Toshodai-ji Temple

Toshodai-ji Temple was founded in 759 A.D. by Rev. Ganjin, a Chinese priest on the present site. This was the first seminary in Japan for the Ritsu sect priesthood specializing in the observance of the commandments. In the main edifice (Tempyo Period), which gives an impression of grandness, are seen three big dry lacquer statues. The lecture hall was originally part of the Imperial Palace of Nara, was donated to this Temple. In a quiet grove in the compounds, the grave of Rev. Ganjin reminds visitors of the brave but sad story of the great blind priest who contributed much to the Tempyo culture.

The Temple was undergoing reconstruction and is expected to be completed in 2009.





Toshadai-ji Temple
Toshadai-ji Temple from Tales of Genji

Exiting Todai-ji Temple

After you exit this magnificent temple, the visitor is greeted by perhaps the tackiest tourist shop's outside of Tokyo. Deer poop candy is a popular sale item. The candy itself is quite good and the poop theme is for giggles.

Looking back at the main entrance gate to Todai-ji Temple.

Deer poop candy


Does this resemble South Park?

WELCOME!! to COOL JAPAN

Still regret not getting the Ninja outfit.

Authentic Deer poop

Deer poop candy. Actually quite good.

Todai-ji Temple - Protector Gods (most famous Nio in Japan)

Protector God Agyo - Omega or End of Time

Protector God Ungyo - Alpha or Beginning of Time

Background on Ungyo and Agyo

Todai-ji Temple

Todai-ji Temple

Guardian watching over Todai-ji and its precincts.




Looking out from Todai-ji facing middle gate to Daibusu-den.

Todai-ji Temple

A 1 to 50 scale model was done in the early 20th century. The original temple was larger and had to 100 meter pagoda's on either side of it. The pagoda's were at the time, the tallest structures in the world outside the pyramid's of Egypt. The pagoda's were destroyed by an earthquake.





This pillar with a hole in the base is considered good fortune if you can fit through it (enlightenment in your next life). The hole is the same size as one of the nostril's as the Daibustu of Todai-ji.

Inside Todai-ji Temple

Todai-ji Temple

The Great Buddha Hall was constructed in 752 to celebrate 200 years of Buddhism being brought to Japan. Todai-ji is the largest wooden structure in the world and is regarded as a national treasure in Japan as well as being on the list of World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. The deer that roam the grounds freely are considered messengers of the gods.










Daibutsu of Tōdai-ji