Toshodaiji Temple

Toshodaiji Temple (Nara) is a World Heritage Site which has many buildings dating back to 759 that are National Treasures. Toshodaiji Temple is the head temple in Japan of the Ritsu-shi sect of Buddhism. Toshodaiji Temple was the first temple in Japan to be dedicated to one of the Chinese Buddhist denominations, the Nanzan school. Toshodaiji Temple is still the head temple of Japan’s Ritsu-shu sect of Buddhism. Toshodaiji Temple was established in 759 by Ganjin, a Chinese monk. In 1998 Toshodaiji Temple was inscribed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site as part of the “Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara” listing. Kondo - Golden Hall Toshodaiji Temple Kondo, the Golden Hall, was built in the Nara Period (710 - 794) and is the greatest building surviving in Japan from that period. Kondo is a National Treasure. Kodo - Lecture Hall Toshodaiji Temple Kodo was originally an administrative building in the Nara Imperial Court complex. It was later given to Toshodaiji Temple and the buiding was relocated to its current location. Kodo was used a lecture and assembly hall for the many surrounding temples. Kodo is a National Treasure. Koro - Toshodaiji Temple Koro was built in 1240 and is a National Treasure. Koro is the only multi story building in the Toshodaiji Temple complex. On the 19th of May each year, the Uchiwamaki (fan scattering) ceremony takes place from the Koro. Kyozo - Toshodaiji Temple Kyozo (Sutra Storehouse) was constructed during the Nara Period and is a National Treasure. Hozo - Toshodaiji Temple Hozo (Treasure House) was constructed during the Nara Period and is a National Treasure. Open: 8:30am- 4:30pm Admission: ¥600 Access: A short walk from Nishinokyo Station. |