Latest news with #GreatBuddha
Los Angeles Times
4 days ago
- Los Angeles Times
Nara: Step Into Ancient Japan, Where Deer Roam Free
Step back in time to Nara, Japan's captivating first permanent capital (710-794 CE). Just a short train ride from Kyoto or Osaka, this serene city offers a unique blend of ancient history and natural beauty, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a glimpse into Japan's foundations. Nara preserves its legacy with remarkable integrity, boasting a whopping eight UNESCO World Heritage sites, and is famously home to over a thousand sacred, free-roaming deer. Nara's establishment as the capital in 710 CE marked a pivotal moment, laying the groundwork for Japan's enduring culture. Modeled after China's Tang dynasty capital, its meticulously planned grid layout reflected a period of centralized government and immense cultural growth. This era was a crucible for early Japanese Buddhist art, literature, and political structures. The heart of the city is Nara Park, where over a thousand wild deer, believed to be messengers of the gods, roam freely and even bow for treats – you can even buy special crackers! Within the park stands Todaiji Temple, home to the colossal Great Buddha (Daibutsu). This 15-meter bronze statue is housed inside the Daibutsuden, the world's largest wooden building – a truly awe-inspiring sight that reflects the ambition of 8th-century Japan. Nearby, Kasuga Taisha Shrine is Nara's celebrated Shinto shrine, known for its thousands of stone and bronze lanterns that line its paths and illuminate the grounds, especially during the special festivals in February and August. Founded by the powerful Fujiwara clan, it highlights the intertwining of politics and religion. Don't miss Kofuku-ji Temple, distinguished by its towering five-story pagoda, a long-standing symbol of Nara and a key institution of the Fujiwara dynasty. Explore Naramachi, the old merchant district, with its preserved Edo-era buildings, quaint shops and local eateries. It's perfect for sampling kakinoha sushi (sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves) and finding unique souvenirs. Nara offers a unique journey into Japan's ancient soul, providing tangible connections to its formative past amid charming, free-roaming deer. It's an unforgettable destination where history truly comes alive.
Yomiuri Shimbun
17-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yomiuri Shimbun
Tottori: Japan-Themed Sand Exhibits on Display at Museum; Nara Buddha, Oda Nobunaga Sculptures Put on Display
The Yomiuri Shimbun A reproduction of the Great Buddha in Nara is seen on display at the Sand Museum at Tottori Sand Dunes in Tottori. TOTTORI — A museum in Tottori that exhibits sculptures made from sand is holding its first exhibition themed on Japan. The Sand Museum in Tottori Sand Dunes, titled 'Travel Around the World in Sand: Japan,' features 19 elaborate sand sculptures depicting the country's history and culture, including those related to mythology, the warring states period and postwar reconstruction period. The exhibition, the 16th since the museum opened, is being held to mark the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo in Osaka. The Yomiuri Shimbun A sculpture of the god Susanoo no Mikoto fighting with Yamata no Orochi Twenty sculptors from 12 countries, including Russia, Turkey and Italy, created the works using about 3,000 tons of sand. The models include a sculpture of the god Susanoo no Mikoto fighting with Yamata no Orochi, an eight-headed serpent, and a reproduction of the Great Buddha in Nara. Sculptures depicting feudal warlord Oda Nobunaga (1534-1582) and citizens working on postwar reconstruction against the backdrop of the Atomic Bomb Dome also are on display. There are also works faithfully recreating Mt. Fuji and Himeji Castle. The exhibition is held from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week until Jan. 4 next year. Admission is ¥800 for adults and ¥400 for elementary, junior high and high school students.
