon sect of Buddhism. The temple is a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site as "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara”.  Wild deer, regarded as messengers of the gods in the Shinto religion, roam the area regularly.
    nara-daibutsu-3.jpg
  • Great Buddha at Daibutsuden,Todaiji - Todai-ji or the Eastern Great Temple in Nara - the Great Buddha Hall Daibutsuden shelters the world's largest bronze statue of the Buddha known in Japanese as Daibutsu.  The temple also serves as the Japanese headquarters of the Kegon sect of Buddhism. The temple is a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site as "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara”.  Wild deer, regarded as messengers of the gods in the Shinto religion, roam the area regularly.
    nara-daibutsu-8.jpg
  • Great Buddha at Daibutsuden,Todaiji - Todai-ji or the Eastern Great Temple in Nara - the Great Buddha Hall Daibutsuden shelters the world's largest bronze statue of the Buddha known in Japanese as Daibutsu.  The temple also serves as the Japanese headquarters of the Kegon sect of Buddhism. The temple is a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site as "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara”.  Wild deer, regarded as messengers of the gods in the Shinto religion, roam the area regularly.
    nara-daibutsu-5.jpg
  • Great Buddha at Daibutsuden,Todaiji - Todai-ji or the Eastern Great Temple in Nara - the Great Buddha Hall Daibutsuden shelters the world's largest bronze statue of the Buddha known in Japanese as Daibutsu.  The temple also serves as the Japanese headquarters of the Kegon sect of Buddhism. The temple is a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site as "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara”.  Wild deer, regarded as messengers of the gods in the Shinto religion, roam the area regularly.
    nara-daibutsu-2.jpg
  • Great Buddha at Daibutsuden,Todaiji - Todai-ji or the Eastern Great Temple in Nara - the Great Buddha Hall Daibutsuden shelters the world's largest bronze statue of the Buddha known in Japanese as Daibutsu.  The temple also serves as the Japanese headquarters of the Kegon sect of Buddhism. The temple is a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site as "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara”.  Wild deer, regarded as messengers of the gods in the Shinto religion, roam the area regularly.
    nara-daibutsu-4.jpg
  • 9. Toshodai-ji Temple 唐招提寺 was founded by Ganjin - a Chinese priest invited to Japan by the emperor to train priests and teach Buddhism. Consequently, its influence propagating Buddhism in Japan was monumental.  Ganjin finally arrived in Japan after sseven attempts to cross the South China Sea and eventually went blind. Toshodaiji's main hall was reopened in 2009 after being restoration during which the building was dismantled and reconstructed. The temple's lecture hall was originally at the Nara Imperial Palace and was moved to Toshodaiji. Today, it is the only surviving building of the former palace. North of the temple, the tomb of Ganjin is surrounded by a moss garden.
    9.NARA-TOSHODAIJI-01.jpg
  • 1. Kasuga-taisha Shrine 春日大社 was established by the powerful Fujiwara clan and rebuilt several times over the centuries.  The legend is that the Fujiwaras invited a powerful deity or god to Nara, who arrived in town riding on the back of a deer.  Consequently, wild deer from the forest above the city roam freely in its grounds.  Kasuga is famous for its lanterns that have been donated by worshipers:. Hundreds of bronze lanterns hang from the buildings and hundreds more moss-covered stone lanterns line the approach to the shrine grounds.  The Kasuga style of lantern is ornate and bears the images of the sacred deer.  The lanterns are lit twice a year at the Lantern Festivals - Setsubon held in February and Obon held in August. The lanterns light the way for ancestral spirits.
    1.NARA-KASUGA.jpg
  • 1. Kasuga-taisha Shrine 春日大社 was established by the powerful Fujiwara clan and rebuilt several times over the centuries.  The legend is that the Fujiwaras invited a powerful deity or god to Nara, who arrived in town riding on the back of a deer.  Consequently, wild deer from the forest above the city roam freely in its grounds.  Kasuga is famous for its lanterns that have been donated by worshipers:. Hundreds of bronze lanterns hang from the buildings and hundreds more moss-covered stone lanterns line the approach to the shrine grounds.  The Kasuga style of lantern is ornate and bears the images of the sacred deer.  The lanterns are lit twice a year at the Lantern Festivals - Setsubon held in February and Obon held in August. The lanterns light the way for ancestral spirits.
    1.NARA-KASUGA-03.jpg
  • 1. Kasuga-taisha Shrine 春日大社 was established by the powerful Fujiwara clan and rebuilt several times over the centuries.  The legend is that the Fujiwaras invited a powerful deity or god to Nara, who arrived in town riding on the back of a deer.  Consequently, wild deer from the forest above the city roam freely in its grounds.  Kasuga is famous for its lanterns that have been donated by worshipers:. Hundreds of bronze lanterns hang from the buildings and hundreds more moss-covered stone lanterns line the approach to the shrine grounds.  The Kasuga style of lantern is ornate and bears the images of the sacred deer.  The lanterns are lit twice a year at the Lantern Festivals - Setsubon held in February and Obon held in August. The lanterns light the way for ancestral spirits.
    1.NARA-KASUGA-04.jpg
  • 1. Kasuga-taisha Shrine 春日大社 was established by the powerful Fujiwara clan and rebuilt several times over the centuries.  The legend is that the Fujiwaras invited a powerful deity or god to Nara, who arrived in town riding on the back of a deer.  Consequently, wild deer from the forest above the city roam freely in its grounds.  Kasuga is famous for its lanterns that have been donated by worshipers:. Hundreds of bronze lanterns hang from the buildings and hundreds more moss-covered stone lanterns line the approach to the shrine grounds.  The Kasuga style of lantern is ornate and bears the images of the sacred deer.  The lanterns are lit twice a year at the Lantern Festivals - Setsubon held in February and Obon held in August. The lanterns light the way for ancestral spirits.
    1.NARA-KASUGA-01.jpg
  • 9. Toshodai-ji Temple 唐招提寺 was founded by Ganjin - a Chinese priest invited to Japan by the emperor to train priests and teach Buddhism. Consequently, its influence propagating Buddhism in Japan was monumental.  Ganjin finally arrived in Japan after sseven attempts to cross the South China Sea and eventually went blind. Toshodaiji's main hall was reopened in 2009 after being restoration during which the building was dismantled and reconstructed. The temple's lecture hall was originally at the Nara Imperial Palace and was moved to Toshodaiji. Today, it is the only surviving building of the former palace. North of the temple, the tomb of Ganjin is surrounded by a moss garden.
    9.NARA-TOSHODAIJI-02.jpg
  • 1. Kasuga-taisha Shrine 春日大社 was established by the powerful Fujiwara clan and rebuilt several times over the centuries.  The legend is that the Fujiwaras invited a powerful deity or god to Nara, who arrived in town riding on the back of a deer.  Consequently, wild deer from the forest above the city roam freely in its grounds.  Kasuga is famous for its lanterns that have been donated by worshipers:. Hundreds of bronze lanterns hang from the buildings and hundreds more moss-covered stone lanterns line the approach to the shrine grounds.  The Kasuga style of lantern is ornate and bears the images of the sacred deer.  The lanterns are lit twice a year at the Lantern Festivals - Setsubon held in February and Obon held in August. The lanterns light the way for ancestral spirits.
    1.NARA-KASUGA-02.jpg
  • Kasuga-taisha is a Shinto shrine in Nara often called Kasuga Grand Shrine. Established in 768 AD and rebuilt several times over the centuries. Kasuga Taisha is famous for its lanterns that have been donated by worshipers: hundreds of bronze lanterns are hanging from the buildings, and many stone lanterns line the approach to the shrine grounds. The lanterns are lit twice a year at the Lantern Festivals in February and August. Kasuga Shrine, and the Kasugayama Primeval Forest behind it are registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites which is part of the "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara”.
    kasuga-2.jpg
  • Kasuga-taisha is a Shinto shrine in Nara often called Kasuga Grand Shrine. Established in 768 AD and rebuilt several times over the centuries. Kasuga Taisha is famous for its lanterns that have been donated by worshipers: hundreds of bronze lanterns are hanging from the buildings, and many stone lanterns line the approach to the shrine grounds. The lanterns are lit twice a year at the Lantern Festivals in February and August. Kasuga Shrine, and the Kasugayama Primeval Forest behind it are registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites which is part of the "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara”.
    kasuga-1.jpg
  • Kasuga-taisha is a Shinto shrine in Nara often called Kasuga Grand Shrine. Established in 768 AD and rebuilt several times over the centuries. Kasuga Taisha is famous for its lanterns that have been donated by worshipers: hundreds of bronze lanterns are hanging from the buildings, and many stone lanterns line the approach to the shrine grounds. The lanterns are lit twice a year at the Lantern Festivals in February and August. Kasuga Shrine, and the Kasugayama Primeval Forest behind it are registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites which is part of the "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara”.
    tsukubai-31.jpg
  • Kasuga-taisha is a Shinto shrine in Nara often called Kasuga Grand Shrine. Established in 768 AD and rebuilt several times over the centuries. Kasuga Taisha is famous for its lanterns that have been donated by worshipers: hundreds of bronze lanterns are hanging from the buildings, and many stone lanterns line the approach to the shrine grounds. The lanterns are lit twice a year at the Lantern Festivals in February and August. Kasuga Shrine, and the Kasugayama Primeval Forest behind it are registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites which is part of the "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara”.
    kasuga-lanterns-5.jpg
  • Kasuga-taisha is a Shinto shrine in Nara often called Kasuga Grand Shrine. Established in 768 AD and rebuilt several times over the centuries. Kasuga Taisha is famous for its lanterns that have been donated by worshipers: hundreds of bronze lanterns are hanging from the buildings, and many stone lanterns line the approach to the shrine grounds. The lanterns are lit twice a year at the Lantern Festivals in February and August. Kasuga Shrine, and the Kasugayama Primeval Forest behind it are registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites which is part of the "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara”.
    kasuga-lanterns-4.jpg
  • Kasuga-taisha is a Shinto shrine in Nara often called Kasuga Grand Shrine. Established in 768 AD and rebuilt several times over the centuries. Kasuga Taisha is famous for its lanterns that have been donated by worshipers: hundreds of bronze lanterns are hanging from the buildings, and many stone lanterns line the approach to the shrine grounds. The lanterns are lit twice a year at the Lantern Festivals in February and August. Kasuga Shrine, and the Kasugayama Primeval Forest behind it are registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites which is part of the "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara”.
    kasuga-lanterns-2.jpg
  • Kasuga-taisha is a Shinto shrine in Nara often called Kasuga Grand Shrine. Established in 768 AD and rebuilt several times over the centuries. Kasuga Taisha is famous for its lanterns that have been donated by worshipers: hundreds of bronze lanterns are hanging from the buildings, and many stone lanterns line the approach to the shrine grounds. The lanterns are lit twice a year at the Lantern Festivals in February and August. Kasuga Shrine, and the Kasugayama Primeval Forest behind it are registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites which is part of the "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara”.
    kasuga-lanterns-13.jpg
  • Kasuga-taisha is a Shinto shrine in Nara often called Kasuga Grand Shrine. Established in 768 AD and rebuilt several times over the centuries. Kasuga Taisha is famous for its lanterns that have been donated by worshipers: hundreds of bronze lanterns are hanging from the buildings, and many stone lanterns line the approach to the shrine grounds. The lanterns are lit twice a year at the Lantern Festivals in February and August. Kasuga Shrine, and the Kasugayama Primeval Forest behind it are registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites which is part of the "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara”.
    kasuga-lanterns-14.jpg
  • Kasuga Shrine Shinto Priests -Kasuga-taisha is a Shinto shrine in Nara often called Kasuga Grand Shrine. Established in 768 AD and rebuilt several times over the centuries. Kasuga Taisha is famous for its lanterns that have been donated by worshipers: hundreds of bronze lanterns are hanging from the buildings, and many stone lanterns line the approach to the shrine grounds. The lanterns are lit twice a year at the Lantern Festivals in February and August. Kasuga Shrine, and the Kasugayama Primeval Forest behind it are registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites which is part of the "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara”.
    kasuga-shinto-priests-2.jpg
  • Kasuga Shrine Shinto Priests -Kasuga-taisha is a Shinto shrine in Nara often called Kasuga Grand Shrine. Established in 768 AD and rebuilt several times over the centuries. Kasuga Taisha is famous for its lanterns that have been donated by worshipers: hundreds of bronze lanterns are hanging from the buildings, and many stone lanterns line the approach to the shrine grounds. The lanterns are lit twice a year at the Lantern Festivals in February and August. Kasuga Shrine, and the Kasugayama Primeval Forest behind it are registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites which is part of the "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara”.
    kasuga-shinto-priests-1.jpg
  • Kasuga Shrine Love Wishes - Kasuga-taisha is a Shinto shrine in Nara often called Kasuga Grand Shrine. Established in 768 AD and rebuilt several times over the centuries. Kasuga Taisha is famous for its lanterns that have been donated by worshipers: hundreds of bronze lanterns are hanging from the buildings, and many stone lanterns line the approach to the shrine grounds. The lanterns are lit twice a year at the Lantern Festivals in February and August. Kasuga Shrine, and the Kasugayama Primeval Forest behind it are registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites which is part of the "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara”.
    ema-7.jpg
  • Kasuga-taisha is a Shinto shrine in Nara often called Kasuga Grand Shrine. Established in 768 AD and rebuilt several times over the centuries. Kasuga Taisha is famous for its lanterns that have been donated by worshipers: hundreds of bronze lanterns are hanging from the buildings, and many stone lanterns line the approach to the shrine grounds. The lanterns are lit twice a year at the Lantern Festivals in February and August. Kasuga Shrine, and the Kasugayama Primeval Forest behind it are registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites which is part of the "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara”.
    kasuga-lanterns-10.jpg
  • Kasuga-taisha is a Shinto shrine in Nara often called Kasuga Grand Shrine. Established in 768 AD and rebuilt several times over the centuries. Kasuga Taisha is famous for its lanterns that have been donated by worshipers: hundreds of bronze lanterns are hanging from the buildings, and many stone lanterns line the approach to the shrine grounds. The lanterns are lit twice a year at the Lantern Festivals in February and August. Kasuga Shrine, and the Kasugayama Primeval Forest behind it are registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites which is part of the "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara”.
    kasuga-lanterns-7.jpg
  • Kasuga-taisha is a Shinto shrine in Nara often called Kasuga Grand Shrine. Established in 768 AD and rebuilt several times over the centuries. Kasuga Taisha is famous for its lanterns that have been donated by worshipers: hundreds of bronze lanterns are hanging from the buildings, and many stone lanterns line the approach to the shrine grounds. The lanterns are lit twice a year at the Lantern Festivals in February and August. Kasuga Shrine, and the Kasugayama Primeval Forest behind it are registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites which is part of the "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara”.
    kasuga-lanterns-3.jpg
  • Kasuga-taisha is a Shinto shrine in Nara often called Kasuga Grand Shrine. Established in 768 AD and rebuilt several times over the centuries. Kasuga Taisha is famous for its lanterns that have been donated by worshipers: hundreds of bronze lanterns are hanging from the buildings, and many stone lanterns line the approach to the shrine grounds. The lanterns are lit twice a year at the Lantern Festivals in February and August. Kasuga Shrine, and the Kasugayama Primeval Forest behind it are registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites which is part of the "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara”.
    kasuga-lanterns-1.jpg
  • Kasuga-taisha is a Shinto shrine in Nara often called Kasuga Grand Shrine. Established in 768 AD and rebuilt several times over the centuries. Kasuga Taisha is famous for its lanterns that have been donated by worshipers: hundreds of bronze lanterns are hanging from the buildings, and many stone lanterns line the approach to the shrine grounds. The lanterns are lit twice a year at the Lantern Festivals in February and August. Kasuga Shrine, and the Kasugayama Primeval Forest behind it are registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites which is part of the "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara”.
    kasuga-lanterns-9.jpg
  • Kasuga-taisha is a Shinto shrine in Nara often called Kasuga Grand Shrine. Established in 768 AD and rebuilt several times over the centuries. Kasuga Taisha is famous for its lanterns that have been donated by worshipers: hundreds of bronze lanterns are hanging from the buildings, and many stone lanterns line the approach to the shrine grounds. The lanterns are lit twice a year at the Lantern Festivals in February and August. Kasuga Shrine, and the Kasugayama Primeval Forest behind it are registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites which is part of the "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara”.
    kasuga-lanterns-12.jpg
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