Nishi no Kyo

Two UNESCO World Heritage Sites

The Nishi no Kyo area has two UNESCO World Heritage temples, Toshodaiji and Yakushiji, within 10 minutes walk, allowing visiting both in a half to full day. Together with Todaiji and Kofukuji in Nara City, it forms Nara's most important Buddhist heritage zone.

Toshodaiji

Toshodaiji, founded in 759 by Ganjin, a high monk from Tang Dynasty China. The Golden Hall (National Treasure) is representative Nara period wooden architecture, with the annual spring "Ganjin-ki" ceremony featuring special display of the Ganjin Wajyo Seated Figure (National Treasure).

Ganjin's Life Story

Ganjin's life story of attempting to cross from Tang China to Japan six times, overcoming 12 years and the ordeal of going blind to finally arrive, is one of Japanese Buddhist history's most moving stories. His seated figure is enshrined in Toshodaiji's Miei-do hall.

Surrounding Area Strolling

The Nishi no Kyo area is just minutes from Kintetsu Nishinokyo Station. Surrounding sites include Emperor Suinin's mausoleum and the birthplace of Sugawara no Michizane, making it an optimal area for deep learning of Nara history.