Buddhist temple
Tōshōdai-ji
唐招提寺（とうしょうだいじ）
Nara, Nara Prefecture
The head temple (sōhonzan) of the Ritsu school in Gojō-chō, Nara, a temple opened by Ganjin Daiwajō. At the center of the Kondō is enshrined its principal image, a seated statue of Rushanabutsu, with Yakushi Nyorai and Senju Kannon to the left and right.
English pages are the site’s own translations of its Japanese pages. The sources cited are in Japanese. 日本語で読む
Prayers associated with this place
Principal object of worship: seated statue of Rushanabutsu (Kondō)
History and things to know
According to the official guide, it began when Ganjin Daiwajō, who had come to Japan, spent five years at Tōdai-ji, was then granted the former residence of Prince Niitabe, and opened a training place for studying the precepts in Tenpyō Hōji 3 (759). The Kondō is said to have been completed in the late 8th century through the efforts of his disciple Nyohō, and the Nara-period Kondō and Kōdō (lecture hall) survive today.
Introduced by this site, based on materials from the shrine or temple and public bodies.
Related kami and buddhas
Before you visit
Opening hours, access, areas open to visitors, and events can change. Please check the latest guidance from the shrine or temple itself before you go.
Official website of the shrine or temple (may be in Japanese)
Sources (in Japanese)
- 唐招提寺「御祭神・御本尊・由緒の公式案内」（2026-10-21 確認）
This site is independent of the shrines, temples, and other websites mentioned. No partnership or endorsement is implied.