NaraTravel

Gaze up at the Vairocana Buddha in the Great Buddha Hall first thing in the morning, and try the famous pillar-crawling challenge as a parent and child

About this spot

A major Kegon Buddhist temple founded by imperial decree of Emperor Shomu during the Nara period, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the 'Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara.' Upon entering the Great Buddha Hall—the world's largest wooden structure—a Vairocana Buddha statue standing approximately 15 meters tall gazes down upon you, and both children and adults cannot help but gasp at its size. Inside the hall is a pillar with a hole the same size as the Great Buddha's nostril, and the famous 'pillar-crawling' experience—believed to bring good health and fortune if you pass through it—is hugely popular with children. At the South Great Gate, impressive 8-meter-tall Kongō Rikishi (Vajra Guardian) statues by master craftsmen Unkei and Kaikei greet visitors with their imposing presence. Deer gather along the approach, making this the quintessential sightseeing spot where you can experience history and interact with animals all at once.

Tips

About a 20-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station, or about 5 minutes on foot from the Nara Kotsu Bus 'Todai-ji Great Buddha Hall/Kasuga Taisha' stop. The Great Buddha Hall is far less crowded right after opening, before school groups and tour buses arrive—highly recommended. The pillar-crawling experience can develop long lines, so attempt it early if you want to. The deer along the approach target paper bags and maps, so keep your belongings securely closed. The hall interior has few steps and is easy to navigate with a stroller.