Visit Nara

Saidaiji, lierally the “Great Western Temple," was one of the seven great temples of Nara, a counterpart to Todaiji, and mentioned in the "Tale of Genji." Repeated fires have reduced it in size. The key attractions are the Shakyamuni Buddha in the main hall and the fierce Aizen Myo-o sculpture (only on view in spring and autumn) in the Aizen hall. The temple holds a tea ceremony in April called o-chamori, featuring a huge tea bowl that requires two hands and some strength to hold.