Nara City (奈良市), which was called "Heijo-kyo" (平城京), was the capital of Japan from A.D. 710-784.  The word "Nara" is probably derived from the Korean word meaning "country," which suggests that Nara was the capital much influenced by the Korean culture while Kyoto was greatly influenced by China, especially the Tang Dynasty (唐, 618-907) and the Sung Dynasty (宋, 960-1279).  The current population of Nara City is 365,469 (March 1, 2005).
  
  The following description is quoted from the UNESCO World Heritage Centre :
  
  Nara was the capital of Japan from 710 to 784.  During this period the framework of national government was consolidated and Nara enjoyed great prosperity, emerging as the fountainhead of Japanese culture.  The city's historic monuments -- Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines and the excavated remains of the great Imperial Palace --provide a vivid picture of life in the Japanese capital in the 8th century, a period of profound political and cultural change.
  
  Criterion (ii): The historic monuments of ancient Nara bear exceptional witness to the evolution of Japanese architecture and art as a result of cultural links with China and Korea which were to have a profound influence on future developments.  Criterion (iii): The flowering of Japanese culture during the period when Nara was the capital is uniquely demonstrated by its architectural heritage.  Criterion (iv): The layout of the Imperial Palace and the design of the surviving monuments in Nara are outstanding examples of the architecture and planning of early Asian capital cities.  Criterion (vi): The Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines of Nara demonstrate the continuing spiritual power and influence of these religions in an exceptional manner.

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Kofuku-ji Temple

Hosso-shu Daihonzan Kofuku-ji Temple (法相宗 大本山 興福寺), 48 Noborioji-cho, Nara City, is one of the most important Buddhist temples of Japan. The origin of Kofuku-ji Temple could date back to 669 AD, the eighth year of the reign of Emperor Tenji (天智天皇, 626-671; r.668-671) when Kagami-no-Okimi (鏡大王, ?-683), consort of the statesman Kamatari Fujiwara (the founder of the Fujiwara clan, 614-669), established a temple at the family estate in Yamashina Suehara (now Kyoto Prefecture) to pray for the recovery of Kamatari's illness. This early Fujiwara tutelary temple was first known as Yamashina-dera Temple. In the temple Kagami-no-Okimi enshrined images of a Shaka triad (Shakyamuni, Gautama Buddha, along with two attendants), which had originally been commissioned at the behest of Kamatari upon his victory over the Soga clan in 645. A few years later the temple was moved to Umayasaka (廐坂) in Asuka, and named "Umayasaka-dera." With the establishment of the capital at Nara (Heijo-kyo) in 710, Yamashina-dera was the first temple to be relocated, and was moved to its present location in a central block of the city. The temple, renamed "Kofuku-ji," grew rapidly in size and wealth under the patronage of successive emperors and empresses, and members of the powerful Fujiwara clan. It developed a particularly close connection with "Hokke" ([藤原]北家; the northern branch; later the main stream) of the Fujiwara family, under the sponsorship the temple gained considerable power. During the Heian Period (794-1191), Kofuku-ji Temple exercised virtual control over Kasuga-taisha Shrine, and became a dominant political power in the Yamato Province. During the Kamakura (1185-1332) and Muromachi (1533/1392-1573) Periods, the two Shogunates made Kofuku-ji Temple the guardian of the province, but the resources of the temple were steadily eroded during the Age of Civil Wars (1477-1568). In 16OO, Ieyasu Tokugawa (1543-1616) attempted to revive Kofuku-ji Temple as a purely religious establishment with a stipend of over 21,OOO koku of rice, which made possible the renovation and reconstruction of many temple buildings. (If 1 koku is supposed to be equivalent to 200,000 yen now, their annual budget would be 4,200,000,000 yen [US$ 36,521,739, US$1=115 yen].) Kofuku-ji Temple was severely affected by the anti-Buddhist policies of the early years of the Meiji Era (1868-1912), when Kasuga-taisha Shrine became independent under the government ordinance forcing the separation of Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples. The majority of Kofuku-ji Temple's property was confiscated at that time, but the temple managed to recover and continues to day as a head temple of the Hosso-shu (法相宗) Sect, one of the oldest sects of Japanese Buddhism. Kofuku-ji Temple is one of the two head temples of the Hosso-shu Sect of Buddhism with Yakushi-ji Temple, Nishinokyo, Nara. It was first founded by Mujaku and Seshin in India. The teaching was brought to China by "Genjo" (玄奘) or "Sanjo-hoshi" (Ch. Hsuan-tsang/Xuan-zang/Hsuan-tsang, 602-664), the author of "Saiyu-ki" (Ch. "Hsi yu chi": The Great Tang Dynasty Record of the Western Regions). The Hosso teachings were transmitted to his disciple Jion-daishi Kiki (慈恩大師窺基; Ch. Tz'u-en Ta-shih, 632-682), who is considered the founder of the Fa-hsiang (Hosso) school in China. These doctrines were introduced to Kohfuku-ji Temple by the monk Genbo (d. 746), who studied in China between 716-735. Main reference: The Official Website of Kohfukuji.

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(Sunday 19 February) Signposts of Kofuku-ji Temple, Noborioji-cho

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(Sunday 19 February) A deer in Nara Park or in the precinct of Kofuku-ji Temple, Noborioji-cho. Nara Park is very famous for preserving deer since the ancient time, because there is a legend that the God of Kasuga-taisha Shrine (see below) descended here riding a white deer.

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(Sunday 19 February) Some deer in Nara Park or in the precinct of Kofuku-ji Temple, Noborioji-cho. Nara Park is very famous for preserving deer since the ancient time, because there is a legend that the God of Kasuga-taisha Shrine (see below) descended here riding a white deer.

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(Sunday 19 February) Some deer in Nara Park or in the precinct of Kofuku-ji Temple, Noborioji-cho. Nara Park is very famous for preserving deer since the ancient time, because there is a legend that the God of Kasuga-taisha Shrine (see below) descended here riding a white deer.

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(Sunday 19 February) "To-Kon-do" (東金堂; the Eastern Golden Hall) and "Gojyu-no-to" (五重塔; the Five Storied Pagoda), Kofuku-ji Temple, Noborioji-cho. "To-Kon-do": This is one of the three "Golden Halls" at Kofuku-ji Temple. The original structure was built at the behest of the Emperor Shomu in 726 to speed the recovery of the ailing Empress Gensho. The current building was built in 1415. It enshrines "Yakushi Nyorai" (Skt. Bhaisajyaguru; The Physician of the Soul), Nikko Bosatsu (Skt. Suryaprabha) and Gakko Bosatsu (Skt. Candraprabha), "Monju Bosatsu" (Skt. Manjusri), Yuima Koji (the Layman Vimalakirti), "Shi-Tenno" (Four Deva Kings), and "Juni Shinsho " (Twelve Heavenly Generals). "Gojyu-no-to": This pagoda was constructed by the Empress Komyo [光明皇后] in 725. The current building is a restoration completed in 1426, and is the second highest pagoda of Japan (50.1 meters high). Inside the structure on the first level, enshrined around the central pillar are a "Yakushi"[Skt. Bhaisajyaguru] triad (to the east), a "Shaka" [Gautama Buddha] triad (to the south), an "Amida" [Amitabha] triad (to the west), and a Miroku triad (to the north).

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(Sunday 19 February) "Gojyu-no-to" (東金堂; the Five Storied Pagoda), Kofuku-ji Temple, Noborioji-cho. "Gojyu-no-to": This pagoda was constructed by the Empress Komyo [光明皇后] in 725. The current building is a restoration completed in 1426, and is the second highest pagoda of Japan (50.1 meters high). Inside the structure on the first level, enshrined around the central pillar are a "Yakushi" [Skt. Bhaisajyaguru] triad (to the east), a "Shaka" [Gautama Buddha] triad (to the south), an "Amida" [Amitabha] triad (to the west), and a Miroku triad (to the north).

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(Sunday 19 February) "Nan-En-do" (南円堂; the Southern Octagonal Hall), Kofuku-ji Temple, Noborioji-cho. This hall is temple number nine of the West Japan thirty-three temple pilgrimage route. The hall was first constructed in 813 by Fuyutsugu Fujiwara (藤原冬嗣, 775-826), though the present building is a reconstruction in 1789. It enshrines "Fukukensaku Kannon" (Skt. Amoghapasa-avalokitesvara; Avalokitesvara of the Unfailing Fishing Line), statues of the six patriarchs of the Hosso school, and "Shi-Tenno" (the Four Deva Kings).

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(Sunday 19 February) "Hoku-En-do" (北円堂; the Northern Octagonal Hall), Kofuku-ji Temple, Noborioji-cho. This hall was originally built by the Empress Genmei [元明天皇; 661-721; r.707-715] and the Empress Gensho [元正天皇; 680-748; r.715-724] in 72l, to honor the first anniversary of the death of Fuhito Fujiwara [藤原不比等; 659-720]. The current building is a reconstruction which dates to approximately 1210. The enshrined images were made by the renown sculptor Unkei [運慶; ?-1223]. These include the main alter image of Miroku Nyorai (Skt. Maitreya), the Bodhisattvas Mujaku (Skt. Asanga) and "Seshin" (Skt. Vasubandhu), and "Shi-Tenno" (the Four Deva Kings) , all of which are National Treasures. This building is open to the public only during special viewing periods in the spring and fall. (The dates of the openings vary from year to year. Please inquire further for details.)

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(Sunday 19 February) "Kari-Kon-do" (the Temporary Golden Hall), Kofuku-ji Temple, Noborioji-cho. The construction of "Chu-Kon-do" (the Central Golden Hall) reportedly began in 7lO at the behest of Fuhito Fujiwara, and completed in 714 . The present structure, which was restored in 1811, has long suffered from heavy rain damage and is no longer functional. In order to halt the deterioration of the statues they have been moved to this "Kari-Kondo" (the Temporary Golden Hall) to the immediate north, which was once the site of the Sutra Hall.

Todai-ji Temple

Kegon-shu Daihonzan Todai-ji Temple (華厳宗 大本山 東大寺), 406-1 Zoshi-cho, Nara City, is the head temple of the Kegon-shu sect. The origin of Todai-ji Temple lies in a temple called "Kinshosan-ji" (金鐘山寺) which was founded in 728 for the repose of the spirit of Crown Prince Motoi, son of Emperor Shomu (r.724-749). In 741 when the Emperor issued his edict ordering the construction of a national system of monasteries (Kinkomyo-ji Temple; 金光明寺) known as the Kokubun-ji Temple (国分寺), Kinshosan-ji Temple was elevated in status. In 743 Emperor Shomu issued his proclamation for the erection of a Great Buddha (大仏) and when the capital was returned to Heijo-kyo (平城京) construction of the colossal image of Vairocana was begun on the grounds of the Kinkomyo-ji Temple and was completed in 749. Construction of the Great Buddha Hall took place concurrently and the image was dedicated in 752 with a lavish consecration ceremony. Subsequently the Office of Construction of Todai-ji Temple supervised the building of the West and East Pagodas, the Lecture Hall and Monks' Quarters to complete the temple complex. Because Todai-ji Temple was the chief temple in the Kokubun-ji system, it was a center for rituals for the peace of the nation and the prosperity of the people; it also functioned, however, as a center for the training of scholar monks who studied the Buddhist doctrines. In 855, the head of the Great Buddha fell off in a major earthquake. The image was quickly restored. In subsequent years fires and lightening destroyed the Lecture Hall, the Monks' Quarters and the West Pagoda. In 1180 more than half of the compound including the Great Buddha Hall was destroyed in the fire that resulted from the attack on the Nara temples by Shigehira Taira (平 重衡). In the next year restoration of the temple was begun by the monk Chogen (重源, 1121-1206) and in 1185 the Great Buddha was consecrated. In the following year Suo Province (周防国; now Yamaguchi) was designated to provide income for the reconstruction of Todai-ji Temple and the pace of the work increased. Ten years later the Great Buddha Hall was completely restored. As the temple was reconstructed, scholastic activities which had been stagnant were also revived and during the Kamakura Period (1185/1192-1333) the temple trained many scholar monks. In 1567, however, the temple burned again during a skirmish between the Miyoshi (三好) and Matsunaga (松永) clans, and the only structures not burned were the Nigatsu-do (二月堂) Hall, the Hokke-do, the Great South Gate, Tegai-mon Gate, Shoso-in (正倉院) and the Bell Tower. Because the country was still in the aftermath of the Age of Civil Wars (1477-1568), restoration was extremely difficult and the only repairs that could be made were to cover the head of the Great Buddha with copper sheeting. Finally in the mid-Edo Period (1603-1867), the monk Kokei (公慶, 1648-1705) petitioned the Shogunate for permission to solicit donations throughout the country and to seek the assistance of some powerful warlords and thus a proper restoration finally began. As a result of these efforts, the present Great Buddha was consecrated in 1692 and the Great Buddha Hall was dedicated in 1709. In 1868, the beginning of the Meiji Era (1868-1912), edicts legislating the separation of Shinto and Buddhist religious establishments and the confiscation of temple feuds threatened the existence of Todai-ji Temple. Nevertheless, the temple managed to carry out major repairs to the Great Buddha Hall at the start of the twentieth century and again in the 1970s and has striven to preserve the extensive compound with all its structures. Todai-ji Temple today preserves many precious cultural treasures from the temple's past, yet it also is a treasure house of traditional Buddhist rituals such as "Shuni-e" (修二会) held at the Nigatsu-do Hall. Main reference: The Official Pamphlet of Todai-ji Temple, translated by Samuel C. Morse, 2002.

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(Sunday 19 February) Deer and Signpost of "Kegon-shu DaihonzanTodai-ji Temple," Zoshi-cho, Nara Park

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(Sunday 19 February) A souvenir shop "Mori-no-O-Nara-zuke" (pickles seasoned in sake lees) in the approach to Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho. If you like the traditional Japanese pickles called "Nara-zuke," this is the place to go!

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(Sunday 19 February) A mendicant (begging bonze) on the bridge over the Mizuya-gawa River of the Yoshiki-gawa water system near "Nandai-mon" (the Great South Gate), Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho

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(Sunday 19 February) Monument for commemorating the 1998 registration on the UNESCO World Heritage, Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho

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(Sunday 19 February) "Nandai-mon" (the Great South Gate), Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho. The Great South Gate is the main gate of Todai-ji Temple. The original, erected during the Nara Period (710-784), was destroyed by a typhoon during the Heian Period (794-1185/1192). The present structure, which dates to the Kamakura Period (1185/1192-1333), was built using what is known as the "Daibutsu style." A type of construction based upon the Sung Chinese models, it was newly introduced to Japan by Chogen (重源, 1121-1206), the monk responsible for restoring Todai-ji Temple, at the end of the twelfth century. The ridgepole was raised in 1199 and the structure was completed in 1203 along with the statues of the guardian deities, "Ni-o" (the Two Deva Kings) housed in the gate. the gate with its double hips-and-gable roof is five bays wide and two bays deep. Originally there were three pairs of doors. The eighteen giant pillars that support the roof measure twenty-one meters and the entire structure rises 25.46 meters above the stone plinth on which it rests. The Great South Gate is the largest temple entrance gate of Japan, suitable in scale to the Great Buddha Hall. (Quoted from the official pamphlet Todai-ji Temple, translated by Samuel C. Morse, 2002.)

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(Sunday 19 February) "Nandai-mon" (the Great South Gate), Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho

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(Sunday 19 February) One of "Kongo Rikishi" (the Two Deva Kings) in the Great South Gate, Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho Made for 69 days in 1203 under the direction of the two famous sculptors Unkei (運慶, ?-1223) and Kaikei (快慶, ?-?; worked between 1183-1236).

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(Sunday 19 February) The other of "Kongo Rikishi" (the Two Deva Kings) in the Great South Gate, Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho Made for 69 days in 1203 under the direction of the two famous sculptors Unkei (運慶, ?-1223) and Kaikei (快慶, ?-?; worked between 1183-1236).

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(Sunday 19 February) "Chu-mon" (the Middle Gate), Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho

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(Sunday 19 February) "Daibustu-den" (the Great Buddha Hall), Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho. The Great Buddha Hall is "Kon-do" (the Main Hall) of Todai-ji Temple. Built first in the Nara Period (710-784) it has been destroyed twice by fire in 1180 and again in 1567. The present structure, dating the Edo Period, was built under the direction of the monk Kokei (公慶, 1648-1705). The original hall and the one rebuilt in 1195, were both eleven bays wide; the present structure, however, was reduced in size to seven bays because only limited funds were available. Nevertheless, the height and depth of the structure remain the same as those of the original. The Great Buddha Hall is the largest wooden structure in the world. Dimensions: Width --- 57.012 m; Length --- 50.480 m; Height --- 48.742 m. (Quoted from the official pamphlet Todai-ji Temple, translated by Samuel C. Morse, 2002.)

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(Sunday 19 February) "Hakkaku-toro" (the Octagonal Lantern), Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho The Octagonal Lantern in front of the Great Buddha Hall dates from the time of the founding of Todai-ji Temple. The distinctive large fire chamber is covered with a sloping roof surmounted by a jewel-like form. It rests upon a stone base supported by a stone post emanating from a lotiform pedestal. The eight panels of the fire chamber are grilles of diamond shapes. The four stationary panels are ornamented with celestial musicians while the four pairs of hinged doors are decorated with lions running across clouds. The conception of the celestial musicians is particularly wonderful with their lithe poses, well-realized foreshortening of their chests and their hands that hold instruments, and the movement of the scarves caught by the wind. The post bears an excerpt from a Buddhist text extolling the merits of lighting lanterns. (Quoted from the official pamphlet Todaij-i Temple, translated by Samuel C. Morse, 2002.)

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(Sunday 19 February) "Birushana-butsu" (毘婁紗那仏; "Daibutsu"; Vairocana Buddha), Great Buddha Hall, Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho The Daibutsu (the Great Buddha Image) is properly known as Vairocana Buddha, the Buddha the light of whose knowledge and compassion illumines widely. "Shakyamuni", the Historical Buddha (Gautama Buddha), who was born in the city of Kapilavastsu in India sometime around 580 B.C.E., became a mendicant at the age of twenty-nine and after spending six years practising austerities eventually gained great religious insight at the foot of the Bodhi Tree on the banks of the Nairanjana River. "Kegon-kyo" (the Avatam saka Sutra) describes the moment of Shakyamuni's enlightenment as his achievement of the condition of a Buddha who transcends both space and time. It describes the world of Vairocana as magnificent, virtuous and grand and embellished by the various accomplishments of the bodhisattvas. According to the text, the songs of birds, the colors of flowers, the flowing of water and the forms of clouds are all part of Vairocana's teachings to save all living things. On the lotus petals on the base of the Great Buddha are engravings of "Rengezo Sekai" (the World of the Lotus Treasury), pictorial representations of the "world of enlightenment" described in the sutra. They are beautiful representations of the notion that each individual is not an isolated existence, but that all phenomena have limitless connections and dimensions and that the entire universe is enveloped in the light of Vairocana's wisdom. (Quoted from the official pamphlet Todai-ji Temple, translated by Samuel C. Morse, 2002.)

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(Sunday 19 February) "Birushana-butsu" ("Daibutsu"; Vairocana Buddha), Great Buddha Hall, Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho

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(Sunday 19 February) "Birushana-butsu" ("Daibutsu"; Vairocana Buddha), Great Buddha Hall, Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho

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(Sunday 19 February) "Birushana-butsu" ("Daibutsu"; Vairocana Buddha), Great Buddha Hall, Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho

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(Sunday 19 February) "Kokuzo Bosatsu" (虚空蔵菩薩; Skt. Akasagarbha; Bodhisattava of "Vast and Boundless Vessel"; Deity of Wisdom and Memory), Great Buddha Hall, Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho

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(Sunday 19 February) "Komoku-ten" (廣目天; Skt. Dhanada; the Guardian of West), Great Buddha Hall, Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho. "Komoku-ten" is one of the "Shi-Tenno" (四天王; the Four Guardian Kings of Buddhism).

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(Sunday 19 February) "Tamon-ten" (多聞天; Skt. Vaisravana; also known as "Bishamon-ten" [毘沙門天]; the Guardian of North), Great Buddha Hall, Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho. "Tamon-ten" is one of the "Shi-Tenno" (四天王; the Four Guardian Kings of Buddhism).

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(Sunday 19 February) "Nyoirin Kannon" (如意輪観音; Skt. Chintamanichakra Avalokiteshvara), Great Buddha Hall, Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho. "Nyoirin Kannon" is one of the six prinpal forms of "Kannon" (Skt. Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara) worshiped in Japanese Esoteric (Vajrayana) Buddhism.

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(Sunday 19 February) "Binzuru" (賓頭盧; Skt. Pindola Bharadvaja), Great Buddha Hall, Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho. (Wood, 18th century) Pindola was one of the sixteen arahats, who were disciples of the Buddha. Pindola is said to have excelled in the mastery of occult powers. It is commonly believed in Japan that when a person rubs a part of the image of "Binzuru" and then rubs the corresponding part of his/her own body, his/her ailment there will disappear. Cf. the Asuka Area page.

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(Sunday 19 February) "Kairo" (Corridors), viewed from the Great Buddha Hall, Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho.

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(Friday 12 March) Todai-ji Nigatsu-do Shunie O-mizu-tori O-taimatsu (東大寺二月堂修二会 お水取り お松明) at "Nigatsu-do" Hall (二月堂), Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho. The Shuni-e (修二会; literally "Second-Month Service") is a ceremony held each year at certain Buddhist temples in Japan. The name comes from its observance in the second month of the lunisolar calendar. Today, the service is usually held in either February or March, depending on temples. One of the popularly known Shuni-e is the one at Todai-ji Temple in Nara, held between March 1st and the morning of March 15. The Todai-ji Shuni-e ceremony was originally started by Jitchu (実忠, ?-824), a monk of the Kegon school, as a devotion and confession to the Bodhisattva Kannon（Skt. Avalokitesvara). It has continued every year since 752, though it was held at a different site until the Nigatsu-do Hall was completed in 772. The ceremony is also known as Omizutori (お水取り), the name of its climactic ritual. The ceremony actually comprises an array of ceremonies centered around repentance to the Bodhisattva Kannon and prayers for the welfare of society. Two of the best known ceremonies of the Shuni-e are the Fire Ceremony (otaimatsu in Japanese) and the Omizutori, or "Water Ceremony". The origins of the Todai-ji Shuni-e ceremony are unclear, but an illustrated text in 1586 cites a legend surrounding the monk Jitchu. According to the story, Jitchu wandered into a cave in the year 751, and the cave led him to the Buddhist heaven realm of Tushita (Tosotsuten in Japanese). There, in the cave, he observed 49 shrines of devotion to various Buddhist figures, and heavenly beings frantically running between shrines over and over to pay obeisances and offerings. One particularly grand shrine was devoted to the Bodhisattva Kannon, in his eleven-faced form, crowded with beings taking part in a grand repentance ritual. Jitchu was so moved by the ceremony, he asked one of the heavenly beings if he could take part, but was refused because time in Tushita Heaven is much faster than on Earth. According to the being, one day in Tushita would be equivalent to 400 years. However, Jitchu resolved to reproduce the ceremony anyways, and after further adventures, establishes the Shuni-e rite, devoted to the 11-faced form of Kannon Bodhisattva. Sources show that the Empress Dowager, Komyo, was a devout patroness of Jitchu, and she originally allowed the use of her administrative office to perform the rite. When she died later, and her office was abolished, Jitchu moved the rite to the current location of the Nigatsu-do Hall in the temple of Todai-ji in Nara, Japan. The liturgy and ceremony remains largely unchanged during this time. The core repentance ritual of the Shuni-e, closed to the public, is performed by a select group of eleven monks called rengyoshu, who engage in a repentance session six times a day. The Fire Ceremony: Every night, ten select believers (eleven on March 12) shoulder large pine torches as long as 8 meters and weighing as much as 80 kilograms. Girded with swords and staves, the torch-bearers climb a flight of stairs and run along the balcony of the Nigatsu-do, showering sparks on the public below. It is thought that these sacred sparks will protect the recipient from evil. The monks also chant, perform ritual circumambulation, and wave swords to ward off evil spirits. The Water Ceremony: Underneath the Nigatsu-do Hall is the Wakasa Well, from which, according to legend, water springs forth only once a year. After the final night of the Fire Ceremony, the monks gather water from the well around 2 a.m. by torchlight, after which the water is offered to Kannon and to the general public. It is popularly believed that this water, being sacred, can cure ailments. The water from the well is actually gathered into two pots, one containing water from the previous year, and another containing water from all previous observances of the ceremony. The 2010 festival was held from March 1 to March 14, 2010. (Referred to the site of "Wikipedia.")

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(Friday 12 March) Todai-ji Nigatsu-do Shunie O-mizu-tori O-taimatsu (東大寺二月堂修二会 お水取り お松明) at "Nigatsu-do" Hall (二月堂), Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho.

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(Friday 12 March) Todai-ji Nigatsu-do Shunie O-mizu-tori O-taimatsu (東大寺二月堂修二会 お水取り お松明) at "Nigatsu-do" Hall (二月堂), Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho.

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(Friday 12 March) Todai-ji Nigatsu-do Shunie O-mizu-tori O-taimatsu (東大寺二月堂修二会 お水取り お松明) at "Nigatsu-do" Hall (二月堂), Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho.

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(Friday 12 March) Todai-ji Nigatsu-do Shunie O-mizu-tori O-taimatsu (東大寺二月堂修二会 お水取り お松明) at "Nigatsu-do" Hall (二月堂), Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho.

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(Friday 12 March) Todai-ji Nigatsu-do Shunie O-mizu-tori O-taimatsu (東大寺二月堂修二会 お水取り お松明) at "Nigatsu-do" Hall (二月堂), Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho.

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(Friday 12 March) Todai-ji Nigatsu-do Shunie O-mizu-tori O-taimatsu (東大寺二月堂修二会 お水取り お松明) at "Nigatsu-do" Hall (二月堂), Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho.

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(Friday 12 March) Todai-ji Nigatsu-do Shunie O-mizu-tori O-taimatsu (東大寺二月堂修二会 お水取り お松明) at "Nigatsu-do" Hall (二月堂), Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho.

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(Friday 12 March) Todai-ji Nigatsu-do Shunie O-mizu-tori O-taimatsu (東大寺二月堂修二会 お水取り お松明) at "Nigatsu-do" Hall (二月堂), Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho.

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(Friday 12 March) Todai-ji Nigatsu-do Shunie O-mizu-tori O-taimatsu (東大寺二月堂修二会 お水取り お松明) at "Nigatsu-do" Hall (二月堂), Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho.

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(Friday 12 March) Todai-ji Nigatsu-do Shunie O-mizu-tori O-taimatsu (東大寺二月堂修二会 お水取り お松明) at "Nigatsu-do" Hall (二月堂), Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho.

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(Friday 12 March) Todai-ji Nigatsu-do Shunie O-mizu-tori O-taimatsu (東大寺二月堂修二会 お水取り お松明) at "Nigatsu-do" Hall (二月堂), Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho.

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(Friday 12 March) Todai-ji Nigatsu-do Shunie O-mizu-tori O-taimatsu (東大寺二月堂修二会 お水取り お松明) at "Nigatsu-do" Hall (二月堂), Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho.

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(Friday 12 March) Todai-ji Nigatsu-do Shunie O-mizu-tori O-taimatsu (東大寺二月堂修二会 お水取り お松明) at "Nigatsu-do" Hall (二月堂), Todai-ji Temple, Zoshi-cho.

Kasuga-taisha Shrine

Kasuga-taisha Shrine (春日大社), 160 Kasugano-cho, Nara City, is the largest shrine in Nara City. It was founded 1,200 years at the time when the capital moved to Nara. The fourd main shrines are dedicated to the deities "Takemikazuchi-no-mikoto" (武甕槌命) from Kashima-jingu Shrine (鹿島神宮), Ibaraki and "Futsu-nushi-no-mikoto" (経津主命) from Katori-jingu Shrine (香取神宮), Chiba, who achieved great exploits at the time of foundation of the Japanese nation, and to the divine ancestors of the Fujiwara family "Ame-no-koyane-no-mikoto" (天児屋根命) and his consort "Hime-gami" (比売神), both from Hiraoka-jinjya Shrine (枚岡神社), Osaka. In the ancient times she shrine contained the "Uji-gami" (氏神; tutelar deity) of the Fujiwara family, but today it is worshipped by many inhabitants in Nara. Since its foundation, the shrine has been worshipped especially by the Imperial Court, and historical records cite numerous Imperial visits. Also due to its role as the abode for the "Uji-gami" of the Fujiwara family, and the shrine often had many visits of various regents, ministers, and family heads. In addition, the Kasuga belief penetrated deeply throughout the entire nation, and branch shrines were established over the country. Believers were subsequently organized into groups called "Kasuga-do." The connection of Kasuga-taisha Shrine with the Buddhist temple Kofuku-ji (興福寺), already well-established because of their respective status as the "Uji-gami" and "Uji-dera" (氏寺; family temple) of the Fujiwara family, was further deepened by the influence of the Jonjisuijaku syncretization movement between Shinto and Buddhism. Firmly united, the Kasuga-taisha Shrine and Kofuku-ji Temple contributed immeasurably to the progress of thought and culture in ancient Japan. (Quoted from the Official Pamphlet of Kasuga Taisha.) It is noted that there are no "Koma-inu" (foo-dog/ stone-carved guardian dogs at the gate of a Shinto shrine) here as well as Kashima-jingu Shrine because deer are generally scared of dogs.

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(Sunday 19 February) Monument for commemorating the 1998 registration on the UNESCO World Heritage, Kasuga-taisha Shrine, Kasugano-cho

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(Sunday 19 February) "Ni-no-Torii" (the Second Shrine Gate), Kasuga-taisha Shrine, Kasugano-cho

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(Sunday 19 February) Ishi-doro" (the Stone Lanterns) along the approach to Kasuga-taisha Shrine, Kasugano-cho

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(Sunday 19 February) A small shrine, Kasuga-taisha Shrine, Kasugano-cho

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(Sunday 19 February) Visitors and deer in the approach to Kasuga-taisha Shrine, Kasugano-cho. The main deity "Takemikazuchi-no-mikoto" (武甕槌命) rode a white deer and flew here from Kashima-jingu Shrine (鹿島神宮), Ibaraki. Since then, people have been worshipping deer as the divine animal. Oddly, deer in this park bow their heads to visitors. Some say that they learned how to bow from members of the Fujiwara family in the Heian Period (794-1085/1092): The Fujiwara clan bowed their heads to the divine deer even when they rode on a oxcart and expressly dismounted from it. Doubtlessly their behavior helps themselves to get "Shika-sembei" (Japanese rice cracker especially for deer).

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(Sunday 19 February) In the approach to Kasuga-taisha Shrine, Kasugano-cho

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(Sunday 19 February) "San-no-Torii" (the Third Shrine Gate), Kasuga-taisha Shrine, Kasugano-cho

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(Sunday 19 February) A small shrine, Kasuga-taisha Shrine, Kasugano-cho

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(Sunday 19 February) "Keiun-den" Hall, Kasuga-taisha Shrine, Kasugano-cho

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(Sunday 19 February) Approach to "Hon-den" (Main Hall), Kasuga-taisha Shrine, Kasugano-cho

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(Sunday 19 February) The sacred stone called "Iwakura" (the Sitting Stone)/"Shutsugen-seki" (the Stone of Apparition)/"Gaku-zuka" (the Frontlet Mound), Kasuga-taisha Shrine, Kasugano-cho

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(Sunday 19 February) "Nan-mon" (the South Gate), Kasuga-taisha Shrine, Kasugano-cho

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(Sunday 19 February) "Nan-mon" (the South Gate), Kasuga-taisha Shrine, Kasugano-cho

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(Sunday 19 February) "Hei-den" (弊殿; Oratory), Kasuga-taisha Shrine, Kasugano-cho

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(Sunday 19 February) "Hei-den" (Oratory), Kasuga-taisha Shrine, Kasugano-cho

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(Sunday 19 February) "Naorai-den" (直会殿; a shrine building to which priests retire after performing the Shinto ritual of offering food and drink to the gods), Kasuga-taisha Shrine, Kasugano-cho

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(Sunday 19 February) "Honsha-Osugi" (本社大杉; the Big Japanese Cedar at the Main Shrine), Kasuga-taisha Shrine, Kasugano-cho. It is estimated to be over 1,000 years old and it is depiected in a picture scroll "The Gongen-kenki of Kasuga-Taisha" (春日権現験記, 1309); height 23.0 m, circumference 7.94 m).

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(Sunday 19 February) Honsha-Osugi" (本社大杉; the Big Japanese Cedar at the Main Shrine), Kasuga-taisha Shrine, Kasugano-cho. It is estimated to be over 1,000 years old and it is depicted in a picture scroll "The Gongen-kenki of Kasuga-Taisha" (春日権現験記, 1309); height 23.0 m, circumference 7.94 m).

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(Sunday 19 February) A small shrine for Honsha-Osugi" (本社大杉; the Big Japanese Cedar at the Main Shrine), Kasuga-taisha Shrine, Kasugano-cho

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(Sunday 19 February) "Hon-den" (the Main Shrine), Kasuga-taisha Shrine, Kasugano-cho; reservation required.

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(Sunday 19 February) "Chu-mon" (the Middle Gate), Kasuga-taisha Shrine, Kasugano-cho; The Gate to "Hon-den" (the Main Shrine; reservation required).

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(Sunday 19 February) "Sei-mon" (the West Gate) with numerous prayer flags for "Enmei-chojyu" (延命長寿; longevity), Kasuga-taisha Shrine, Kasugano-cho

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(Sunday 19 February) "Taga-jinjya" Shrine (多賀神社; the God of Longevity), Kasuga-taisha Shrine, Kasugano-cho

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(Sunday 19 February) "Tsuri-Toros" (釣り灯篭; the Hanging Lanterns) behind the Naorai-den Hall, Kasuga-taisha Shrine, Kasugano-cho

Heijo-kyo Remains

The Heijo-kyo Remains [平城京 史跡] is located east of Yamato-Saidaiji Station on Kintetsu Line. Ancient Nara or Henjo-kyo was built on the northern edge of the Nara Basin as Japan's new capital in 710 A.D after Fujiwara-kyo (藤原京) near Asuka (飛鳥). The streets were laid out in a grid pattern. The city was filled with houses, temples and markets, and had a population of 100,000 to 200,000. Nara Palace was located in the north-central part of the heart of the city and extended 1 km north and south and 1.3 km east and west (1/4 scale of the ancient Chinese capital Changan (長安; now Xi'an [西安]). It was the heart of the city and included the Imperial Domicile, government offices and other facilities. However, the capital was moved in 784 A.D to Nagaoka-kyo (長岡京), then to Heian-kyo (平安京; now Kyoto [京都]). As the time went by, the site was buried. Nara Palace Site is now preserved as a national historic site, and is being excavated and studied by the Independent Administrative National Research Institute for Cultural Properties, Nara. The excavation has revealed many facts including the existence of the eastern portion and the relocation of the Great Hall of State. After each stage of excavation, the site is reburied and its original appearance is presented in various ways.

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(Sunday 19 February) Information board of Heijo-kyo Remains

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(Sunday 19 February) Map of Heijo-kyo Remains

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(Sunday 19 February) "Heijo-kyo ato Shiryo-kan" (Institute for Heijo-kyo Remains)/"Nara Bunkazai Kenkyujo" (Research Center for Cultural Properties of Nara), Heijo-kyo Remains

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(Sunday 19 February) Information board of the Well of Office of Rice Wines and Vinegars, Heijo-kyo Remains

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(Sunday 19 February) Well of Office of Rice Wines and Vinegars, Heijo-kyo Remains, Heijo-kyo Remains

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(Sunday 19 February) Heijo-kyo Remains

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(Sunday 19 February) Heijo-kyo Remains

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(Sunday 19 February) Heijo-kyo Remains

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(Sunday 19 February) Heijo-kyo Remains

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(Sunday 19 February) Sign of "Suzaku-mon" (朱雀門; Suzaku Gate; South Central Gate), Heijo-kyo Remains

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(Sunday 19 February) Information board of "Suzaku-mon," Heijo-kyo Remains. Suzaku Gate (朱雀門), located in the center of the South Wall, was the main gate of Nara Palace. The name "Suzaku" derives from the Chinese name for the legendary bird which acted as a southern guardian. Built on a platform, Suzaku Gate was probably a two-storied structure, conspicuously larger than the other gates of the palace. The open space to the front was used for ceremonies such as New Year celebrations. The present gate was reconstructed in 1991-1997 (height 22 m, frontage 25 m & depth 10 m). Suzaku Avenue, the main street of the capital, was about 70 meters wide and ran from Rajo Gate (羅城門), the main gate of the city, to Suzaku Gate.

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(Sunday 19 February) Suzaku-mon" (朱雀門; Suzaku Gate; South Central Gate), Heijo-kyo Remains

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(Sunday 19 February) Suzaku-mon" (朱雀門; Suzaku Gate; South Central Gate), Heijo-kyo Remains

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(Sunday 19 February) Suzaku-mon" (朱雀門; Suzaku Gate; South Central Gate), Heijo-kyo Remains

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(Sunday 19 February) Suzaku-mon" (朱雀門; Suzaku Gate; South Central Gate), Heijo-kyo Remains

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(Sunday 19 February) Suzaku-mon" (朱雀門; Suzaku Gate; South Central Gate), Heijo-kyo Remains

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(Wednesday 17 March) Illustration of the 1300th anniversary restoration of the transfer of Heijo-kyo

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(Wednesday 17 March) The 1300th anniversary restoration of the transfer of Heijo-kyo

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(Wednesday 17 March) Guidepost of the 1300th anniversary restoration of the transfer of Heijo-kyo

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(Wednesday 17 March) Daiichi-Daigoku-den (第一大極殿; the First Great Ceremonial Hall), Heijo-kyo Remains

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(Wednesday 17 March) Daiichi-Daigoku-den (第一大極殿; the First Great Ceremonial Hall), Heijo-kyo Remains

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(Wednesday 17 March) Daiichi-Daigoku-den (第一大極殿; the First Great Ceremonial Hall), Heijo-kyo Remains

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(Wednesday 17 March) Daiichi-Daigoku-den (第一大極殿; the First Great Ceremonial Hall), Heijo-kyo Remains

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(Wednesday 17 March) Suzaku-mon" (朱雀門; Suzaku Gate; South Central Gate), Heijo-kyo Remains

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(Wednesday 17 March) Suzaku-mon" (朱雀門; Suzaku Gate; South Central Gate), Heijo-kyo Remains

Sugawara Tenman-gu Shrine

Sugawara Tenman-gu Shrine (菅原天満宮) is located at 518 Sugawara-cho, Nara City (奈良市菅原町518). It enshrines Amenohoki-no-mikoto (天穂日命), Nominosukune (野見宿禰) and Michizane Sugawara (菅原 道真). This area was called "Sugawara-mura" (菅原邑) where the Sugawara clan lived for generations. Amenohoki-no-mikoto and Nominosukune are the Sugawara clan's ancestral gods. The faoundation date of the shrine is unknown, but it has enshrined Amenohoki-no-mikoto for a long time. Michizane is said to have been born here when his mother visited here for having a baby at her parents' house.

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(Wednesday 17 March) Shrine Gate to Sugawara Tenman-gu Shrine

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(Wednesday 17 March) Hai-den" (拝殿; the Worshippers' Hall), Sugawara Tenman-gu Shrine

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(Wednesday 17 March) "Hai-den" (拝殿; the Worshippers' Hall), Sugawara Tenman-gu Shrine

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(Wednesday 17 March) Stone statue of the Sacred Cow, Sugawara Tenman-gu Shrine

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(Wednesday 17 March) "Sugawara Michizane-ko Ubuyu-no-ike" (菅原道真公産湯の池; the Pond Used for Lord Michizane Sugawara's First Bath) where they reportedly used the water for washing new-born Michizane Sugawara. Also known as "Tenjin-bori" (天神堀).

Okonomiyaki Restaurant Onishi

Okonomiyaki Restaurant Onishi (大にし) is located at 1-5 Saidaiji-Kobo-cho, Nara City (奈良県奈良市西大寺小坊町1-5) near Yamato-Saidaiji Station (大和西大寺駅) on the Kintetsu Line (近鉄線) and Saidai-ji Temple (西大寺).

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(Wednesday 17 March) Okonomiyaki Restaurant Onishi, 1-5 Saidaiji-Kobo-cho, Nara City

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(Wednesday 17 March) Our lunch at Okonomiyaki Restaurant Onishi, 1-5 Saidaiji-Kobo-cho, Nara City

Shoho-san Saidai-ji Temple

Shoho-san Saidai-ji Temple (勝宝山 西大寺) is located at 1-1-5 Saidaiji-Shiba-machi, Nara City (奈良市西大寺芝町1-1-5). it is the head temple of Shingon-Risshu sect (真言律宗) of Buddhism. it was founded by Joto (常騰, 740-815) at the request of the 46th Empress Koken (孝謙天皇; 718-770; r.749-758; later 48th Empress Shotoku [称徳天皇]; r.764-770) in the first year of Tempyojingo (天平神護) or 765. Now this temple is sacred to Shakyamuni Tathagata (釈迦如来; the Incarnation of Truth). Originally the temple was as large as Todai-ji Temple (東大寺) built by Empress Koken's father, Emperor Shomu (聖武天皇; 701-756; r.724-749). Saidai-ji literally means "West Great Temple" while Todai-ji means "East Great Temple."

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(Wednesday 17 March) Ad for Shoho-san Saidai-ji Temple, 1-1-5 Saidaiji-Shiba-machi, Nara City

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(Wednesday 17 March) Another ad for Shoho-san Saidai-ji Temple, 1-1-5 Saidaiji-Shiba-machi, Nara City

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(Wednesday 17 March) "To-mon" (東門; the East Gate), Shoho-san Saidai-ji Temple, 1-1-5 Saidaiji-Shiba-machi, Nara City

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(Wednesday 17 March) "Nan-mon" (南門; the South Gate), Shoho-san Saidai-ji Temple, 1-1-5 Saidaiji-Shiba-machi, Nara City

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(Wednesday 17 March) "Nan-mon" (南門; the South Gate), Shoho-san Saidai-ji Temple, 1-1-5 Saidaiji-Shiba-machi, Nara City

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(Wednesday 17 March) An inner view from "Nan-mon" (南門; the South Gate), Shoho-san Saidai-ji Temple, 1-1-5 Saidaiji-Shiba-machi, Nara City

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(Wednesday 17 March) "To-to-ato" (東塔跡; the East Tower Remains) and "Hon-do" (本堂; the Main Hall), Shoho-san Saidai-ji Temple

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(Wednesday 17 March) "To-to-ato" (東塔跡; the East Tower Remains) and "Hon-do" (本堂; the Main Hall), Shoho-san Saidai-ji Temple

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(Wednesday 17 March) "Hon-do" (本堂; the Main Hall), Shoho-san Saidai-ji Temple

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(Wednesday 17 March) "Hon-do" (本堂; the Main Hall), Shoho-san Saidai-ji Temple

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(Wednesday 17 March) "Hon-do" (本堂; the Main Hall), Shoho-san Saidai-ji Temple

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(Wednesday 17 March) Aizen-do Hall (愛染堂;the Hall dedicated to "Aizen-myo-o"[愛染明王; Skt. Ragaraja]), Shoho-san Saidai-ji Temple

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(Wednesday 17 March) Aizen-do Hall (愛染堂;the Hall dedicated to "Aizen-myo-o"[愛染明王; Skt. Ragaraja]), Shoho-san Saidai-ji Temple

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(Wednesday 17 March) "Sho-ro" (鐘楼), Shoho-san Saidai-ji Temple

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(Wednesday 17 March) "Sho-ro" (鐘楼), Shoho-san Saidai-ji Temple

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(Wednesday 17 March) "Shuku-bo" (宿坊; the residential building), Shoho-san Saidai-ji Temple, 1-1-5 Saidaiji-Shiba-machi, Nara City

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(Wednesday 17 March) "Terayama Daishi-do" (寺山大師堂; the Founder's Hall), Shoho-san Saidai-ji Temple, 1-1-5 Saidaiji-Shiba-machi, Nara City

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(Wednesday 17 March) Statue of Jizo (地蔵; Ksitigarbha-bodhisattva; a guardian deity of children), Shoho-san Saidai-ji Temple, 1-1-5 Saidaiji-Shiba-machi, Nara City

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(Wednesday 17 March) A memorial monument, Shoho-san Saidai-ji Temple, 1-1-5 Saidaiji-Shiba-machi, Nara City

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(Wednesday 17 March) "Daikoku-ten-do" (大黒天堂; the Hall to dedicated to Mahakala [the God of Wealth]), Shoho-san Saidai-ji Temple, 1-1-5 Saidaiji-Shiba-machi, Nara City

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(Wednesday 17 March) The sect office of Shingon-Risshu (真言律宗), Shoho-san Saidai-ji Temple, 1-1-5 Saidaiji-Shiba-machi, Nara City

Akishino-dera

Akishino-dera Temple (秋篠寺) is located at 757 Akishino-cho, Nara City (奈良市秋篠町757), north of Shoho-san Saidai-ji Temple. The temple does not belong to a particular sect of Buddhism. it was founded by Zenjyu (善珠, 723-797) in the late Nara Period in the late eighth century. This temple is dedicated to "Yakushi-norai" (薬師如来; Bhechadjaguru; the Physician of Souls). It has two national treasures, "Hon-do" (本堂; the main hall) and the statue of "Gigei-ten" (技芸天; a minor deity and patroness of the arts).

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(Wednesday 17 March) Hassho-Goryo-jinjya Shrine (八所御霊神社) whose main building was made in the 11th year of Hoki (宝亀11年) or 780, the guardian shrine of Akishino-dera Temple. It is located west of Akishino-dera Temple.

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(Wednesday 17 March) Hassho-Goryo-jinjya Shrine (八所御霊神社) whose main building was made in the 11th year of Hoki (宝亀11年) or 780, the guardian shrine of Akishino-dera Temple. It is located west of Akishino-dera Temple.

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(Wednesday 17 March) "Nan-mon" (南門; the South Gate), Akishino-dera Temple, 757 Akishino-cho, Nara City

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(Wednesday 17 March) Akishino-dera Temple, 757 Akishino-cho, Nara City

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(Wednesday 17 March) Akishino-dera Temple, 757 Akishino-cho, Nara City

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(Wednesday 17 March) Akishino-dera Temple, 757 Akishino-cho, Nara City

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(Wednesday 17 March) "Hon-do" (本堂; the main hall: a national treasure), Akishino-dera Temple

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(Wednesday 17 March) "Hon-do" (本堂; the main hall: a national treasure), Akishino-dera Temple

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(Wednesday 17 March) Daigen-do" (大元堂; the Hall dedicated to Daigensui-myo-o [大元帥明王; Skt. Atavaka]), Akishino-dera Temple

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(Wednesday 17 March) Daigen-do" (大元堂; the Hall dedicated to Daigensui-myo-o [大元帥明王; Skt. Atavaka]), Akishino-dera Temple

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(Wednesday 17 March) "Kaisan-do" (開山堂; the Founder's Hall), viewed from Daigen-do" (大元堂; the Hall dedicated to Daigensui-myo-o [大元帥明王; Skt. Atavaka]), Akishino-dera Temple

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(Wednesday 17 March) "Kaisan-do" (開山堂; the Founder's Hall), viewed from Daigen-do" (大元堂; the Hall dedicated to Daigensui-myo-o [大元帥明王; Skt. Atavaka]), Akishino-dera Temple

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(Wednesday 17 March) Stone memorials, Akishino-dera Temple, 757 Akishino-cho, Nara City

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(Wednesday 17 March) Stone stupa, Akishino-dera Temple, 757 Akishino-cho, Nara City

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(Wednesday 17 March) "Sho-ro" (鐘楼; the Belfry), Akishino-dera Temple, 757 Akishino-cho, Nara City

        

Copyright (c) 2006-2010 Eishiro Ito.  All rights reserved.