Daibutsu-Den (Nara)

Nara is the one historic spot, where it is said the royal history of the island began. And some there are still some signs of its greatness to be witnessed today. For one, take Daibutsu-Den, which is the biggest wooden house on the planet. And the funny thing is, this version, which was rebuilt in 1709 is only two thirds the size of the original structure!

Nara is the one historic spot, where it is said the royal history of the island began. And some there are still some signs of its greatness to be witnessed today. For one, take Daibutsu-Den, which is the biggest wooden house on the planet. And the funny thing is, this version, which was rebuilt in 1709 is only two thirds the size of the original structure!

Within the hall is the 16 m high Daibutsu, which is one of the biggest bronze Buddha, in the world of course, what did you have in mind? To give an idea of the measures: 437 tons of bronze were used and an additional 130 kilo gold. It was built in 746 and historians believe that it was created as a charm against smallpox, which killed many Japanese back in the days.

But the charming part is the one behind the Buddha. There is large column with a hole inside, which shall have the exact measures of one of the nostrils of the Buddha. It is said: who can squeeze himself through that very hole is assured to be enlightened. Now loads of school kids try to slide through the gap and make joyous noises. I wouldn’t recommend to try it yourself, if you are above 1,5 meters in height, though. It is not such a great death in the nostril of a Buddha, is it? Daibutsu is not to be missed while you are situated in Nara-Koen. When you reach this park in Nara, you should follow the signs that will guide you to Daibutsu.

I would also imply that you go during the festive season of the new year, hence people dress up in their traditional clothes.

Links: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daibutsu

http://www.onmarkproductions.com/html/big-buddha-japan.shtml

written by wil6ka on 2008-08-21 #places #culture #history #location #architecture #nara