Exploring Buddhist Statues in Nara 1 day

The National Treasure “Seated Dainichi Nyorai” at Enjoji

Enjo-ji is a renowned temple located in the eastern part of Nara City, along the Yagyu Kaido. Although it is quite inconvenient to access, it is a hidden gem known to those in the know. It is not a popular tourist spot, making it perfect for those who wish to immerse themselves in a tranquil and serene environment. The history of Enjo-ji is said to date back to either 756 AD, when it was founded by the Chinese monk Kyo-taki, a disciple of Ganjin, under the imperial edict of Emperor Shomu and Empress Koken, or to the Jogan period of the Heian era. However, it is generally believed that the temple was established in 1026 AD during the mid-Heian period, when a monk known as Myozen Shonin enshrined an eleven-faced Kannon.

A highlight of the temple is the seated statue of Dainichi Nyorai, a National Treasure, considered to be the debut work of Unkei in his twenties. This statue, which attracted much attention when exhibited at the Tokyo National Museum in 2017, can be viewed up close in the newly completed Sooden Hall.

The National Treasure “Nine Amida Buddhas” at Joruriji

The location is somewhat inconvenient to visit, as it requires taking a bus from the nearest station. This renowned temple is designated as a National Treasure, featuring the main hall (Amida Hall), a three-storey pagoda, nine Amida Nyorai statues, and statues of the Four Heavenly Kings. The temple’s name is derived from the Pure Land of Yakushi Nyorai, known as the “Joruri World,” enshrined within the inner sanctum of the three-storey pagoda.
The main hall is elongated to house the nine Amida Nyorai statues. During the Heian period, there were reportedly over 30 such halls centred around Kyoto, but all have been lost, with Joruri-ji being the only one remaining in its original form.