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The main entrance to the temple is inside the Nandaimon, or Great Southern Gate. The Nandaimon was rebuilt in the 13th Century and features two guardian Kings (Nio), each more than 8 meters tall. Once you go through the gate, the sweeping horned roof of the Daibutsuden comes into view. The Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall), houses the largest bronze statue in Japan. The 15 meter tall, blackened figure sitting on a lotus throne depicts Rushana, later known as Dainichi Nyorai(The Cosmic Buddha). This statue is commonly know as the "Great Buddah of Nara" and is perhaps the city's most famous attraction. The completion of the statue was an extraordinary achievement. After several attempts at casting the statue failed, it was finally dedicated in 752. The Emperor Shomu, his wife the Empress Komyo, and the reigning Empress Kogen all gathered to dedicate the statue by "opening his eyes". An Indian priest stood on a specially built platform and painted in the eyes, using a gigantic brush. From the end of this brush were hung colored strings which ran down to the VIP's below, enabling them to take part in the ceremony as well. Also in attendance were local monks, numbering in the hundreds, as well as ambassadors from China, India, and more distant places. The guests brought a dazzling assortment of gifts. Many of them have been preserved in the Shoso-in treasury, along with the original paint brush.
The Todai-ji Buddha has not had an easy go of it over the years. In the ninth century, an earthquake knocked over his head. Then on two separate occasions, first in 1180, and again in 1567, his right hand was melted in a fire. Each time, the statue was repaired, but, as a result of these disasters, little remains of the original figure. However, the Great Buddah is stilll impressive for its sheer size and for the technological victory at the time of its original construction. As you walk around the hall, don't be shocked to see people attempting to squeeze through a hole in one of the rear support pillars. The Japanese believe that if one is successful in squeezing through, they are guaranteed a place in Heaven. As you leave the Daibutsuden, take a minute to look at the Octagonal Lantern at the bottom of the steps. It is one of the oldest treasures in the temple dating from the founding of Todaiji. The lantern is supported by a post enscribed with an excerpt from a Buddhist text discussing the merits of lighting lanterns.
Located to the west of the Daibutsuden section is the Kaidanin. The Chinese high preist, Ganjin, established the Kaidanin in 754 as Japan's first and principle ordination hall. The hall was rebuilt in the Edo Period and includes stautes of 8th Century representations of the Four Heavenly Kings. These small clay figures are beautifully carved. They each stand on a different fiendish beast, while protecting a small buddha in a wooden pagoda. Behind the Daibutsuden is the Shoso-in which, at first glance, looks like a log cabin on stilts. It was constructed in the 8th century to store the treasures of Todai-ji. For whatever reason, the building has preserved them in perfect condition. Now the treasures of Todai-ji are kept in a specially designed concrete storehouse. |
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