When visiting Japan there is a place I think everyone should visit and experience for themselves. Located a short train ride from either Kyoto to the north or Osaka to the west, Nara is easily accessible to people visiting this region of Japan. I chose to stay the night here, but I think you can easily make this a day trip from either of those other cities.
Nara is one of the most culturally significant places in Japan, and is home to the Todai-Ji temple. This temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site, one of the largest wooden buildings in the world, and also the headquarters of the Kegon School of Buddhism. It is also home to the world’s largest bronze statue of the Buddha Vairocana, which I learned is known as the “Cosmic Buddha” or “Universal Buddha” and not the historical figure.
When approaching the temple grounds, you must first enter Nara Park. This lovely forested park is inhabited by many friendly deer who do not fear humans and will even bow to you if you give them food.
After a short walk through a section of the park, and across the road, you will come to a very large wooden gate. While walking through the gate, you will notice two very large warrior deities who are said to guard the temple from evil spirits. They are quite intimidating to see, but the craftsmanship is also quite impressive.
You will then enter the main temple grounds, which are expansive and mostly open except for a few smaller pagodas.
At the end of the main path is the massive wooden temple.
As I walk up to it, I can hear the angelic sounds of children singing. As I walk through the massive doorway I am immediately struck by a wave of deep emotions and goosebumps all over my body. The massive Buddha looks so beautiful and peaceful, and the sounds of the singing and the scent of incense make the air of this ancient hall thick with spiritual energy. I am overcome by the energy of the place, I and can't help but be moved to tears. This intense feeling is something I would feel in only a few other places around the world, and in the moment I knew there was something special here.
As I walk around the large temple trying to pull myself back together, I find myself amazed by all of the beautiful artifacts, and I am impressed by the attention to detail in the inscriptions and designs.
On a lighter note, there was a large pillar with a hole at the bottom that kids were trying to fit through. This was quite comical to watch and apparently would bring good luck to anyone who could squeeze their way through.
Upon leaving the temple, I soon found myself in a strange and mysterious forest. There were no other people around, but I couldn’t help but feel a presence watching and following my every step. It didn’t take long before I came across what appeared to be a gravestone, and I knew it was time to make my way back to the main area of the park.
I took some rest in Nara Park, and was befriended by some kind deer.
All photos were taken by myself. I hope you enjoyed my post. :)