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Ancient Japanese Buddhism site
Category

Sightseeing

Age requirement

All ages

Message from worldpitou

Todai-ji's Nigatsu-dō, or February Hall, is a renowned building located in Nara, the ancient capital of Japan. It stands as part of important structures within the complex of Tōdai-ji temple, and holds great significance to Japanese Buddhism. Founded by a monk named Sanetada in 752, it was later introduced as an annual rite of repentance dedicated to the eleven-faced Bodhisattva Kannon, since the year 760. The service has come to be known as Shuni-e, held on the second month of the traditional lunar calendar. Omizutori, which means taking sacred water, is the popular name of this ceremony, and the main hall of Nigatsu-dō is a designated National Treasure. Currently, the hall houses two "secret Buddhas" that are not publicly shown. Every March, it remains a destination of reverence for visitors seeking historical richness and spiritual reflection.

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