Kami no Mido (Inner Sanctuary)
temple
Kami no Mido (Inner Sanctuary)
上御堂
Overview
Kami no Mido dates from the Kamakura period (1185–1333). According to temple records, Prince Toneri (676–735), son of Emperor Tenmu (631–686), commissioned the original building, which collapsed in the year 989, possibly in a typhoon. Inside the hall is a statue of Shakyamuni, the historical Buddha, flanked by two bodhisattvas (enlightened beings one rank below Buddhas) dating from the Heian period (794–1185). The hall has a set of Four Heavenly Kings (Shitenno), statues from the Muromachi period (1136–1573), which protect the Buddha. This hall and its treasures are open for viewing from November 1 to November 3 every year.
Local tips
Remove shoes before entering any hall. Look for a shoe rack at the entrance. Carry a plastic bag for your shoes if none is provided.
Practical info
- Japanese name
- 上御堂
- Nearest station
- Kintetsu-Nara Station (5 min walk)
- Reservations
- not required
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