y The Nigatsu-do Hall z
The Nigatsu-do Hall was founded by priest
Jichu in 752. This was rebuilt in 1669
because of the fire in 1667. This was selected
as an important cultural asset in
1944.
The Shunie Ceremony is held from March
1st to 14th every year. This period is in
February of the lunar calendar. Nigatsu
means February, so we call this Nigatsu-do.
This Hall was built in the same year
when the eye-opening ceremony for the Great
Buddha Image was held. The original structure
was burnt down in 1667, and the
present building is a faithful reconstruction
on the same site. It was built in
order to house a statue of The Eleven-Headed
Kannon. The front of this building is
built as an over-hanging stage so that we
can appreciate an entrancing view of the
old capital from there.
The Nigatsu-do Hall is famous for its
water drawing and torch ceremonies.
However, its principal image is not widely
known. People, including priests of the
Todai-ji Temple, are strictly prohibited
from entering the sanctuarity where the
statue is enshrined. The exception is monks
who are selected to attendthe Shunie Ceremony.
They are allowed to enter the secret place
and see the image.
Todai-ji Map
Nara Map