Taj of the East

We came for the cherry and plum tree blossoms without realizing what a diverse cultural treat was in store for us. You can come anytime of the year as there is just so much to digest in terms of history and culture. Another example today was that of going to Todaiji Temple. When I first set my eyes upon it I was completely taken aback by it's enormity. My first reaction was that it reminded me of the Taj Mahal in terms of shear grandeur in it's size. Until recently, it was the largest wooden structure in the world. Considering it was built long before any real modern engineering ingenuity, it is indeed an iconic tribute to the Shogun warriors who ruled at the time. It has been rebuilt three times since it's original construction in 743, with the most current update in 1709. It is an amazing piece of construction that took over 10 years to complete, and is home to the world's largest bronze cast Buddha which took three years to complete. It's construction bankrupted the government which led to another war and the government being relocated to Kyoto at the time.
  
Next up was the Kasugataisha Shrine. We are greeted by deer who are free to roam the city and parks of Nara. Unique in it’s own right, this shrine’s notoriety is due to the thousands of lanterns that line the walls and walkways. Twice a year the lantern’s are lit in ceremony but for effect they keep a room open in darkness to illustrate the magic of the occasion. The blossoms continue to bloom in abundance as the cool weather preserves their beauty and prolongs their lifespan.

Sayonara