"Cradle of Japanese Culture, Arts and Crafts" Nara by Maxiediva

A World Heritage Site, Todaiji Temple enshrines the Great Image of Buddha (Daibutsu) and is the largest wooden structure in the world. And I'm not kidding!! There is no proper superlative to describe the colossal size of this imposing structure and it's vast area. Stones from 3 different countries were brought in to pave the entrance to the temple - heavy with Buddhist influence, from India, China and Korea. Twice a year, a little wooden door is opened from where you can get a glimpse of the Great Buddha's golden face. The current temple is 2/3rd the original size after fire destroyed it twice. Worth getting are some temple omamori and the temple wind chime.

stood the test of time

Another World Heritage Site, the 5-storied pagoda is a famous symbol of Nara. A great prayer hall is currently being built, which is taking longer than necessary and will rival Sanjusangendo in Kyoto. (perhaps?). Nara deers roam about freely, and the temple structures each have a story to tell. Recommended to get a Goodwill Student Guide at the Tourist Info office to show you around Nara. It's more exciting when you know the reasons the structures were built. Kofukuji Temple has the friendliest temple priests around. If you're into collecting temple stamps and blessings, Kofukuji have a range of very nice yet cheap stamp books, and they'll stamp one for you for free. Nice, ne!

reverence and awe-inspiring

yes, another World Heritage Site structures in Nara. They actually have a total of 7 WHSites! The uniqueness of this Shrine are the stone lanterns that lined the pathway to the shrine. Apparently, there are more than a 1000 stone lanters. No one could be sure. It was said that if you guessed correctly, you will be very lucky. And if you didn't, you will be unlucky. So no one wanted to risk getting it wrong. (they're too many anyways) It's a beautiful structure with vermillion pillars, Kasuga style roof and hanging lanterns. Surrounded by green groves, it's pretty eerie when it rains. Deers roam freely in the enclosure and the kasuga Shrine Garden supposedly has more than 900 varieties of plants. That's quite a botanical garden. Serenity at its best! (except for the long winding walk and the steep steps to to get there!)

• Pros:worth the visit
• Cons:only for temple buffs
• In a nutshell:Home of World heritage sites