Toshodai-ji

Toshodai-ji was founded in 759 by Ganjin (Jianzhen), the revered Chinese monk who attempted the perilous sea crossing to Japan six times over twelve years, losing his eyesight on the journey, to transmit the Buddhist precepts and ordination rituals. The Kondo (Golden Hall) is considered the finest and most complete example of Nara-period temple architecture, with its stately row of entasis columns reflecting continental Tang Dynasty influence. The Kodo (Lecture Hall) is the only surviving building from the original Nara imperial palace, having been relocated and converted for temple use. The temple grounds are beautifully maintained with moss gardens and lotus ponds that bloom spectacularly in summer. A special annual opening of the Mieido hall in June reveals a dry-lacquer portrait statue of Ganjin, designated a National Treasure.