Encountering the Great Buddha across 1,300 years of history

Walking through Nara Park, you naturally find yourself drawn to a place while playing with the deer. That place is Todai-ji Temple. Here lies one of Japan's most iconic national treasures, the **Great Buddha of Nara (Rushana Buddha)**. The moment I stepped into the Great Buddha Hall, I was left speechless by its sheer scale. ⸻ 🏛️ History of Todai-ji and the Great Buddha (Quick Overview) • Founded: 8th century (752) • Purpose of construction: Built under Emperor Shomu's orders to pray for national stability and the spread of Buddhism • The Great Buddha: Approximately 15 meters tall and weighing over 250 tons! It represents Rushana Buddha, a central figure in Buddhism. Despite enduring numerous repairs due to fires and earthquakes over the centuries, the Great Buddha still quietly watches over visitors, leaving them in awe. ⸻ 🙏 Highlights • The **right hand of the Great Buddha, showing the "Fearlessness Mudra"**, symbolizes the removal of fear • The "pillar hole" in the Great Buddha Hall is said to grant wishes and is very popular✨ • The serene atmosphere of the temple grounds and the carefree nature of the deer coexist in perfect harmony.