Toshodaiji was founded in the year 759 by Ganjin, a Chinese priest who was invited to Japan by the emperor in order to train priests and improve Japanese Buddhism.

"Toshodai" is Japanese for "invited from Tang China", which refers to Ganjin. His influence in the introduction of Buddhism to Japan was monumental, and his arrival and teaching at Toshodaiji were important stages in that process.

Toshodaiji's main hall (kondo) was re-opened in late 2009 after being renovated over a period of almost ten years, during which the building was dismantled and reconstructed. The temple's lecture hall (kodo) was moved to Toshodaiji from the Nara Imperial Palace, and is now the only surviving building of the former palace.

Lecture Hall (Kodo)

Ganjin's Grave

The Miedo, a hall which stores a famous wooden statue of Ganjin, is also located on the temple grounds. The statue, however, is displayed to the public only once a year for a few days around June 6, the anniversary of Ganjin's death.

There are a number of small paths on the temple grounds that cut through thick overhanging foliage. Ganjin's grave is located at the end of one of these paths, and the surrounding nature gives the area an atmosphere of serenity. The temple also has a large bell from the Heian period, a chapel, sleeping quarters once used by monks in training, and a small treasure house that charges a small entrance fee.

Buddhism
Temples
History: Nara Period

Todaiji Temple
Kofukuji Temple
Kasuga Taisha
Nara National Museum
Nara Park
Naramachi
Shin-Yakushiji Temple
Mount Wakakusayama
Isuien Garden
Yoshikien Garden

Horyuji Temple
Yakushiji Temple
Toshodaiji Temple
Heijo Palace

Wakakusa Yamayaki
Omizutori