Gallery: Nara

Nara was the first capital of Japan from 710 to 794. During this period, Buddhism became firmly established within Japan under the patronage of court nobles, who sponsored magnificent temples and works of art, many of which have survived to this day. With its wooded hills, temple parks, and some of the world's oldest wooden buildings, this ancient city remains a symbol of tranquility. Todai-ji, the largest wooden building in the world, houses the Daibutsu (Great Buddha), the world's largest bronze Buddha which was cast in 752.

Great Buddha in Todai-ji Temple