The History and Charm of Daianji Temple: From the Foremost of the Seven Great Temples of Nara to a Temple for Cancer Protection
About Daianji Temple
Daianji Temple is a Shingon Buddhist temple of the Koyasan sect located in Daianji 2-chome, Nara City, Nara Prefecture. As one of the Seven Great Temples of Nara, it played a central role in Japanese Buddhism during the Nara period, flourishing as a major temple alongside Todaiji and Kofukuji. Currently, it is a place of worship attracting many visitors from all over Japan as a temple for cancer protection.
The principal image is the Eleven-Faced Kannon Bodhisattva, and it is said to have been founded by Emperor Jomei. It is a distinctive temple without a mountain name, and its history is arguably synonymous with the history of Japanese Buddhism itself.
The Founding and Historical Transformation of Daian-ji Temple
The History of the Temple’s Founding Begins with Kumagori Shōja
The founding of Daian-ji Temple dates back to 617 AD (the 25th year of Emperor Suiko’s reign), when Prince Shōtoku established Kumagori Shōja in Nukatabe, Heguri District (present-day Nukatabe, Yamato-Kōriyama City, Nara Prefecture) as a place of prayer for “peace throughout the land and the well-being of all people.” This is considered one of the oldest temples in Japan and was built as part of Prince Shōtoku’s policy to promote Buddhism.
At the behest of Prince Shōtoku, Kumagori Shōja was further developed into a full-fledged temple during the reign of Emperor Jomei. This monastery became the starting point for the later development of Daian-ji Temple.
Development of Kudara-Odera Temple
In the 11th year of Emperor Jomei’s reign (639 AD), Kumagori Shoja Temple was relocated to Toichi District in Asuka (near present-day Kibi, Sakurai City) and renamed Kudara-Odera Temple. This relocation is thought to have been for the purpose of constructing a larger temple complex.
The name Kudara-Odera Temple is believed to originate from the deep involvement of monks and engineers from Baekje in the temple’s construction. Japanese Buddhism at the time was strongly influenced by Baekje and other parts of the Korean Peninsula, and Kudara-Odera Temple was a symbolic representation of this influence.
From Takechi-Odera Temple to Daikan-Odera Temple
Around the 2nd year of Emperor Tenmu’s reign (673 AD), Kudara-Odera Temple was relocated again to Takechi District (near present-day Daikan-cho, Kashihara City) and became known as Takechi-Odera Temple. Furthermore, during the reign of Emperor Tenmu, it was renamed Daikandaiji, strengthening its character as an official temple for the protection of the nation.
Daikandaiji was a large-scale temple built by Emperor Tenmu with the hope of national peace and the prosperity of Buddhism, and it boasted one of the largest temple complexes in Japan at the time. Archaeological excavations have confirmed a vast temple area of approximately 220 meters east-west and 310 meters north-south.
Relocation to Heijo-kyo and Completion of Daian-ji
With the relocation of the capital to Heijo-kyo in 710 AD (Wado 3), Daikandaiji moved from Fujiwara-kyo to its current location in Heijo-kyo. With this relocation, the temple’s name was also changed to Daian-ji, marking the beginning of Daian-ji’s history to this day.
The Daian-ji temple complex in Heijo-kyo was completed during the Tenpyo era (729-749). Its vast size, approximately 320 meters east-west and 560 meters north-south, made it one of the largest temple complexes among the seven great temples of Nara. The central complex included the main hall, lecture hall, and east and west pagodas, and was a comprehensive Buddhist facility complete with monks’ quarters and a refectory.
Flourishing in the Nara Period: As the Foremost of the Seven Great Temples of Nara
Center of National Buddhism
Daian-ji Temple during the Nara period was a central figure in Japanese Buddhism, alongside Todai-ji and Kofuku-ji. Among the seven great temples of Nara (Todai-ji, Kofuku-ji, Daian-ji, Gangō-ji, Saidai-ji, Yakushi-ji, and Hōryū-ji), Daian-ji held a particularly important position.
The temple housed numerous monks and functioned as a center for Buddhist research and education. At its peak, it is said that more than 1,000 monks were dedicated to their studies, making a significant contribution to the development of Buddhist studies in Japan.
Connection to the Consecration of the Great Buddha of Todai-ji Temple
Daian-ji Temple played a crucial role in the consecration of the Great Buddha of Todai-ji Temple ceremony held in 752 AD (Tenpyo Shoho 4). The Indian monk Bodhisena who presided over the consecration was a high-ranking monk residing at Daian-ji Temple, and many monks from Daian-ji participated in the ceremony.
This event demonstrates Daian-ji Temple’s role as a center of international Buddhist exchange. Besides Bodhisena, many monks from Tang China and India visited Daian-ji Temple, fostering active exchange of Buddhist culture.
A Diverse Group of Monks
Daian-ji Temple housed not only Japanese monks but also numerous monks who had come from China (Tang Dynasty), India, Vietnam, and other countries. These international monks dedicated themselves to translating Buddhist scriptures, studying Buddhist philosophy, and transmitting knowledge in fields such as medicine and astronomy.
Particularly famous are high-ranking monks such as Doji, Dokyo, Zengi, and Kinso. After returning from Tang China, Dōji spread the teachings of the Hossō sect at Daian-ji Temple. Dōkyō later became a Dharma King and wielded significant political influence.
Decline and Transformation from the Heian Period Onward
Fire and Decline of the Temple Complex
Entering the Heian period, Daian-ji Temple gradually began to decline. A great fire in 847 (Jōwa 14) destroyed many of its main buildings. Although reconstruction attempts were made afterward, it was never possible to restore its former scale.
From the mid-Heian period onward, changes in aristocratic society and the rise of new Buddhist sects (Tendai and Shingon) caused the ancient temples of Nara to gradually lose influence. Daian-ji Temple was no exception, and its size decreased along with the reduction of its temple lands.
Difficulties and Attempts at Revival in the Middle Ages
From the Kamakura period to the Muromachi period, Daian-ji Temple faced further difficulties. Due to damage from war and economic hardship, maintaining the temple complex became difficult. However, it never completely disappeared, and the Dharma continued to be preserved, albeit on a smaller scale.
During the Edo period, it underwent a degree of restoration under the protection of the Tokugawa Shogunate. During this time, the main hall and other major buildings were rebuilt. The temple also came to belong to the Koyasan Shingon sect, which it remains to this day.
Present-day Daianji Temple: A Temple for Cancer Protection
Origin of the Cancer Protection Belief
Present-day Daianji Temple is known nationwide as a temple for cancer protection. The origin of this belief lies in its deep connection with Emperor Kōnin.
Emperor Kōnin spent time at Daianji Temple during his time as Prince Shirakabe before his enthronement, and ascended to the throne at the unusually old age of 62. It is believed that the Emperor enjoyed a long life due to his healthy lifestyle at Daianji Temple, and this has led to the belief in healing illnesses and protection against cancer.
Kōnin-e and Sasazake Festival
Every year on January 23rd, the Kōnin-e memorial service for Emperor Kōnin is held, and the Cancer Prevention Sasazake Festival takes place simultaneously.
At this festival, sasa-zake (sake made from bamboo leaves), which Emperor Kōnin is said to have enjoyed at Daianji Temple, is served to those receiving prayers. Bamboo leaves are believed to have antibacterial properties and have long been used as a symbol of health and longevity. Many worshippers from all over the country visit this event to pray for protection against cancer and recovery from illness.
Prayers and Amulets for Recovery from Illness
Daianji Temple accepts prayers for recovery from illness and protection against cancer throughout the year. During the prayers held in the main hall, prayers for recovery from illness are offered to the principal image, the Eleven-Faced Kannon Bodhisattva.
Cancer prevention amulets are also available, and many worshippers purchase them for their family and friends. This amulet is cherished not only for its role in preventing illness, but also as a source of encouragement for those battling illness.
Daianji Temple Grounds and Highlights
Main Hall and the Principal Image, Eleven-Faced Kannon
The current main hall was rebuilt during the Edo period, and houses the principal image, a standing statue of the Eleven-Faced Kannon Bodhisattva. This Kannon statue is believed to be from the early Heian period and is an important object of worship.
Many other Buddhist statues are also enshrined in the main hall and are open to the public. In particular, the group of Buddhist statues that convey the style of the Tenpyo period are valuable cultural assets that tell the story of Daianji Temple’s long history.
Historical Sites Remaining on the Temple Grounds
Although the vast temple complex of yesteryear has been lost, foundation stones and earthen platforms from the Nara period remain on the grounds, giving a glimpse into its former grand scale. The temple grounds are designated as a national historical site, and archaeological excavations are continuously being conducted.
To the south of the grounds are the remains of the former South Gate, and the remains of pagodas have been confirmed to the east and west. These remains are important traces that allow us to appreciate the scale of Daian-ji Temple during the Heijo-kyo period.
Treasure Hall and Cultural Properties
Daian-ji Temple houses numerous valuable cultural properties passed down from the Nara period. In the Treasure Hall, visitors can view Buddhist statues, scriptures, and ancient documents.
Of particular note are the Buddhist statues from the Tenpyo period. Excellent works, including the standing statues of Yangliu Kannon, Sho Kannon, and Fuku Kensaku Kannon, are all designated as Important Cultural Properties. These statues possess the rich volume and elegant expression characteristic of Tenpyo sculpture, demonstrating the high level of Buddhist art during the Nara period.
The Four Seasons of the Temple Grounds
The grounds of Daian-ji Temple display beauty in every season. Cherry blossoms bloom in spring, and the fresh greenery is vibrant in early summer. Autumn leaves color the grounds, and in winter, one can feel the weight of history in the tranquility.
In particular, every October, the “Bamboo Memorial Service” is held, and many bamboo lanterns are lit throughout the temple grounds. This fantastical sight has become a quintessential autumn tradition at Daianji Temple.
Cultural Properties of Daianji Temple
National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties
Daianji Temple possesses the following important cultural properties:
Important Cultural Properties (Sculptures)
- Eleven-faced Kannon Standing Statue (Principal Image, Early Heian Period)
- Willow Kannon Standing Statue (Tenpyo Period)
- Holy Kannon Standing Statue (Tenpyo Period)
- Amoghapasha Kannon Standing Statue (Tenpyo Period)
- Four Heavenly Kings Standing Statues (Tenpyo Period)
Important Cultural Properties (Ancient Documents)
- Daianji Temple Property Register (Inventory of Temple Property from the Nara Period)
- Daianji Temple Garan Engi and Ryuki Property Register (Important Historical Documents Recording the Temple’s History and Property)
These cultural properties are valuable legacies that convey the long history of Daianji Temple and the richness of Buddhist culture in the Nara period.
Designated Historic Site
The former grounds of Daianji Temple are designated as a national historic site. The designated area is where the layout of the temple complex from the Nara period can be largely confirmed, and ongoing archaeological excavations are still being conducted.
These investigations have revealed the locations and sizes of the main hall, lecture hall, pagoda, and other structures, gradually shedding light on the true nature of large temples from the Nara period.
Access to Daianji Temple
Access by Public Transportation
By Train and Bus:
- From JR Nara Station or Kintetsu Nara Station
- Take a Nara Kotsu bus bound for “Daianji,” “Shiratocho,” or “Sharp-mae”
- Get off at the “Daianji” bus stop and walk for approximately 8 minutes
- Travel time: Approximately 20 minutes from the station
- Walking from Kintetsu Nara Station
- Approximately 2.5 km south, approximately 30 minutes on foot
- Enjoy a stroll through the streets of Nara along the way
Access by Car
- Approximately 15 minutes from the Kizu IC on the Keina-Wa Expressway
- Approximately 20 minutes from the Horai IC on the Daini-Hanna Expressway
- There is a free parking lot for visitors on the temple grounds (approximately 20 regular cars)
Visiting Information
Visiting Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:00 PM)
Closed Days: December 31st (for New Year’s preparations)
Admission Fee:
- Adults: 400 yen
- High School Students: 300 yen
- Junior High School Students: 200 yen
- Elementary School Students: 200 yen
Special Viewing: Special viewings are held in spring and autumn, and cultural properties that are normally closed to the public may be displayed.
Attractions around Daianji Temple
Nearby Temples and Shrines
Many of Nara’s representative temples and shrines are located around Daianji Temple:
- Todaiji Temple: Approximately 30 minutes on foot, approximately 15 minutes by bus
- Kofukuji Temple: Approximately 25 minutes on foot, approximately 12 minutes by bus
- Gangoji Temple: Approximately 20 minutes on foot
- Kasuga Taisha Shrine: Approximately 35 minutes on foot, approximately 20 minutes by bus
Visiting these temples and shrines together will allow you to gain a deeper understanding of Nara’s Buddhist culture.
Nara Park Area
Heading north from Daianji Temple, you’ll reach the Nara Park area. Here, you can interact with deer while exploring the cultural properties of Nara, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Heijo Palace Site
Approximately 2km northwest of Daianji Temple lies the Heijo Palace Site. This was the center of the capital during the Nara period, when Daianji Temple flourished. You can visit the reconstructed Suzaku Gate and Daigokuden Hall. A visit to the Heijo Palace Site is highly recommended for understanding the history of Daianji Temple.
Daianji Temple and the Seven Great Temples of Nanto
The Seven Great Temples of Nanto refer to the seven major temples that existed in and around Heijo-kyo during the Nara period. These include Daianji Temple, Todaiji Temple, Kofukuji Temple, Gangoji Temple, Saidaiji Temple, Yakushiji Temple, and Horyuji Temple (some theories include Toshodaiji Temple instead of Daianji Temple).
Daianji Temple has a particularly long history among these seven temples and held a leading position in the early Nara period. Each temple, while possessing its own distinct characteristics, functioned as a center of national Buddhism and contributed to the development of Japanese Buddhist culture.
Today, these temples are important hubs for Nara tourism, each with its own unique charm. A journey visiting the seven great temples of Nara, starting from Daian-ji Temple, will be a valuable experience that allows you to truly feel the history of Japanese Buddhism.
Annual Events at Daianji Temple
Main Annual Events
Daianji Temple holds various Buddhist services and events throughout the year:
January 1st-3rd: Shushō-e (New Year’s Buddhist service)
January 23rd: Kōjin-e (Cancer Prevention Bamboo Sake Festival)
March: Spring Equinox Service
May: Hana Matsuri (Buddha’s Birthday Celebration)
August: Obon Festival
September: Autumn Equinox Service
October: Bamboo Offering (A mystical event where bamboo lanterns are lit throughout the temple grounds)
December 31st: New Year’s Eve Bell Ringing
By participating in these events, you can experience firsthand the history and present state of faith at Daianji Temple.
Summary: The Value of Daianji Temple as Told Through 1400 Years of History
Daianji Temple is an extremely important temple in the history of Japanese Buddhism, boasting a history of over 1400 years, from the time of Prince Shotoku to the present day. It developed while changing its name and location, becoming known as Kumagori Shoja, Baekje Daesa, Takaichi Daesa, and Daikan Daesa, and flourished as the foremost of the seven great temples of Nara in Heijo-kyo.
During the Nara period, it served as an international center for Buddhist research, playing a significant role in the consecration of the Great Buddha of Todai-ji Temple, and attracting many international monks, including the Indian monk Bodhisena. Although it declined due to fires and the changing times, its Buddhist teachings have been preserved without interruption.
Currently, it attracts new followers as a temple for protection against cancer, providing hope and peace to many. While the magnificent temple complex of yesteryear is gone, the remaining cultural assets and historical sites convey the richness of Buddhist culture during the Nara period.
Visiting Daianji Temple is a journey through the history of Japanese Buddhism and an opportunity to reflect on the meaning of faith in the modern age. When you visit Nara, be sure to stop by Daianji Temple and experience its rich history and tranquil atmosphere.
