Todai-ji, or the ‘Great Eastern Temple’, is a stunning shrine located in Nara, Japan. Built in the 740s, it was the largest building project ever situated within Japanese soil, representing the power, prestige, and piety of the imperial house of Japan. Its main attraction, a colossal bronze Buddha figure known as Daibutsu, is a 17th century replacement and is revered within Japanese culture with a yearly cleaning ceremony taking place each August. In 1180, Todai-ji was destroyed by the Taira clan but was restored by the victorious Minamoto clan. Today, visitors can explore this illustrious site including its famous Great South Gate, complete with two Eight Meter tall wooden Guardian Kings!