Toshodai-ji, the Resting Place of Ganjin

Upon entering the building, you will see the main building of the temple, kondo. It was built around the 8^th century by Ganjin’s disciple Nyoho. Though it has needed some considerable repairs since its construction, it is the only kondo from Nara Period (710~794) and still exists today.

Of course the inside of Kondo is very interesting too. The Kondo contains a statue of Rushanabutsu at its center with Senju-Kannon on the left and Yakushi Nyorai on the right. Those statues are quite big and are very unique. The statue of Rushanabustu dates back to the 8^th century and the statue of Yakushi Nyorai is from the 9^th century. Indeed all of these statues are very precious and labeled Japanese National Treasures.

Behind of Kondo is the kodo. The kodo was formerly used as awaiting room for government officials in Heijyokyo Palace back in the Nara Period and was moved to Toshodai-ji in 760. Since this is the only one remains from Heijyokyo Palace, this building is considered so valuable. Also, this one of the original buildings dating back to when Ganjin built Toshidai-ji.

Near the kodo, there are two little storage houses: the Kyozo and the Hozo.

While you might think storage units are of any real importance, actually these are Japanese National Treasures too! In particular, the Kyozo predates Toshodai-ji. This makes the Kyozo is the oldest storage house in Japan!

Ganjin died in Toshodai-ji at the age of 76. Documents say he died in meditation facing west, the direction of the Pure Lands. His body is entombed in Toshodai-ji. Many people visit his grave to pray and I think this clearly shows how much respect the Japanese people have for him.