Visit Nara

Established in AD645, this is one of Japan’s oldest Buddhist temples. It is famous with test takers who pray for good results. The temple houses a striking seven meter tall statue of Monju Bosatsu, Buddha of wisdom. Riding a lion and accompanied by four attendants, it was carved during the Kamakura period by master sculptor Kaikei. This temple is also the birthplace of Abe no Seimei, a kind of Heian era “Merlin” said to have psychic powers for calming ghosts. As a result, many people come here for protection from bad luck and evil spirits.

A small lake with a pavilion is dedicated to Benzaiten, deity of good luck and music. The grounds are easy to stroll, without steps or slopes and there is free Wi-Fi throughout. Entrance to the main hall and Ukimido Pavilion includes matcha tea, sweets and an amulet. In spring, the lake is ringed with flowering cherry blossom trees, and in early autumn, cosmos flowers bloom.